Sony's Alleged PS5 Disc Drive Option to Demand Internet Connectivity
Sony's upcoming PS5 model with an optional disc drive, set to release in November, will reportedly necessitate an internet connection
Sony will soon offer a separate Blu-ray disc drive for the PlayStation 5, which can be used with the new all-digital PS5 slim models arriving later this year. However, it seems that the disc drive will need an internet connection when initially connecting it to a console. This information was revealed through images of an upcoming bundle featuring a Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III PS5 console, where the fine print on the console box states that an internet connection is necessary to pair the Disc Drive and PS5 console during setup.
Sony has yet to provide an explanation for the internet connection requirement, but Video Games Chronicle suggests that it is likely in place to prevent piracy and any attempts to modify, replace, or repair the disc drive. Additionally, it ensures that the device can only be used with one console at a time.
This internet connection requirement has raised concerns among some fans regarding game preservation. They worry that in the future, when the necessary servers for verifying the disc drive and console pairing are no longer operational, the disc drive will essentially become useless. While Sony could potentially remove the online pairing requirement through a future update, it remains uncertain if or when this will occur.
The PS5 will introduce a new model in November in the US, featuring a $80 disc drive. Priced at $450, this model offers players who prefer physical discs the option to transition from the current all-digital model. Additionally, an updated version of the PS5 with a built-in disc drive will be made available. Both models come with 1 TB SSDs and have reduced size and weight compared to the original launch PS5. Each version includes a horizontal stand, with the option to purchase a vertical stand separately for $30. SIE senior director of content communications, Sid Shuman, stated in a PlayStation Blog post that this new form factor was developed to meet the changing needs of players and provide greater choice and flexibility.
