Another new feature of the Xbox One games console unveiled to the world last night is that Microsoft will now allow one Gold Xbox Live subscription to be shared throughout a household on multiple accounts.
The news follows on from Microsoft discontinuing the Xbox Live Gold Family Pack, which was created to enable families to purchase multiple Gold memberships at a reduced rate.
Enhanced Accessibility for Families
Microsoft’s Phil Harrison explained that now “Anybody who has usage privilege on that machine can use it,” which means that it probably works in a similar way to the assigning accounts to the Gold Xbox Live subscription as within the family option. This new feature is a significant step forward in making gaming more accessible and affordable for families. Instead of purchasing multiple subscriptions, a single Gold membership can now be shared among all family members, making it easier for everyone to enjoy online gaming, streaming services, and other Xbox Live Gold benefits.
This change is particularly beneficial for households with multiple gamers. For example, if a family has three children who all enjoy playing different games online, they no longer need to buy three separate Gold memberships. This not only saves money but also simplifies account management, as parents can now oversee a single subscription.
Compatibility and Future Prospects
Existing Xbox Live Gold memberships will be supported on both older Xbox 360 consoles and the new Xbox One next-generation console. This backward compatibility ensures that current Xbox 360 users can transition smoothly to the Xbox One without losing their existing benefits. It also means that families with both consoles can enjoy the shared subscription across different devices, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Moreover, this move by Microsoft could set a precedent for other gaming platforms. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the focus is increasingly on providing value and convenience to users. By allowing shared subscriptions, Microsoft is addressing a common pain point for many families and setting a new standard for customer-friendly practices.
In addition to shared subscriptions, the Xbox One also boasts several other features designed to enhance the gaming experience. These include improved graphics, faster processing speeds, and a more intuitive user interface. The console also supports a wide range of entertainment options, from streaming movies and TV shows to accessing various apps and services.
Furthermore, Microsoft’s commitment to continuous improvement means that we can expect even more exciting features and updates in the future. The company is known for listening to user feedback and making adjustments accordingly, so it’s likely that the Xbox One will continue to evolve and offer even more value to its users.
The introduction of shared Xbox Live Gold subscriptions is a welcome change that will benefit many households. By making it easier and more affordable for families to enjoy online gaming and other Xbox Live Gold benefits, Microsoft is enhancing the overall user experience and setting a new standard for the industry. Whether you’re a current Xbox 360 user or planning to upgrade to the Xbox One, this new feature is sure to make your gaming experience more enjoyable and convenient.
Source: The Verge
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