If you were one of the unlucky few to pick up a shiny new Xbox One over the weekend, only to get home and see it refuse to read your games and Blu-ray movies, Microsoft has a sweetener to ease the pain whilst you wait for a replacement.
Reports of Xbox One consoles making grinding, clicking and even crunching noises when a disc was inserted became known from midnight last Thursday when the console launched around the world. The concerning sounds are often accompanied by either “disc cannot be read” on the screen, or the console continuing to show “insert disc” as if nothing was in the tray.
Microsoft has now officially acknowledged the fault and says that it only affects a very small number of the total consoles shipped:
“The issue is affecting a very small number of Xbox One customers,” the company said in a statement. “We’re working directly with those affected to get a replacement console to them as soon as possible through our advance exchange program. Rest assured, we are taking care of our customers.”
Some customers have been fortunate enough to get a replacement swiftly via their original retailer, but some have been left with the option of getting in touch with Microsoft to get a replacement through their own replacement plan. In an effort to keep its early adopters content, Microsoft is offering a free download of one launch day game, which of course will allow gamers to at least get some gaming time whilst they wait for their faulty console to be replaced.
Those who have reported the fault to Microsoft will get the choice of Dead Rising 3, Forza Motorsport 5, Ryse: Son of Rome, and Zoo Tycoon, all of which can be downloaded via the Store and will be redeemable using a code provided by Microsoft. And don’t worry, when you do get your replacement console you simply need to sign in with the same Xbox LIVE account in order to re-download your freebie again.
At Gadget Helpline we’ve spoken to many people who picked up an Xbox One early and the disc tray issue has become by far the most prominent, though with the console selling over 1 million units and counting, it’s still not clear just what percentage have the fault. You can check out the other common Xbox One faults and potential fixes right here.