XBOX was already exploring several ideas for digital game ownership back in 2011
, by Thibaut
Even before the XBOX One was announced, Microsoft was exploring various approaches to digital games. At the time, the American company wanted to offer its users true digital ownership through a permanent internet connection, though these plans were largely abandoned following the console’s disastrous launch.
In an article published on The Verge, Tom Warren outlined various aspects of this strategy. In 2011, Microsoft wanted to implement measures including digital giveaways, game recycling, and even the ability to trade in physical discs at stores for a digital version. Many of these projects had remained under wraps.
Today, the inclusion of a serial number on discs compatible with Xbox consoles allows the company to implement its feature for converting discs into digital licenses (currently in testing). Thus, this simple decision made 15 years ago has ultimately proven invaluable for the implementation of this system.
Source: theverge.com