Xbox One Release Date Arrives: Disc Drive Errors Force Microsoft To Respond

No new gaming console comes without its glitches. After the Xbox One sold more than 1 million units since its Friday launch, some buyers are reporting malfunctioning devices due to defective disc drives.

Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) agreed to replace nonfunctional Xbox One consoles after some users reported that the drives on their systems were unable to scan Blu-ray movies or games, but only a small number of consumers have complained about this malfunction. Despite this issue, the console still went on to exceed 1 million sales in three days. Sony's rival PS4 console launched one week earlier on Nov. 15 and also sold more than 1 million consoles within the first 24 hours of its launch. And the system only hit shelves in North America, and has yet to release in many major market around the world, notably Europe.

“The issue is affecting a very small number of Xbox One customers,” Microsoft said in a public statement. “We’re working directly with those affected to get a replacement console to them as soon as possible through our advance exchange program.” The company also urged customers to call immediately if their Xbox One was experiencing any type of malfunction. “We know that with a hardware launch of this magnitude, customers will have questions. We have many avenues for people to get the answers they need and get back in the game as soon as possible.”

The launch of Sony’s Playstation 4 also experienced some user glitches and errors after its initial Nov. 15 shelf date. Microsoft’s swift response to complaints about the Xbox One is certainly promising, and is reminiscent of how the company lifted many unpopular Xbox One requirements after the console was met with significant backlash in June.

“Customers have the option for us to send a replacement console right away without waiting until they have returned their old one,” a Microsoft spokesperson told gaming site Kotaku. “This means a customer only has to wait a matter of days, rather than weeks to get back up and running.”

Which system will outsell the other during the upcoming holiday season? Only time will tell. The Playstation 4 will hit shelves in Europe, Australia and New Zealand on Friday, right as the holiday shopping frenzy ensues. Which system are you planning to purchase? Leave a comment below.