Xbox Could Soon Let You Turn Your Physical Games Into Downloadable Files

Microsoft is testing an Xbox program called Disc2Digital that lets players turn compatible game discs into digital licenses on their accounts. A report from The Verge indicates that Xbox staff began internal tests earlier this year after “enable Disc2Digital” references appeared in the Xbox PC app code in May.

When you use Disc2Digital on a disc, you’ll receive a digitized version of the game, much like what you’d receive if you purchased that title online. You can then install and play the game without keeping the disc in the console, provided you’re running under the same account that redeemed it. The game stays tied to disc ownership, so passing on or selling the disc affects access to the converted copy once its new owner actually uses it.

Disc2Digital could be related to Xbox’s console-in-progress, codenamed Project Helix, which likely won’t have a disc drive. An option like Disc2Digital would let users continue using their physical games on new hardware without having to repurchase. That’s particularly poignant given Sony’s newly announced plan to end physical disc releases for new PlayStation games starting in 2028: Many gamers think consoles will lean fully into digital access in the coming years.

Microsoft hasn’t officially announced Disc2Digital or any details about its launch, region, or pricing. The company could change, expand, or cancel the system before a public rollout. Until then, we’ll keep an eye out for more news about internal tests or code references indicating that a new game conversion tool is on the horizon.