The newest iteration of the PlayStation 5 doesn’t have a disc drive. Or, to be more precise, it has a detachable disc drive that’s either sold separately or bundled with the console. This new model, often referred to as the PS5 Slim, significantly changes how physical media interacts with the console, sparking discussions about whether or not Sony can, or rather, will, change its mind in the future and change a key feature.
The core functionality of the detachable disc drive is somewhat akin to a peripheral device, such as a controller. Its initial setup requires an internet connection for registration, but once completed, users can use the drive offline without any more check-ins. This process is necessary for the system to recognize and authenticate the new hardware, a procedure driven by compliance requirements under the DMCA, particularly for Blu-ray players. It’s a critical step to ensure the use of official, genuine hardware, possibly to prevent piracy or unauthorized modifications.
One of the most significant features discovered by YouTubers like Mystic and TronicsFix is Sony didn’t lock the PS5’s disc drives to a single console. Initially, there were concerns that pairing a disc drive with a console was permanent. However, real-world testing has confirmed that users can switch the disc drive between different consoles. The process is user-friendly. All it requires is an internet connection for the drive to register with a new console. This flexibility is a relief for users who might need to replace their drives or wish to use their drive with multiple consoles.
Despite the initial ease of setup and use, there are long-term considerations. A significant concern is the future of game preservation and access, particularly when Sony eventually discontinues support for the PS5 online servers. Once these servers are offline, it may become impossible to register new drives, rendering them unusable. However, it’s hoped that Sony might address this potential issue in the future, possibly with a firmware update that would bypass the need for online registration.
As for the new PS5 Slim model, Sony is gradually introducing it into the market, with plans for it to replace the current PS5 model as the standard model in time. This rollout strategy isn’t uncommon in the console market, or tech industry, in general. Most companies often revise and update their incumbent models by replacing them with new and improved versions. The detachable disc drive, priced separately, offers flexibility to those who initially opt for the digital-only model but later decide to have physical media capability.
Sony’s approach to the detachable disc drive in the new PS5 Slim model reflects an understanding of modern gaming needs and consumer concerns. While it aligns with current digital rights management practices, it also shows a degree of flexibility and user-friendliness. However, the long-term implications for game preservation and access remain an unaddressed topic.
Consumer laws for consoles protect physical media copy owners from Sony locking PS5’s detachable disc drives to a single console in the future. But, it’s still nice to know that Sony didn’t even think about testing if this will be reinforced or not.
In the meantime, those interested in getting a PlayStation can go home with a bundle that comes with a free copy of a controversial first-party Xbox title, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. The best-selling title has drawn flack due to several reasons as it becomes the worst-rated entry in the Call of Duty franchise. It remains to be seen if Microsoft will respond with upcoming Xbox variants.
