Verizon partners with Microsoft to sell Xbox consoles via All Access program, touts “5G innovation”

Robert Collins

Xbox All Access

Selling game consoles is nothing new to Verizon, which has carried both PS5 and Xbox Series X|S stock in its online store. As of today (July 26) Verizon will get in on the Xbox All Access program.

For those not familiar with Xbox All Access, it is a monthly financing program in which qualifying customers can purchase a Series S console and Game Pass Ultimate for as low as $24.99 a month, for 24 months.

Really there doesn’t seem to be anything special about Verizon’s announcement. It is the same deal as with other retailers offering the Xbox All Access program. And as with most others, it will use Affirm to handle payments.

Verizon went pretty heavy on touting its 5G features in the announcement, stating,

Today’s announcement that we’re joining forces with Microsoft builds on Verizon’s promise of 5G growth and innovation across multiple platforms, including mobility, nationwide broadband and the most popular consumer offerings.

How exactly does 5G come into play here? According to Verizon’s announcement,

Thanks to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you can also take your favorite console games with you on-the-go. Whether you’re on vacation or commuting to work, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and 5G Ultra Wideband can help you play your favorite Xbox titles from the cloud with ultra low latency and up to 10 times faster download speeds than Verizon 4G LTE, all on Verizon’s Mix & Match Unlimited plans. Pair your phone with your favorite controller or play with Xbox touch controls for supported games, and you are ready to jump in with the Xbox Game Pass app!

To be clear, there is no bundle being offered with Verizon service and Xbox All Access, nor is there an option to integrate billing.

The Verizon Xbox All Access deal will be available on verizon.com starting July 28. Discounts on Xbox accessories will also be available, such as $40 off Microsoft Xbox Stereo headsets and 50% off the Xbox Elite controller.