Microsoft Leverages Decades of Hidden Metadata to Secure Xbox Game Ownership

By Tom Warren · The Verge · 2026-09-17

The Verge reports that Microsoft is launching a disc-to-digital service, enabling users to convert physical Xbox One media into digital licenses. This transition relies on unique identifiers embedded in game discs as far back as fifteen years ago. While the move helps safeguard c

The Verge reports that Microsoft is launching a disc-to-digital service, enabling users to convert physical Xbox One media into digital licenses. This transition relies on unique identifiers embedded in game discs as far back as fifteen years ago. While the move helps safeguard c