Image via Microsoft

Xbox Live has been a long-standing fixture of the Xbox ecosystem since its launch in 2002. Information technology'south the umbrella term for the entire suite of internet-dependent features Xbox users have had access to, similar the Xbox Alive Market place and Xbox Live Arcade. However, the name is on its mode out. After some hints towards the change, Microsoft confirmed that Xbox Alive is officially becoming Xbox network.

In a argument to Game Informer, a Microsoft spokesperson explained the reasoning backside the modify. "Xbox network refers to the underlying Xbox online service, which was updated in the Microsoft Services Understanding," said the spokesperson. "The update from 'Xbox Live' to 'Xbox network' is intended to distinguish the underlying service from Xbox Live Golden memberships."

What that means in plain English language is that Xbox Live Gold isn't going anywhere. If you're gaming on an Xbox and want to employ online services, like multiplayer, y'all're still going to exist an Xbox Live Gilt member.

It seems that the Xbox network will instead be an umbrella term for all the online gaming services offered to Xbox players. Distinguishing the two makes sense. As Xbox Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate gain popularity separating the two should clarify what services players are paying for.