Microsoft Points RIP – Xbox Live update kills off digital currency

As of today all purchases made on Xbox Live will be conducted in real currencies.

An update rolled out over Xbox Live has killed off Microsoft’s Points digital currency, replacing all fees with proper sterling amounts for gamers in the UK.

Any existing account balances will also be translated from MSP to the equivalent amount of Her Majesty’s Pounds (or pence).

Retailers with existing stock of Microsoft Points cards need not fret, however. While these will be replaced with proper currency denominations later this year, MSP cards will still work.

Microsoft Points Cards you purchase in retail stores will continue to be redeemable on your console and Xbox.com until further notice,” a statement confirmed. Microsoft has no plans to discontinue acceptance of previously purchased Points cards and codes.

We’ll still accept purchased Microsoft Points Cards and codes until further notice, and we’ll add to your account an amount of local currency equal to or greater than the Marketplace value of those points. When you next redeem a Points card or code, those Points will be retired, and your account will begin using your local currency instead.

Microsoft Points cards and codes that you have purchased and choose to redeem after your account has transitioned will expire one year from the date the Points are redeemed.”