Microsoft isn't just firing employees, it just laid off an app from Xbox and Windows

Microsoft has officially shut down its movies and TV store app on Xbox and Windows PCs, with the company now exiting the streaming video market.

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Jak Connor

Tech and Science Editor

Published Jul 18, 2025 12:34 PM CDT
Updated Jul 18, 2025 12:42 PM CDT

2-minute read time

TL;DR: Microsoft has discontinued new movie and TV purchases on its Xbox and Windows Microsoft Store, though users can still access and download previously bought content via the Movies & TV app. This move reflects Microsoft's exit from competing in the streaming video market against Amazon, Netflix, and Apple.

It seems that employees aren't the only ones at the company being laid off, as Microsoft has fired its movies and TV store on Xbox and Windows platforms.

Microsoft isn't just firing employees, it just laid off an app from Xbox and Windows 651651

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Reports indicate that Microsoft has discontinued the ability to purchase new movies and TV shows from the Microsoft Store on both Xbox and Windows. Users will still be able to access content they have already purchased, with Microsoft confirming users will still be able to download on Windows and in HD max resolution. However, users wanting to access the content will still need to view it through the Movies & TV app on Windows or Xbox. Additionally, Microsoft isn't offering refunds to users.

The Movies & TV app and store emerged in 2015, following Microsoft's launch of the service with Zune Video Marketplace in 2006, and its subsequent replacement with Xbox Video in 2012. This evolution ultimately led to the current Movies & TV app and store. It appears Microsoft doesn't want to compete with the likes of Amazon, Netflix and, particularly, Apple in the streaming video services market. It remains unclear how long Microsoft will keep the Movies & TV servers online.