Microsoft is abandoning its point-based purchase system with Windows 8, potentially signaling the first phase in a Microsoft Marketplace redesign that may sweep over the Xbox 360 during the fall dashboard update, and will more than likely be the Redmond-based company's new universal standard by the time the Xbox 720 launches.
According to a report by The Verge, Windows 8 users now have a choice between using traditional Microsoft Points or just use a credit card to pay a flat rate for any music, movies, or games that they purchase. While both options are available, the OS defaults to the new method, promoting the shift from the cumbersome point system. For reference, $1 equates to 80 Microsoft Points.
The Xbox Marketplace has been a source of frustration for many Xbox 360 gamers who find the system misleading and confusing, particularly in contrast to the Playstation 3's marketplace which requires direct credit card purchases.
The Xbox 360 Fall Dashboard Update will add Internet Explorer functionality, recommendations and ratings, the ability to pin and favorite apps on the home page, add voice search, and supplement search capabilities. The update is currently in beta, but will launch within the next few months.
Microsoft has yet to officially confirm when, or if, the pricing system update will roll out on the Xbox 360. The Xbox 720 is still under wraps as well, but the new system will likely adopt Windows 8's evolutionary additions.
Latinos Post will provide updates on the Fall Dashboard Update as they become available.
Fall Dashboard Update Beta
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