Sony's Official Transition Timeline
Sony stated in a blog post that the decision aligns with how most players now access games, and existing or upcoming releases face no disruption from the policy.
The company noted it will continue focusing resources on preferred access methods for its audience.
GTA 6 Digital Release Details
GTA 6 is cited as one of the year's major titles moving to a purely digital format, though retailers will sell a physical edition that functions as a code-in-a-box copy.
This follows years of reports showing PlayStation owners strongly prefer digital purchases over physical editions.
Console Hardware and Store Changes
Sony and Microsoft already offered disc-free console versions in 2020, and the PS5 Pro lacks a drive by default though one can be added separately.
The next-generation PlayStation base model is expected to omit a disc drive to reduce costs, with analysts suggesting a 2028 launch at the earliest.
Sony will also close the PlayStation Store on PS3 and PS Vita platforms.