Microsoft monitoring performance and usage of Xbox Live due to "unprecedented demand"

Microsoft has said it is currently monitoring the performance and usage of its Xbox services.

According to an official message from Xbox boss Phil Spencer, Microsoft is seeing "unprecedented demand for gaming" from Xbox customers.

To that end, the company is keeping an eye on its services and increasing worldwide demand.

"I have previously stated that I believe gaming has a unique power to bring people together, to entertain, to inspire and connect us, and I believe that’s even more true under these unique circumstances," said Spencer. "Many are looking to gaming to remain connected with their friends while practicing social distancing, and we are seeing unprecedented demand for gaming from our customers right now.

"We understand the important role gaming is playing right now to connect people and provide joy in these isolating and stressful times, and our teams are working diligently to ensure we can be there for our players. To that end, we are actively monitoring performance and usage trends to ensure we’re optimizing the service for our customers worldwide and accommodating for new growth and demand."

Spencer didn't say whether Microsoft would have to resort to throttling Xbox Live download speeds like Sony is doing in Europe.

Microsoft also announced because millions of children are at home due to coronavirus-related school closures, it has added a new Education category to Minecraft. The content is free through June 30 and allows users to explore the International Space Station, learn to code, visit D.C. landmarks, learn what it’s like to be a marine biologist, and more.