While previously there were rumors that the currently existing Microsoft Points system would be removed eventually, new reports have stated that Microsoft has started removing the controversial virtual currency with the arrival of Windows 8.
It has been reported that Microsoft is on track to remove its Points payments system, which remained to be the default way to pay for any music downloads and movie rentals, or even purchases in Windows 8.
Microsoft's recent change of plans is expected to affect the way Windows 8 users will be paying for digital content via the operating system. However, previously, for Windows 8 betas, Microsoft implemented its popular Points system for all Video purchases, as well as rentals.
What this means is that a user with the Windows 8 beta, who has purchased video content via the store with Microsoft Points, will now have to use real world currency in order to make any future purchases or rentals.
The online currency from Microsoft has boasted massive popularity in the past for both Xbox Live and Zune Marketplace, and has been widely used across the Xbox 360 to purchase Xbox Live Arcade games, gamertag pictures, and other downloadable content available in exchange for the points. The new system implies that users will now have to purchase points in bundles that equate to 80 Microsoft Points for every $1.
The system, however, attracted controversies not only because it has always been a bit confusing, but also because of the left over points that created problems for players and users. Although the Redmond-based company has already started implementing the changes, it is still to be seen if the same is done on Xbox as well.
"In our own testing in the final copy of Windows 8, we are now able to pay for music or purchase and rent movies in the Xbox Video store by using a credit card," the report from The Verge stated.
Nonetheless, it is important to note that although users are still being able to use the Microsoft Points, it will now automatically default to credit card-based transactions.
Microsoft is yet to comment on the newly made change.
