The PS5 Slim’s disc drive will require an internet connection

The new PlayStation 5 model, also known as the PS5 Slim, will require an internet connection to pair the device’s optical drive.

Sony’s new PlayStation 5 model, unofficially nicknamed the PS5 Slim will require an internet connection in order to pair an optional optical drive to the device, according to the box of the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 bundle, as first reported by VGC.

The accessory will require an internet connection in order to pair the optional additional optical drive to the device. This is likely due to security reasons, and to ensure that games on disc drives are not able to be intercepted between the console and the connector.

On the box, it states the following: “Internet connection required to pair Disc Drive and PS5 console upon setup“. Since the bundle in question uses a bundle that contains the new PS5 with a disc drive, it’s likely that this check will be required for all new PS5 models with a disc drive in the future.

Preservation concerns

Due to the new PlayStation 5 model’s requirement for internet verification, there is some concern that over time, the server that certifies the pairing process might not always be live. In the long term, this is not a good sign for those who wish to use the console for the years to come.

You should expect this digital pairing and verification process to be reflected in the digital-only model, if you choose to purchase the standalone optical drive, too.

It remains to be seen whether Sony chooses to change their stance on digital pairing for the optional drive. Though, it’s likely that this could be bypassed in a future software update. The console is rumored to be released in mid-November.