Sony's PS5 Slim Models Require Internet Connection for Disc Drive Pairing

Sony is introducing redesigned, smaller PlayStation 5 models in November, featuring an optional Ultra HD Blu-Ray Disc Drive. Gamers who want to transition from digital to discs later will have to pair the drive with the Digital Edition PS5, but there's a catch: users adding a Blu-ray drive later on will need an internet connection for pairing.

This requirement has raised concerns about the potential limitation on playing games without an internet connection, affecting the enjoyment of physical copies. Users liken this move to DRM on the optional disc drive and worry about preservation and playability when Sony may eventually shut down servers.

Sony's effort to ensure compliance with copyright laws and prevent piracy is likely behind this internet pairing requirement. It might impact third-party repairs, although users may only need to connect to the internet once, during initial setup. It's unclear if this requirement will change in the future.

Sony has not commented on the matter as of the publication date.