Microsoft announces big changes to Xbox One policies

Mere weeks after first announcing the Xbox One and its strict policy and DRM programs, Microsoft has today revealed an updated plan for the next console that relaxes some of the rules.

Don Mattrick, President of Interactive Entertainment Business at Xbox, has posted a detailed blog with the new changes. "Since unveiling our plans for Xbox One, my team and I have heard directly from many of you, read your comments and listened to your feedback. I would like to take the opportunity today to thank you for your assistance in helping us to reshape the future of Xbox One," he commented.

An internet connection will not be required to play offline Xbox One games. After a one-time system set-up with a new Xbox One, you can play any disc based game without ever connecting online again. There is no 24 hour connection requirement and you can take your Xbox One anywhere you want and play your games, just like on Xbox 360.

Trade-in, lend, resell, gift, and rent disc based games. There will be no limitations to using and sharing games, it will work just as it does today on Xbox 360. The disc will be required to play retail titles, while they will also be available for same-day digital download purchase.

Xbox One games will be playable on any Xbox One console - there will be no regional restrictions. Kinect will still be required, and there is no change in announced price point of $499.

"We appreciate your passion, support and willingness to challenge the assumptions of digital licensing and connectivity. While we believe that the majority of people will play games online and access the cloud for both games and entertainment, we will give consumers the choice of both physical and digital content. We have listened and we have heard loud and clear from your feedback that you want the best of both worlds."

The Xbox One was heavily criticized for its used game and online requirement policies for weeks leading up to and after the reveal of the console. This big change in policy comes just days after E3 2013, where the company continued its apparent push to defend the plans they have created.

Xbox One is expected to launch late this year, going head to head with Sony's PlayStation 4.

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