Microsoft Shuts Down Movies & TV Store on Xbox, Windows

Without prior notice, Microsoft has abruptly discontinued the ability to purchase movies and TV shows on Xbox consoles and Windows devices.

The change was confirmed through a newly published Q&A, released as the updates went live. Users were quick to notice the removal, with the Xbox Store still displaying movie and TV sections—now entirely empty. These sections are expected to be fully removed in a future system update.

Previously purchased content remains accessible. You can continue watching films and shows you've already bought, and your Xbox can still play physical media like DVDs and Blu-rays. However, you can no longer expand your digital collection, transfer purchased content to other platforms, or receive refunds for existing purchases if you wish to rebuild your library elsewhere.

Microsoft has not provided a clear explanation for the decision. However, the shift aligns with broader industry trends, as consumers increasingly favor subscription-based streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ over digital ownership.

For users who prefer to own their media, physical formats such as DVDs and Blu-rays remain a viable, albeit less convenient, alternative—free from reliance on online services or connectivity.

As of now, attempting to access the Movies & TV section on Xbox results in an error, underscoring the sudden nature of the shutdown.

In its official response, Microsoft directs users to third-party transactional services available on its platforms: “The Xbox and Microsoft Store on Windows have other entertainment services that offer the latest home entertainment releases,” the company states. “The following transactional services are available today: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home, among others.”

The move has drawn criticism due to its immediate implementation and lack of advance communication. This change follows closely after Microsoft’s recent round of layoffs, which affected approximately 4% of its workforce—over 9,000 employees—adding to ongoing concerns about the company’s strategic direction in consumer entertainment.