According to Patrick Klepeck on GiantBomb, Microsoft is set to announce a complete reversal on its DRM policies for Xbox One today. According to his “multiple sources”, we’re looking at:
- No more always online requirement
- The console no longer has to check in every 24 hours
- All game discs will work on Xbox One as they do on Xbox 360
- Authentication is no longer necessary
- An Internet connection is only required when initially setting up the console
- All downloaded games will function the same when online or offline
- No additional restrictions on trading games or loaning discs
- Region locks have been dropped
If this ends up being true, it would be a huge boon to future Xbox One owners, giving them the “features” they should have had in the first place. Obviously, the Xbox One is still $499. But that pricetag wouldn’t seem so harsh, if it can be offset by the knowledge that your library has value beyond a one-time use. Right of resale is important, after all.