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Sony DRM Requires Online Check, Risks Lockout on Dead Battery

5/1/2026

33 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Sony announced a DRM system that requires a one-time online check after purchasing a PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5 game, converting the 30-day offline license into a perpetual one after at least 15 days, matching the 14-day refund window.
A dead CMOS battery can block the check, potentially locking users out, while Sony gave no reason for the timer or CMOS issue.
Analysts suspect the DRM aims to curb refund-policy exploits.

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Story summary

Sony announced a DRM system that requires a one-time online check after purchasing a PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5 game, converting the 30-day offline license into a perpetual one after at least 15 days, matching the 14-day refund window.
A dead CMOS battery can block the check, potentially locking users out, while Sony gave no reason for the timer or CMOS issue.
Analysts suspect the DRM aims to curb refund-policy exploits.