Microsoft's Xbox console revenue has taken a significant hit, falling by 30% year-over-year during the summer quarter. The decline in hardware sales doesn't appear to be directly related to the recent price hikes, which went into effect on October 3 and saw the cost of new consoles range from $20 to $70.
In contrast, revenue from Xbox content and services remained relatively stable compared to the same period last year. Microsoft credited growth in subscription numbers and third-party content for the increase, but noted that this was partially offset by a decline in first-party gaming content.
The decline in hardware sales is likely due to a combination of factors, including the impact of global workforce cuts earlier this year. As part of these cuts, several high-profile games were cancelled, including a modern remake of the classic shooter Perfect Dark and the long-in-development game Everwild from studio Rare.
Despite the challenges facing its Xbox division, Microsoft's overall revenue for the quarter ended September 30 saw a significant increase, rising by 17% to $77.7 billion. The company also reported a 22% increase in operating income.
In a recent earnings call, CEO Satya Nadella highlighted Microsoft's focus on expanding its AI capabilities, with plans to increase capacity by 80% this year and nearly double its data center footprint over the next two years. This growth will be supported by investments in Fairwater, Wisconsin, which has become the world's most powerful AI datacenter, capable of scaling to two gigawatts alone.
In contrast, revenue from Xbox content and services remained relatively stable compared to the same period last year. Microsoft credited growth in subscription numbers and third-party content for the increase, but noted that this was partially offset by a decline in first-party gaming content.
The decline in hardware sales is likely due to a combination of factors, including the impact of global workforce cuts earlier this year. As part of these cuts, several high-profile games were cancelled, including a modern remake of the classic shooter Perfect Dark and the long-in-development game Everwild from studio Rare.
Despite the challenges facing its Xbox division, Microsoft's overall revenue for the quarter ended September 30 saw a significant increase, rising by 17% to $77.7 billion. The company also reported a 22% increase in operating income.
In a recent earnings call, CEO Satya Nadella highlighted Microsoft's focus on expanding its AI capabilities, with plans to increase capacity by 80% this year and nearly double its data center footprint over the next two years. This growth will be supported by investments in Fairwater, Wisconsin, which has become the world's most powerful AI datacenter, capable of scaling to two gigawatts alone.