Microsoft has announced that Xbox One users, who use "excessive profanity" in games that are shared through Upload Studio, could face the possibility of being banned from Xbox Live.
For the past few days, users have been complaining that they were not able to gain access to certain apps such as Skype and Upload Studio. The message "Choose something else to play" would appear on the screen when trying to enter said apps. Shortly after these complaints were received, Microsoft confirmed that they have been monitoring videos being uploaded to "Upload Studio". They deem "excessive swearing" to be breaking the ToS. Here is their official statement on TechCrunch.
"To be clear, the Xbox Live Policy & Enforcement team does not monitor direct peer-to-peer communications like Skype chats and calls. Also, we take Code of Conduct moderation via Upload Studio very seriously. We want a clean, safe and fun environment for all users. Excessive profanity as well as other Code of Conduct violations will be enforced upon and result in suspension of some or all privileges on Xbox Live. We remain committed to preserving and promoting a safe, secure and enjoyable experience for all of our Xbox Live members."
By the sounds of this, Microsoft is not playing around. The consequences will most likely escalate with repeated offenses and in turn; could see you saying goodbye to your Xbox Live privileges for good. They did claim that Skype calls and chats were not monitored, but the above photo could prove otherwise.
This could pose a major problem for the future of the Xbox One. The constant use of profanity is located in almost every in-game chat session on Xbox Live. Microsoft banning users for this could be a double standard on their part, seeing as most M-rated games use profanity at almost any given interval. It will be interesting to see if Twitch's live streaming feature will be handled like when it is updated in early 2014.
What are your thoughts on Microsoft trying to censor uploaded videos? Do you think that this is going too far? Please let me know in the comments below.
