XBOX CEO Won’t Say If Project Helix Will Be Disc-Less
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma declined to confirm whether the company’s next-generation console Project Helix will feature a disc drive, deflecting the question during a Gamescom 2026 interview while emphasizing that Xbox is developing a “family of devices” for its next-generation platform.
The uncertainty surrounding Project Helix’s physical media support reflects broader industry changes. PlayStation has announced it will stop manufacturing physical game discs by 2028, signaling a major shift toward digital distribution. In response to this industry transition, Xbox is introducing a disc-to-digital program that allows players to claim digital versions of their physical games, currently being tested with Xbox Insiders.
Sharma’s comments indicate Xbox is pursuing a multi-device ecosystem strategy rather than a single console release, with affordability positioned as a key priority for the next generation. This suggests the company may offer hardware at various price points to serve different market segments and consumer needs.
While Sharma’s refusal to clarify Project Helix’s disc-drive specifications leaves the hardware’s exact configuration uncertain, Xbox’s investment in disc-to-digital conversion signals the company is preparing for an eventual transition away from physical media. This aligns with broader industry trends as the gaming market gradually shifts toward all-digital platforms.