Microsoft has announced that Xbox All Access will include an option to upgrade to Project Scarlett when the new console launches in late 2020 (via Polygon). “We realize buying a console is an investment and some players are waiting to make the jump to the next generation with Project Scarlett when it launches in Holiday 2020 alongside Halo Infinite,” Xbox general manager of platform and devices marketing Jeff Gattis said in a post on Xbox Wire.
Xbox All Access is basically a leasing promotional program that allows gamers to make monthly payments on an Xbox console, allowing to the pay for the console over time rather than in one lump sum. It’s a great idea, and it also allows Microsoft to promote other services and special offers as the company often bundles in special bonuses and free offers with All Access consoles. Currently, Xbox All Access offers access to a special bundle of a basic model Xbox One, with one Xbox controller and a 24-month membership to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Xbox One X, Xbox One S or Xbox One S All-Digital Edition bundles are also included in the offer.
Gamers in various markets can take advantage of the special offer by going to a participating retailer on signing up. Over the next ~24 months the customer makes payments on the console each month, enjoying the full range of games and services it has to offer. And after the payments are complete, they own said console. With this new initiative, customers can return to the same shop they initially signed up at to opt-in for an upgrade to the next generation Scarlett console.
Gamers have until December 31, 2019 in the US, Australia or UK to sign up for the upgrade. And assuming they complete 18 payments between now and when they go to claim the new console, they can swap out for the new version. Those wishing to take part must reserve an Xbox One X through Xbox All Access if they want the new console when it releases, and have good standing with the payment partner for Microsoft in their region. Also, you have to return the original Xbox One X in good condition. Basically, just don’t abuse or break the console and have a decent credit rating and you will be fine.
If you want to wait a bit, or have a bit more financial flexibility on your new console purchase, there are other options besides and Xbox One X. Each console variant can take part, it just takes a bit longer to reach the necessary payment level to opt-in to the new Scarlett console. The Xbox One X has a 12-month upgrade option, the Xbox One S has an 18-month upgrade option, and the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition has an 18-month upgrade option with a £15.00 charge. The offer with Xbox All Access will be live on November 5th in the UK, November 8th in the US, and October 29th in Australia.
