Microsoft Network (MSN) might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think about the creator economy. It's been here for decades—a familiar name in news and entertainment baked into platforms like Windows, Bing, and Microsoft Edge. But with the fresh rise of the MSN app, the ecosystem is expanding its content by integrating user-generated videos and quietly stepping into the creator economy, becoming a unique, under-the-radar video distribution channel.
For years, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have dominated the conversation in video distribution. They're platforms where creators grow their follower base, go viral, and sometimes get paid (though often not as much as they'd like). MSN, on the other hand, offers something new: built-in visibility across platforms with over 2 billion monthly users—over 80% adult audience—and a chance to monetize without the usual grind.
This isn't about chasing algorithms or hitting thresholds. It's about giving creators a shortcut to monetization—day one. Right now, MSN is still in its early days—fewer rules, more opportunities. Unlike bigger platforms with their complicated policies, it's a lot simpler to get started. And with the platform growing fast, now's the time to jump in before things get more structured.
What Makes MSN Unique?
MSN isn't trying to be YouTube or TikTok—it's playing a completely different game. Instead of asking creators to bring an audience, MSN delivers the audience to the creators, embedding their content directly into tools people already use.
- MSN.com: The longstanding portal showcases curated videos alongside top news and entertainment, reaching millions daily.
- MSN app: A personalized feed-driven app that connects creators with audiences who aren't even looking for them—yet.
- Windows: creator content could pop up in the "news and interests" widget right on someone's taskbar.
- Bing: Videos show up directly on a starting search page, video tab, and in the search results, giving creators premium real estate on one of the world's largest search engines.
- Microsoft Edge: The browser's new tab page features curated videos and stories, putting content front and center.
MSN's zero-input content feed ensures your videos are distributed automatically to viewers based on their preferences, without any extra effort from creators. This system integrates content across the ecosystem—no need to fight algorithms or optimize endlessly for discovery.
An Invite-Only Playground for Creators
Unlike the open-door policies of YouTube or TikTok, MSN operates as an invite-only ecosystem. Creators can't just upload their content—they need to partner with authorized publishers like AIR Media-Tech and navigate an approval process, which isn't the quickest.
AIR Media-Tech is one of MSN's first official partners, giving creators access to Microsoft platforms. From content approvals and uploads to tracking performance and transparent reporting, AIR handles all aspects of content syndication, so creators don't have to worry about the backend. This curated approach ensures MSN stays high-quality while giving creators a streamlined way to earn and grow.
What Content Works on MSN?
MSN is built for creators who make engaging, professional-quality content, whether it's long-form storytelling or short videos. The platform focuses on niches that thrive in long-term engagement, including:
- Food and recipes
- Gaming highlights
- DIY and crafts
- Edutainment
- Beauty tutorials
- Travel guides
- Product reviews and unboxings
- Sport and Fitness
- Automotive content
This makes it a natural fit for creators who excel in storytelling, tutorials, or niche expertise.
What Creators Can Expect on MSN
Here's why creators might want to start paying attention. MSN offers an opportunity to monetize videos that already exist without additional effort. Unlike YouTube, which requires meeting milestones like 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, MSN enables creators to earn passive income from day one.
But the benefits go beyond money. By integrating content into platforms like Windows, Bing, and Microsoft Start, MSN exposes creators to entirely new audiences—ones who might not typically engage with YouTube or TikTok. This increased visibility helps creators expand their brand reach while connecting with users in spaces they haven't tapped into before.
And it doesn't stop there. Engaged viewers who discover a creator's content on MSN can be redirected to their YouTube channel, website, or other platforms, driving traffic and growing subscriber bases. It's not just about earning; it's about building a broader, more connected audience.
Can MSN Stand Out?
MSN's biggest challenge may be its own reputation—or lack thereof—among creators. For years, the platform has been seen as a legacy product, more useful for news aggregation than creative content. But the latest developments signal a shift. By focusing on curated, high-quality video content, Microsoft could turn MSN into a sleeper hit in the creator economy.
And while it's too early to say if MSN will truly disrupt the space, one thing is clear: its massive, built-in audience is a huge advantage.
There's one more bright side for creators right now: competition is still low. With MSN's invite-only model and its benefits still flying under the radar, it's the perfect time to jump in before the platform becomes more crowded. Early adopters have the chance to establish themselves, secure prime visibility, and build their audience while others are still catching up.
To take advantage of this unique opportunity, reach out to AIR Media-Tech, an official partner of MSN, and start sharing your content with millions today.
