Microsoft rolled out a new update over the weekend for its gaming console Xbox. The latest update officially removes the integration of Mixer and revamp some icons. The Redmond-based tech giant earlier announced its plan to remove the streaming platform this month.
Why Microsoft Shuts Down Mixer?
Microsoft officially killed the streaming platform Mixer on its gaming console Xbox One. This was made possible through an update rolled out over the weekend. The tech industry was surprised a few weeks ago when rumors that Mixer would shut down. Formerly known as Beam, Microsoft acquired the streaming platform at the rise of online streaming activity dominated by YouTube and Twitch.
Later, Microsoft decided to hand Mixer to Facebook Gaming. Several rumors claimed that Microsoft's streaming platform's shutdown was due to dissipating funds that it reportedly used to promote itself and forge deals with streamers. On July 22, Mixer will completely close down to viewers, and it is now being removed from Xbox One.
Mixer Partners, streamers, and community - today, we've got some very big news for you. While we’ve decided to close the operations side of Mixer, we're officially partnering with @FacebookGaming and we're cordially inviting all of you to join. https://t.co/E1eMDvjYQb pic.twitter.com/554hHAXfaB — Mixer (@WatchMixer) June 22, 2020
While Mixer's official website is still up until July 22, streamers and watchers would be redirected to Facebook Gaming after the said date. The streaming platform's shutdown would displace streamers who preferred to partner with the company but not with Facebook Gaming. But it would not be a problem for high-profile streamers like Ninja.
The popular streamer left Twitch because the platform is getting too toxic. Ninja switched to Mixer with more than a million followers in just a matter of five days. With Mixer closing down, Ninja does not intend to return to Twitch.
The popular streamer is reportedly looking forward to using YouTube, where his first live stream earned more than 167,000 viewers. Xbox boss Phil Spencer earlier said that he has no regrets about Mixer. Xbox is currently preparing for the Xbox Game Showcase happening this month.
Xbox One Update
The latest update that removed the integration of Mixer on Xbox One also introduced several changes. It includes multiple changes on some icons, and it makes the Events app a permanent part of the gaming console. Some users claimed that the download went fast, but they recommend restarting the gaming console after installing the update. After booting the hardware, it would take time for the My Games & App to load, and some claimed that it does not quickly show up.
The Xbox Game Showcase is scheduled for July 23, 2020. Meanwhile, the company announced last year that Xbox Series X would arrive sometime in the holiday of 2020.
