Microsoft is now testing a new program where you can register for the purchase of an Xbox Series X. This is intended to combat scalpers. Microsoft wants to test the program in the USA first, before it comes to Europe.
Currently, many users want to buy a next-gen console like a PS5 or an Xbox Series X. However, the consoles are hardly available. The few available Xbox consoles are being bought up by bots.
Microsoft now wants to make it a bit easier for Xbox One owners to get a next generation console. For this, Microsoft has launched the “Console Purchase Pilot” program. Microsoft has officially presented this program on Twitter (via Twitter.com)
This is mainly aimed at helping loyal fans and supporters get a new console. While the Xbox Series X is completely sold out on Amazon and elsewhere, you can at least still buy the small Xbox Series S on Amazon without problems*.
The new program is primarily aimed at Xbox players
To even be part of the “Console Purchase Pilot” program, you need to be part of the “Xbox Insider” program.
According to Microsoft, the Insider program is primarily aimed at “passionate Xbox fans” to give them the opportunity to provide feedback to the company on Xbox system updates and new features.
This way, you become a voluntary beta tester who also wants to actively provide feedback. Not only major features are tested, but also simple, new controller features for the Xbox, which users are already looking forward to. Also, Steam games could become available on the Xbox, as some testers have reported.
How does this work exactly? There are currently a few restrictions for joining the “Console Purchase Pilot”:
- The project applies to users of the “Xbox Insider Program” and owners of an Xbox One
- The number of consoles is limited, so not everyone who registers will get a spot.
After registering for the “Console Purchase Pilot”, all interested parties are placed in a draw from which they will be randomly selected. Those selected will then have the opportunity to purchase an Xbox console.
The consoles are offered by Microsoft at the MSRP. This means you get an Xbox Series S for 299 euros and an Xbox Series X for 499 euros. You do not pay scalper prices that are significantly above the original price.
What are the chances of getting an Xbox Series X? The chances are higher than if you try to buy a console at retail. Because scalpers and bots have significantly lower chances of getting a console.
In Germany, you still have to be patient: The project currently only starts in the USA. If the test with the “Console Purchase Pilot” is successful, Microsoft is likely to expand the program to other countries. However, this is just a guess and not an official statement from Microsoft.
If you don’t want to wait that long, don’t need 4k performance, and don’t have any game discs, you could also consider looking at the Xbox Series S. MeinMMO gives you detailed information on who might benefit from the small console:
How to participate in the Insider program
If you might want to secure your chance for the “Console Purchase Pilot” program in the future or simply test new features on the Xbox One or Series X, you can register for the Insider program with just a few steps:
- Navigate to the Xbox Store on your Xbox.
- Then search for “Xbox Insider Hub” in the search field.
- On the product page of the “Xbox Insider Hub”, select Buy/Install.
- Then start the app and select “Insider Content”.
- Under System, select the option Xbox One / Series X Update Preview and choose either Participate or Manage.
- Then you can select the preview ring. If you are new, you can only select the Omega ring.
More games for Xbox: If you are looking for more games for the Xbox Series X, check out this article: Here we present the best MMORPGs you can play on PS5 and Xbox Series X in 2021.
