Microsoft Xbox One a smashing hit: 1M units sold in 24 hours since launch
Microsoft has announced that it sold a whopping one million Xbox One units in the console's first 24 hours of availability.
The Xbox One was highly anticipated and it seems to be in great demand already, with impressive sales figures in 13 worldwide markets.
"We are humbled and grateful for the excitement of Xbox fans around the world," Yusuf Mehdi, Corporate VP of marketing and strategy for Microsoft's Xbox, said in a blog post on Friday, Nov. 22.
"Seeing thousands of excited fans lined up to get their Xbox One and their love for gaming was truly a special moment for everyone on the Xbox team. We are working hard to create more Xbox One consoles and look forward to fulfilling holiday gift wishes this season."
According to Microsoft, the Xbox One general release in 13 worldwide markets was the "biggest launch in Xbox history," and launch day sales are definitely impressive. The company said the Xbox One sold out at most retailers, but promised to "replenish stock as fast as possible to meet unprecedented demand from our customers."
The Xbox One launched with 22 available titles, including 10 exclusive games. The device is not only a gaming console, but also serves as a one-stop-shop for entertainment, web browsing and social media hub. Users can use the Xbox One's bundled Kinect 2.0 sensor to interact with the console using movement, gestures, and voice commands, and the system also provides access to live TV, music, Skype, and more.
Microsoft organized several street parties in cities around the world to celebrate the Xbox One launch. In New York, for instance, Xbox One promos were all over the Times Square video billboards, to the delight of the crowds. The company also held launch parties in Sydney, New Zealand, London, and Los Angeles.
The Xbox One seems off to a very strong start and if these early sales numbers are any indication, the console will soon become one of the most popular choices this holiday shopping season. It remains to be seen now whether Microsoft will be able to keep up with the high demand.