The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Microsoft announced on May 13, 2014, that Xbox 360 and Xbox One owners would no longer need Xbox Live Gold to access supported entertainment apps. The rollout began in June. The change removed the Xbox membership paywall for app access; it did not include a Netflix or Hulu subscription.
What changed in 2014?
Microsoft said it would let Xbox 360 and Xbox One owners use popular games and entertainment apps without an Xbox Live Gold membership. On June 3, 2014, the company confirmed that system updates for both consoles would begin rolling out globally that week. Microsoft reported a catalog of more than 180 apps and experiences across the two consoles at that time; that was a 2014 figure, not a current catalog count.
In the announcement, Phil Spencer, then Head of Xbox, said: “So, also starting in June, we will roll out a new set of benefits for our Xbox Live Gold members on Xbox One and we will offer anyone who owns an Xbox 360 or Xbox One access to popular games and entertainment apps without an Xbox Live Gold membership.” Read the May 13 announcement on Xbox Wire and the June 3 rollout confirmation.
Did this make Netflix and Hulu free?
No. “Without Xbox Live Gold” meant that Xbox Gold was no longer an additional requirement to access supported apps. It did not pay for the service or remove the provider’s own subscription requirements. Microsoft specifically cautioned that apps such as Netflix and Hulu might require subscriptions or other conditions set by the provider.
#1 Best Overall
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Which consoles and apps were included?
The change applied to supported apps on Xbox 360 and Xbox One. Microsoft’s May announcement named examples including Netflix, Univision Deportes, GoPro, Red Bull, HBO Go, Twitch, Upload, Internet Explorer, Skype, OneDrive and OneGuide. App availability varied by console and market, so this is a dated list of examples—not a promise that every app was available everywhere or remains available today.
Did the change remove Gold for online multiplayer?
The 2014 announcement addressed access to entertainment apps, alongside new benefits for Gold members on Xbox One. It did not announce that Xbox Live Gold was no longer required for online multiplayer. Do not read the app-access change as a broader change to multiplayer membership rules.
Rank #2
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
What is Xbox Live Gold called now?
Xbox’s current product page says Xbox Live Gold is now Xbox Game Pass Core. Gold is the correct name for the membership discussed in the 2014 announcement; the present-day name does not change what Microsoft announced then. See the Xbox Game Pass Core page for current naming and benefits.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why did Microsoft remove the app paywall?
Microsoft said the move would extend Xbox entertainment experiences to every connected console. Calling the decision “desperate” goes beyond what the company stated: its announcement does not establish that motive.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Rank #4
- XBOX ELITE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SERIES 2: Play like a pro with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks..Audio : 3.5mm stereo headset jack. Also compatible with the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter and all other Xbox controller accessories made by Microsoft.
- CORE ESSENTIALS: Includes just the components you need to unleash your best game. Additional components sold separately for even more customization with the Complete Component Pack.
- LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION: Exclusive button mapping options in the Xbox Accessories app—even pick which color the Xbox button lights up with.*
- CUSTOM PROFILES: Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly.*
- EXTENDED GAMEPLAY: Stay in the game with up to 40 hours of battery life and refined components that are built to last.*
Rank #3
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
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