Microsoft may have found a solution to the Xbox Series X and Series S restocking issue, as Xbox Insider revealed in a new tweet that existing Xbox One owners will be able to pre-order the Series X or S through the Insider Hub.
But here's the problem. To participate, you must be a member of Microsoft's Xbox Insider Program. Furthermore, only U.S. gamers are eligible. Furthermore, the tweet states that capacity is limited and not everyone who registers will be selected. A bit disappointing, but perhaps the company could expand in the future.
The Xbox team told users on Reddit that not everyone will be invited either; anyone participating in the Insider program can check out a "flight" on the Insider Hub called Xbox Series X|S Console Purchase Pilot If you see it, you can register your interest. If it shows up, they can register their interest. Those who register will be entered into a drawing for a chance to purchase the console.
Additionally, all purchases must be completed within Xbox One. They will also be sent a series of surveys asking for feedback on the process. This perhaps suggests that Microsoft is considering developing this idea further in the future.
Xbox Insider is similar to Microsoft's program for Windows. Enthusiastic users can participate in beta builds of updates. They get early access to new features, but they may encounter bugs, become unstable, or lose data.
However, this is generally an interesting approach. Why not allow existing customers to access the console first? You have a loyal fan base, and Insiders are most likely to be loyal - so it makes sense to offer those players any capacity for the Xbox Series X and S first.
As tracked, buying multiple consoles and flipping them later will be impossible. If a console is sold, it will instead go back in the queue waiting for consoles through the retail channel.
Not many will enjoy this, but for those who do, it is a good thing, and it is encouraging that insiders will be the first to experience it.
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