Xbox 360's ESPN app shutting down next week

ESPN and Microsoft are retiring the Xbox 360's ESPN app on March 23, according to a notice posted in the app.

Microsoft confirmed the ESPN app's shutdown to Polygon in a statement that is essentially identical to the message in the app, which was first reported by Deadspin. The app debuted in November 2010, offering content such as live sporting events and personalized scores and highlights. Two years later, Microsoft and ESPN added live programming from all ESPN networks, including shows such as SportsCenter.

The shutdown applies only to the Xbox 360; the Xbox One's ESPN app will continue to operate, and Microsoft noted as much in its statement, directing users to "check out ESPN on Xbox One for everything you love about ESPN on Xbox 360."

Asked for additional details on the closure of the Xbox 360 app, an ESPN spokesperson declined further comment. But an ESPN source indicated to Polygon that usage of the ESPN app on Xbox 360 has been dropping since the launch of the Xbox One in November 2013. The Xbox 360 itself is well over 11 years old, having debuted in November 2005.

ESPN remains accessible on external devices including computers, tablets and streaming set-top boxes through the WatchESPN app. However, the Xbox One is now the only video game console that offers an ESPN app.