Buy Now, Pay Later option appears on Xbox backend

A new 'Buy Now, Pay Later' option has been spotted in the backend code of the Xbox digital store, suggesting that Microsoft is testing payment-splitting options for digital purchases. The feature would allow players to split the cost of games, consoles, or subscription plans into interest-free installments.

The integration of consumer financing tools like Klarna or PayPal Pay in 4 directly into the console interface points to a push for checkout flexibility. With AAA games regularly priced at $70 and hardware bundles costing hundreds, splitting payments could reduce barriers to entry for budget-conscious players. However, some users have raised concerns about introducing credit financing into game shopping.

This platform-commerce experiment highlights how digital storefronts are adopting mainstream e-commerce trends to drive sales volume and subscription renewals. If Microsoft rolls out the payment splitting option globally, it could change how players finance their digital game libraries and game passes. Other console manufacturers will likely monitor the trial to see if it increases average cart value.

Source: Insider Gaming - https://insider-gaming.com/buy-now-pay-later-option-appears-on-xbox-backend/