Sony's slimmer and revamped PS5 console will reportedly need an online connection to set up its removable disc drive. As images of the upcoming Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 console bundle, slated for release on November 10, started popping up online, fans have spotted an interesting detail at the back of the box. First reported by the ‘Does it Play' Twitter account, the disclaimer reads: “Internet connection required to pair Disc Drive and PS5 console upon setup” — it's not clear whether it's simply for the initial setup or whether the process has to be repeated every time the drive is removed and attached back.
As per a VGC report, Sony might be required to do an online check-in for verification purposes due to Section 1201 of the DMCA Act, which helps prevent piracy and third-party modifications. This ensures that the detachable disc drive is an official peripheral — whose daughterboard will pair with the PS5 console motherboard. While not explicitly mentioned, upon switching to a new disc drive, players might get asked to pair the two devices again, so a new digital handshake is formed. Game preservationists online have begun raising concerns about servers being offline during the pairing process. Of course, that's not an issue now, but if Sony's servers dedicated toward pairing and verification are taken down years ahead, players won't be able to use their physical media.
Hey, @PlayStation & @cerny, we need to talk!
Internet to install the detachable disc drive for PS5 Slim is a huge blow to preservation and right to repair. Quite frankly, it's unacceptable!
This plus the soldered-on SSD make the PS5 a timebomb from a preservation perspective. https://t.co/GacpULuDu0 pic.twitter.com/IIF1iB2zgV
Bear in mind that the
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