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An all-digital version of the Xbox Series X appears to be nearing a launch, with Microsoft planning to release the refreshed console in the Summer. This isn’t the first time rumors of an all-digital Xbox Series X have popped up. Late last year, Microsoft was going through its trial over the Activision Blizzard acquisition, and documentation containing evidence of an all-digital Xbox Series X was part of the presentations. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer eventually said that plans had changed some, but didn’t deny that those plans didn’t still include a new version of the Xbox Series X.
The refreshed version of the console also had a cylindrical shape to it. This is as opposed to the rectangular design that it has right now. The rumor comes at an interesting time as Spencer recently had an interview in which he talked about rumors of Xbox going disc-less. Rumors of Microsoft’s plans to ditch the disc started surfacing after the all-digital Series X emerged last year.
The good thing for Xbox fans who prefer physical media is that Spencer has confirmed discs are here to stay for the time being. Spencer said that Xbox isn’t getting rid of discs. He did acknowledge, however, that Microsoft follows the consumer. And right now, consumers on Xbox are buying more digital games than physical ones.
An all-digital Xbox Series X could come in white and have a lower price
In addition to the Summertime release date, the new disc-free Series X console is said to potentially come in at a lower price point. As noted by eXputer (via Insider Gaming), Microsoft could end up charging $50 or $100 less for the new version of the console that doesn’t have the disc drive. If the pricing is accurate, it would make sense. Sony offers the digital version of the PlayStation 5 for less money than the disc model. The all-digital release could also have a new colorway, with Microsoft planning to release it in white like the Xbox Series S.
There’s also supposed to be an updated heatsink which would help improve the console’s cooling. Additionally, eXputer says the console is planned to launch sometime between June and July. It goes without saying that these rumors should be taken with a grain of salt. While it is entirely likely Microsoft plans to launch an all-digital Xbox Series X, it hasn’t been confirmed. Until then, these are just rumors. The plan would work well for Microsoft’s strategy, though. Especially if the console was cheaper but offered all the same performance power. The Xbox Series S is a great value. But it is less powerful than the Xbox Series X.