Xbox Live updated to accept real money

[Claptrap]

This morning's Xbox Live update finally converts all Microsoft Points ("space bucks") to the real currency of the user's particular region. The conversion in the United States appears to be in-line with the standard point conversion rate of $1 = 80 MS points.

The system appears to round up to the nearest quarter dollar in real currency during the update. For example, I had 3630 points, which converted would be $45.38. It was rounded up to $45.50 in the transition.

Microsoft announced the real money change-up during its E3 press conference. The company has also posted a currency transition FAQ.

Source: Joystiq​

 

[Sugarhill]

I am truly disappointed with this change to real money. I doubt very seriously if the same types of deals that could be found with Microsoft Points will be found with real cash cards. I know that sometimes Best Buy will discount iTunes cards, but for a while different retail stores would throw in points cards with different game promotions. It's harder for a company to fathom when they are throwing easily quantifiable amounts in with games.

 

[Claptrap]

I am truly disappointed with this change to real money. I doubt very seriously if the same types of deals that could be found with Microsoft Points will be found with real cash cards. I know that sometimes Best Buy will discount iTunes cards, but for a while different retail stores would throw in points cards with different game promotions. It's harder for a company to fathom when they are throwing easily quantifiable amounts in with games.

I agree here, the old Microsoft Points allowed people to take advantage of the exchange rate. Still, using real money makes it all feel less silly, but I don't really see many advantages otherwise.