Microsoft has announced that they will be shutting down their Xbox Music free streaming service from the 1st of December. Users of the service will be offered a 30-day free trial of their paid service, Xbox Music Pass.
The company has said that the reason they are shutting down their Xbox Music free streaming service is so that they can focus on their paid service, Xbox Music Pass. You can see a statement from Microsoft below.
Effective December 1, 2014, the free Xbox Music streaming feature currently available on Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and over the Internet will be discontinued in all countries where it is offered.
We are focusing Xbox Music to deliver the ultimate music purchase and subscription service experience for our customers. With Xbox Music Pass, you have access to millions of songs on your PC, tablet, Xbox, phone, and the web. Download music for offline listening and create playlists that automatically sync across all your devices.
Why Microsoft is Shutting Down Free Streaming
The decision to shut down the free streaming service is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to streamline its music offerings and focus on providing a more robust and feature-rich experience through Xbox Music Pass. By eliminating the free tier, Microsoft aims to invest more resources into enhancing the paid service, ensuring that subscribers receive the best possible experience.
The Xbox Music Pass offers several advantages over the free streaming service. For instance, subscribers can enjoy ad-free listening, higher-quality audio, and the ability to download music for offline playback. Additionally, the service provides curated playlists and personalized recommendations, making it easier for users to discover new music that suits their tastes.
Impact on Users and Alternatives
For users who have been relying on the free streaming service, the transition may be challenging. However, Microsoft is offering a 30-day free trial of Xbox Music Pass to help ease the transition. This trial period allows users to explore the premium features and decide whether the paid service meets their needs.
While some users may choose to subscribe to Xbox Music Pass, others might look for alternative free streaming services. Popular options include Spotify, Pandora, and Apple Music, all of which offer free tiers with certain limitations. These services provide a wide range of music and features, making them viable alternatives for those who prefer not to pay for a subscription.
Moreover, the discontinuation of the free streaming service highlights the growing trend in the music industry towards subscription-based models. As more companies shift their focus to paid services, users can expect to see continued improvements in the quality and variety of music offerings.
You can find out more details about the Microsoft Music free streaming service being shut down over at Microsoft at the link below.
Source Microsoft
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