Microsoft announced that Xbox Live, the connectivity service that has accompanied its consoles since the first Xbox, will be renamed Xbox network (styled in lowercase). The change was first reported by The Verge and later confirmed by Microsoft.
Rollout observed by some players
Players on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One began posting on social media that they could already see the new name in certain locations as of Monday, the 22nd. Beta program participants have reported seeing the updated label on service panels and other interfaces.
Company explains reason for rebrand
A Microsoft spokesperson told The Verge the renaming aims to make the distinction clearer between Xbox network — the basic, free online service available to every console owner — and Xbox Live Gold, the paid subscription that provides privileges such as online multiplayer and free monthly titles.
The company said the update to “Xbox online services” in Microsoft’s Terms of Service refers to all Xbox services that include features like cross-saves and friend requests, and that the language change seeks to distinguish that service from the Live Gold subscription. Microsoft added there are no changes being made to the service experience.
Background and scope
Xbox Live launched in 2002, enabling online play on the original Xbox through a paid model, and the service has continued, with changes, across subsequent console generations. This rebranding marks the first name change for the feature in nearly 20 years.
Next potential step: free-to-play access
Microsoft appears to be considering removing the requirement to create an Xbox network account to play free-to-play games such as Fortnite. The company has not provided details on the timing or implementation of that change.
Source: The Verge
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