Microsoft has introduced a new feature that allows users to convert their physical Xbox One game discs into digital copies. This capability, which requires inserting the disc into a console's drive, is part of the company's broader efforts to preserve and digitize gaming content. The idea of uniquely identifying discs dates back to 2011, when Microsoft explored features like digital gifting and the ability to exchange physical discs for digital versions at retail stores. Some of these early plans were leaked, while others remained confidential for over a decade. The recent feature is made possible by the inclusion of serial numbers on discs, which now enables the conversion process. The Xbox One was initially designed to require an internet connection to support Microsoft's vision of digital game sharing, but this requirement was later removed due to user feedback. The new disc-to-digital feature could be a step toward true digital ownership of games, allowing users to retain access even if they no longer have the physical disc. Sony, which plans to stop producing PlayStation discs by 2028, may find it difficult to replicate this feature unless it had already included similar metadata on its discs. Microsoft has also been focused on preserving older games through its backward compatibility program, which allows many titles from the original Xbox and Xbox 360 eras to run on newer consoles. The company is also expanding access to these games on PC and is developing Project Helix, a future Xbox that could support every game ever made for the platform. However, challenges such as licensing agreements and technical limitations may prevent all Xbox One discs from working with the new digital conversion feature. In addition to gaming, Microsoft is holding a major event in San Francisco on October 7th, where it will discuss the role of local AI in shaping the future of PCs. The event will feature Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Windows chief Pavan Davuluri, and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang. Topics may include RTX Spark PCs and the Microsoft Surface Laptop Ultra. Meanwhile, the Gates Foundation has pledged $1 billion to improve AI access in education, healthcare, and agriculture over the next two years, and Microsoft has released an AI code of conduct emphasizing that "people matter more than AI."