Xbox CFO Highlights Shift from Console Sales to Content and Services Metrics
In 2015, Microsoft made a strategic move by discontinuing the public disclosure of Xbox sales numbers. Shedding light on this decision, Xbox CFO Tim Stuart provided insights during the Wells Fargo 2023 TMT Summit, emphasizing that, for Microsoft, unit-sales figures alone do not offer the clearest representation of the overall performance of the Xbox brand.
While competitors like Sony and Nintendo regularly announce hardware sales numbers, Microsoft’s approach differs. The Xbox brand, often perceived as trailing behind PlayStation and Switch in console sales, might contribute to the company’s decision to withhold specific sales figures.
Stuart addressed the issue, stating, “At first, it was like, ‘What are you doing?’ ‘You’re the Xbox business, and you’re not giving us console [sales numbers], that makes no sense.’ But it was really the first point of us saying, no, no, it’s about content and services.”
He emphasized that the success of Xbox is better measured by the number of customers it attracts and the revenue generated by the brand. Xbox has evolved beyond being solely a console brand, as highlighted by Phil Spencer, who previously stated that console sales numbers are not an accurate reflection of the health of the gaming ecosystem.
Stuart outlined his focus on expanding Xbox’s reach and increasing user spending through various purchasing options, such as outright game purchases, Game Pass subscriptions, and even ad-supported mobile titles.
With an eye on emerging markets like Africa, India, and Southeast Asia, where consoles aren’t the primary focus, Microsoft aims to promote streaming and mobile games. Stuart underscored the vast potential in the mobile market, estimating the audience to be in the billions, compared to the couple hundred million in the console market.
The recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard aligns with Microsoft’s strategy to dominate the mobile gaming sector. Stuart highlighted the challenge of entering the mobile market and noted that, with Activision Blizzard’s portfolio, Microsoft is now a key player in this domain.
Looking ahead, Stuart hinted at leveraging Activision Blizzard’s mobile expertise to create experiences based on Microsoft’s IP. While specific titles like “Halo Mobile” weren’t announced, Microsoft aims to explore new possibilities in the realm of mobile gaming.
Additionally, Stuart revealed Microsoft’s aspirations to bring Game Pass to PlayStation and Nintendo devices, signaling a shift towards a platform-agnostic approach. He also discussed the potential benefits of integrating AI into gaming experiences. As Xbox evolves, Microsoft’s overarching strategy focuses on a diversified gaming ecosystem beyond traditional console sales metrics.