According to insider rumors, Microsoft is reportedly planning a new version of the Xbox for 2019. It is said to be a slim version without a disc drive for a lower price.
What is the rumor about? Insiders who are allegedly familiar with the operations at Microsoft claim to have learned that a new Xbox will be coming soon. However, this console will definitely NOT be the new next-gen console codenamed Scarlett.
New Xbox One S: Rather, it is supposed to be a new version of the slim version Xbox One S, which is expected to be released in early 2019.
The S version has always been cost-effective, and this new version is supposed to lower the price even further. However, an important feature will be missing: the Blu-ray disc drive!
The cheapest Xbox of all time?
How can an Xbox work without a drive? Instead of loading and playing games via the optical drive, the new Xbox S is expected to run games only through the internet and hard drive storage.
What will happen to my old games that I only have on disc? According to the insider, Microsoft is expected to offer a program where you can take your discs to selected Microsoft partners and receive a digital code. You can then redeem it online and play your game without the disc.
Why is Microsoft doing this? The main reason for eliminating the optical drive is said to be the high costs. It is expected that without the disc drive, one could save about 100 dollars on the price. Therefore, the new console would be sold for under 200 US dollars, a real bargain.
Ideal for beginners: The ideal target audience for the new Xbox is likely to be players who do not yet own an Xbox and want to step into the world of console gaming with this device. These players would not have stress exchanging their old games and could get a good console for a low price.
What about the next-gen console Scarlett and the disc drive? It is currently unknown whether Microsoft’s planned new flagship will have an optical drive. However, Microsoft will surely issue a statement on this soon. Scarlett is expected to be released no sooner than 2020.
What do you think of this development? Is an optical drive mandatory for a console, or is it time to part ways with this old technology in the age of game streaming and online gaming and fast hard drives?
