Microsoft warns Xbox One X buyers to expect shortages at launch

Xbox One X
Xbox One X (Image credit: Windows Central)

Microsoft's upcoming console, the Xbox One X, is just around the corner – releasing worldwide on November 7. Set to deliver improved resolutions and graphical fidelity to Xbox One games, the device has garnered a fair amount of attention in recent months, with pre-orders selling out on multiple occasions.

In most countries it's still possible to secure an Xbox One X ahead of release, however, Microsoft UK is now warning that gamers should avoid leaving purchases to the last minute. In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Xbox UK director Harvey Eagle has warned that Xbox One X consoles may hard to come by over the launch period.

It was the fastest pre-order of an Xbox that we've ever had. I can't guarantee that stock will be available in launch week for people to just walk into a store and pick up. Demand is really high. I'd just encourage people if they want one at launch, to get moving.

Although shortages might be expected at launch, Eagle did clarify that new stock will be frequently distributed, at least in the UK. "New stock deliveries into retail each week as we get through to Christmas," with other major markets assumedly having a similar flow of units available leading up to the holidays.

Since preorders for the Xbox One X first went live back in August, securing the console before launch has been challenging for many. Although new stock has been made available regularly, both the "Project Scorpio" edition console and standard units have seen periods of unavailability in some regions.

While it's expected for Microsoft to tout consumer interest in the Xbox One X, it's still recommended that a preorder is placed to guarantee a device for launch day. For now, we'll have to wait and see what happens in the weeks ahead.

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Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.