Microsoft will be shutting down its struggling video game live streaming platform Mixer on 22nd July and partnering with Facebook Gaming in its stead.
Mixer initially launched under the name Beam in 2016 and was rapidly acquired by Microsoft, who re-branded the platform with its current moniker the following year. However, despite the company's concerted efforts to boost the popularity of its service - which included signing up hugely popular Fortnite streamer Tyler "Ninja" Blevins as a Mixer exclusive in 2019 - its live streaming venture struggled against competition from Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook.
And now, less than a year on from the high-profile hiring of Blevins, Microsoft is ready to concede defeat in own live streaming efforts. Mixer will officially cease operations next month, and Mixer partners and streamers will transition to Facebook Gaming starting today.