Bug Affects Early Xbox One Firmware, Limiting Online Play
Tech analyst Richard Leadbetter from Digital Foundry has highlighted a startup issue in early Xbox One units that could block access to online multiplayer services. The concern was first reported by Eurogamer.
The core problem, according to the report, is that some first-wave Xbox One consoles may fail to update their firmware. If the update cannot be installed, all online features could become unusable, while physical games and the home screen would continue to function as they do today.
Attempts to reset a console to factory settings can render it inoperable, removing even basic capabilities. Offline firmware updates would also be blocked, meaning the device cannot recover through internet or USB connections.
The issue appears to be tied to older firmware released around 2017 and 2018. Newer models, namely the Xbox One S and Xbox One X, show no signs of this bug so far.
Leadbetter noted that a small subset of Xbox owners seems affected, as discussed in specialized forums. Microsoft acknowledged awareness of the problem and confirmed that a fix is being worked on.
The expert argues that this kind of fault is a wake-up call for the game industry. A console can still run, yet its core online functions may be locked behind network requirements. He urged platform holders to establish robust protocols that preserve essential functionality on older devices, regardless of their age or connectivity status.
The situation sheds light on evolving consumer behavior, with some observers noting a rise in demand for other platforms like PlayStation among Russian buyers, which underscores how hardware issues can ripple across the broader market.