Sony says the backlash over its decision to stop manufacturing physical game discs has had no measurable effect on its business so far. The company’s position matters because it indicates Sony is unlikely to reverse course despite protests, boycott calls and concern among players about ownership and physical media.

CFO Lin Tao said a large share of content sales is already digital, so Sony does not expect ending disc production to harm revenue, although it recognises players’ attachment to physical releases. Sony plans to continue supplying boxed games in North America with download codes inside, while players are planning a “blackout” protest from 23 to 30 August; Sony is nevertheless forecasting a record fiscal year.