Microsoft has officially shut down its Movies & TV Store on Xbox consoles and Windows PCs, ending nearly two decades of digital media sales. As of July 2025, users can no longer purchase movies or TV shows via the Microsoft Store on these platforms.
You Can Still Watch What You Own For Now
While new purchases are no longer possible, Microsoft confirmed that users will still be able to access and play content they’ve already bought. However, playback must happen through the Movies & TV app on Windows or Xbox. Downloads remain available on Windows devices and will stream in HD resolution at most.
If you’re in the United States and some of your purchases are eligible for Movies Anywhere, you may be able to watch them on supported third-party services but this applies only to select titles.
No Refunds for Purchased Content
In a move that may frustrate long-time users, Microsoft is not offering refunds for previously purchased movies and shows. Instead, the company says it will continue to provide support for playback issues and keep servers online so users can access their media.
The End of a Long Road
Microsoft’s journey in digital video began in 2006 with the Zune Marketplace, later evolving into Xbox Video in 2012, and finally becoming the Movies & TV app in 2015. This shutdown marks the end of that legacy, as Microsoft now fully exits the entertainment content sales space.
What’s Next?
With the closure of the Microsoft Movies & TV Store, users are now expected to rely on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Netflix for their movie and TV needs. Microsoft’s exit mirrors the earlier demise of Groove Music in 2017, indicating a continuing shift toward third-party streaming platforms.
As digital content services evolve, Microsoft’s focus appears to be firmly set on its gaming and productivity ecosystems, leaving media consumption to the industry’s dominant players.