Microsoft has ceased the sale and rental of new movie and TV content as of July 18th, according to updated FAQs on both Xbox and Windows platforms.
While new purchases are no longer possible, existing customers retain access to their previously acquired content on Windows and Xbox devices. The company confirmed that “Existing customers can continue to access their previously purchased content on Windows and Xbox devices,” and “players can continue to play personal videos on Xbox devices. Windows customers can continue to have access to playback and the download functionality.”
Similar to previous moves by Apple and Google, Microsoft’s decision does not include provisions for refunds or content transfers to other services, aligning with its terms of sale. For users seeking new entertainment, Microsoft suggests utilizing “other entertainment services that offer the latest home entertainment releases,” such as “Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home, among others.”
This development follows Microsoft’s earlier announcement this month of approximately 9,000 employee layoffs across its business, including significant reductions within its gaming division.
