For those that didn’t know, Microsoft is planning on transitioning from Microsoft Points to local currency beginning with a new dashboard update to the Xbox 360. Along with this transition, Xbox Live subscribers can no longer earn Microsoft Points through Xbox Live Rewards.
On the Xbox website, Microsoft made the important announcement urging Xbox Live subscribers that this move was necessary and part of an evolution of how gamers are rewarded. Microsoft revealed during E3 that major changes were coming to Xbox Live, including the switch to local currency and allowing gamers to use money to purchase content on Xbox.
“With all these changes, it’s become necessary for us to evolve the way we reward you. Starting August 1, 2013, you will not be able to earn Microsoft Points through Xbox Live Rewards any longer. Not to worry, though! Since this currency change is impacting the structure of the program, we’re taking the opportunity to make Xbox Live Rewards even better. You’ll continue to get rewarded for doing the things you love on Xbox Live – just not with Microsoft Points. So come back to rewards.xbox.com on September 1, 2013 for the full scoop,” Microsoft stated.
On August 7th of 2013, Microsoft will deposit all pending rewards points into your account, even if the points are less than 100. “And if you still have Points in your Xbox account when Microsoft Points are retired, they’ll be transitioned into your country’s local currency. Your currency will be available for use at the Xbox Stores as usual,” Microsoft explains.
This change to Xbox Live Rewards takes place August 1st, 2013.
