Microsoft has officially exited the movies and TV distribution business, marking the end of an era for the tech giant's entertainment platform. As of July 18, 2025, the Microsoft Store no longer offers new movies or TV shows for purchase or rental on its website, Windows devices, and Xbox consoles. This move concludes nearly two decades of Microsoft's involvement in digital video sales, which began with the Zune Video Marketplace in 2006 and evolved into Xbox Video and, eventually, the Movies & TV app.

What Happens to Your Purchased Content?

Despite the shutdown of the storefront, Microsoft assures users that previously purchased content will remain accessible. You can continue to watch your purchased movies and TV shows through the Microsoft Movies & TV app on your Xbox or Windows device. Microsoft will also continue to provide technical support for previously purchased film and TV content. Downloads will still be available on Windows, and in HD max resolution.

Key Considerations

• No New Purchases: You can no longer buy or rent new movies and TV shows from the Microsoft Store.
• Continued Access: Existing purchases can still be viewed via the Microsoft Movies & TV app on Xbox and Windows devices.
• No Refunds: Microsoft will not issue refunds for past purchases, citing the Microsoft Store Terms of Sale.
• No Content Transfer: There is no built-in method to transfer your purchased content to another platform.

Workarounds and Alternatives

• Movies Anywhere (U.S. Only): If you are in the United States, you can use Movies Anywhere, a third-party service that allows you to sync eligible movies purchased from various digital storefronts, including Microsoft, with other platforms like Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video. This helps consolidate your movie library across different services. To connect your Microsoft-purchased movies with other Movies Anywhere retailers, visit the Movies Anywhere website or app, go to settings, and connect Microsoft to other retailers.
• Third-Party Apps: Microsoft suggests using other entertainment services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home to purchase or rent new movies and TV shows. These apps are available for download and use on both Xbox and Windows platforms.
• Alternative Media Players: Consider using third-party media players like doubleTwist, Infuse, SMPlayer or others to manage and play your video content.

Why is Microsoft Exiting the Movies & TV Business?

Microsoft has not provided a specific reason for discontinuing its Movies & TV store. However, the decision aligns with the company's ongoing reorganization of its Xbox business and a broader shift away from multimedia platform integration. It is speculated that the decline in digital download sales, in favor of subscription-based streaming services, also contributed to the decision. Microsoft's previous attempt to compete in the music streaming market with Groove Music (formerly Zune Music) was also unsuccessful, leading to its discontinuation in 2017.

Impact and Implications

The closure of the Microsoft Movies & TV store signifies the end of Microsoft's ambition to position the Xbox as a central hub for home entertainment. Users who have built up a digital library within the Microsoft ecosystem may find this transition frustrating. While access to purchased content is preserved, the inability to make new purchases and the lack of content transfer options may prompt users to seek alternative platforms for their future entertainment needs.