The new Xbox may completely abandon discs. Microsoft is reportedly preparing a special program for gamers.

Calendar 5/16/2026

New information has emerged regarding the next generation of Microsoft consoles. According to leaks, a project called Xbox Project Helix may completely abandon the disc drive and focus solely on digital games. However, the company is reportedly working on a solution that will allow players to retain access to their physical game library.

Next-gen Xbox could be completely digital

According to a report from Windows Central, the new Xbox is set to function more like a gaming PC and integrate the console world more closely with computers. One of the biggest changes could be the complete removal of the Blu-ray drive. Such a move wouldn't be a huge surprise, as sales of physical games are steadily declining, and more and more gamers are turning to digital stores and subscription services like Xbox Game Pass. Microsoft is reportedly acknowledging that the future of consoles lies in digital distribution.

The mysterious Positron project could save disc collections

The most intriguing part of the leak is the mention of a project called "Positron". According to unofficial information, Microsoft is working on a system that would allow for the conversion of disc games into digital licences assigned to the user’s account. Details remain very unclear, but the aim of the program would be to enable players to continue using their physical games even on a console without a drive. However, this would likely require additional security measures to prevent copying a single licence among multiple users.

The report also suggests that Project Helix is intended to be more open hardware, closer to computers than previous Xboxes. The leaks also mention the possibility of using an external USB Blu-ray drive for those still using discs. The launch of the new generation Xbox is apparently planned for around the end of 2027, although Microsoft has not yet officially revealed details about the successor to the Xbox Series X.

New leaks suggest that the next Xbox may completely abandon physical drives. However, Microsoft is reportedly working on a Positron system that would allow access to games previously purchased on discs.

source: wccftech

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