A failure in the recent Xbox One update has sparked concerns regarding the future viability of console hardware

Older models of the original Xbox One are encountering issues when attempting to update their firmware, rendering the consoles unusable, according to Eurogamer's Digital Foundry.

Tests conducted by Digital Foundry on three Xbox One consoles revealed that all units were unable to update their firmware, even though they were running versions from 2017 and 2018. The consoles encountered errors when connected to Xbox Live, both online and offline via USB.

Users who have recently bought sealed, "as new" Xbox One units are also facing similar problems. These issues prevent access to Xbox Live, digital purchases, and the operation of games requiring online verification.

Digital Foundry suggests that this problem might only affect consoles with firmware from 2018 or earlier, noting that the 2016 Xbox One S models do not seem to be impacted.

"We have informed Microsoft about the issue. While we are confident that a fix will come, this situation casts a shadow over the long-term usability of consoles dependent on internet connectivity," Richard Leadbetter, technology editor, commented.

Leadbetter expressed concerns about the implications for hardware and game preservation, as well as ownership rights. He emphasized that a functional console becoming inoperable is a significant warning about future devices that rely on online connections.

"Consider the scenario decades from now," Leadbetter added. "While I can revive an Atari VCS from decades ago and play it without issues, the same assurance cannot be given to modern consoles that depend on continued support from platform holders."