The Xbox One's upcoming disc-less iteration is currently tagged "Maverick," an internal codename for the project used at Microsoft. As first detailed by Thurrott, the console will reportedly rework the existing entry-level Xbox One S, further cutting manufacturing costs in pursuit of a lower price. It's one of the most ambitious shake-ups in Xbox history, cutting a once-essential component amid growing services and digital purchases.
Xbox Maverick will likely pack near-identical internals to the Xbox One S, including a potentially similar exterior, though forgoing the optical disc drive. Further non-essential gaming components could be cut in the process, although ideally not comprising the console's core gaming offerings. Microsoft has already experimented with condensing disc-less Xbox One S hardware into server blades for its Project xCloud streaming service, which may aid Maverick development.
Alongside Xbox Maverick, Microsoft will reportedly debut two new programs aimed at streamlining digital purchases. The first is a "disc-to-digital" program, which will help existing Xbox users fully transition into the digital ecosystem. The pairs with a "digital attach" system targeted towards new Xbox buyers getting started with online services.
Microsoft's rumored disc-to-digital process is proving promising, shaking up digital adoption with a new trade-in program. The initiative will allow Xbox users to deposit existing disc-based titles at select retailers, in return for a digital license. It makes a move into digital easier, cheaper, and might sway those undecided. In the long-term, this would convert more players to the storefront, increasing digital adoption ahead of the next major console refresh.
Details have also surfaced on a checkout service for new console buyers, attaching their purchases directly to the console. Codenamed Roma, the project could allow Microsoft to pre-load consoles with services like Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass, further reducing the setup of a clean console.
Without official word from Microsoft, details on Xbox Maverick and its availability are scarce. Current rumors indicate a release as early as spring of 2019, though should be taken lightly, given the pre-release nature of the project. Likely positioned as a low-cost entry to the Xbox One family, don't expect a grand reveal either.
With efforts focused on reducing the cost of Xbox One, reports indicate the console will drop to $199, or lower. That's a third off the existing Xbox One S, likely opening the console to a broader pool of casual gamers.
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