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The disc-read error affecting a number of Xbox systems is not a hardware defect, Microsoft has told Develop.
The disc read error “is tied to a change in the disc-reading algorithms in a recent software update”, the company said.
“It is not specific to older or newer versions of Xbox 360.”
Microsoft is releasing a new firmware that is said boasts new anti-piracy measures, whilst giving developers around 1GB more space for their content on each disc.
Yet “a small number” of machines are not compatible with this solution.
Microsoft’s pre-emptive action has been swift. Yesterday the firm announced it would replace any machines that are not compatible with the new firmware.
Affected users will receive a new Xbox 360S and 12 months of Xbox Live Gold, all for free, the company said.
Microsoft has not clarified why a “disc-reading algorithm” issue affects a certain number of machines.
The company said it is able to detect the issue over Xbox Live and is “proactively reaching out to customers that may be impacted to replace their console”.
“Any Xbox 360 owners receiving this error are encouraged to contact us at www.xbox.com/support/contact so we can verify if the console has been impacted,” the firm added.
