Physical Media Is Making a Comeback. The Next Console Generation Might Kill It
The next generation of gaming consoles may signal the end of physical media, despite its recent resurgence. Both Sony and Microsoft are developing new consoles, with the potential for disc drives being a key feature for backward compatibility. As physical media sales, particularly 4K UHD Blu-rays, show growth, the future of disc drives in gaming remains uncertain.
- ▪Sony and Microsoft are working on next-generation consoles, with Sony teasing a future console and Microsoft confirming Project Helix.
- ▪The absence of disc drives in current models raises concerns for collectors and fans of physical media.
- ▪Sales of 4K UHD Blu-rays have increased by 12 percent in 2025, indicating a resurgence in physical media.
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Matt KamenGearMay 29, 2026 6:30 AMPhysical Media Is Making a Comeback. The Next Console Generation Might Kill ItConsoles with disc drives are the easiest way to enjoy all kinds of physical media, but that could end with the next-gen PlayStation 6 and Microsoft's Project Helix.Photograph: Richard A. Brooks/AFP/Getty ImagesCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyWe all know next-generation consoles are in the works. Yes, we're six years into the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, largely due to component shortages and cost spikes from AI demands on the wider tech sector, but Sony has already teased a “future console” in the next few years, and Microsoft confirmed the next Xbox is codenamed Project Helix, likely due in 2028.Gamers can probably expect all…
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