- Direct redemption of points for Xbox Game Pass is disappearing; the alternative is Xbox gift cards.
- Auto-renewal with points is disabled: you now have to renew manually using your redeemed balance.
- The number of points required typically increases when using gift cards and may vary by region and currency.
- Microsoft has revamped the Rewards hub on PC, allowing you to redeem points from the mobile app to better manage your balance.
There has been a major change in how we use microsoft rewards points: As of October 1, it is no longer possible to convert them directly into Game Pass subscription months.The system for earning points remains the same, but the path to subscription is unchanged. it's not the same anymore.
In practice, those who used Bing searches, mobile tasks, or console challenges on a daily basis to sustain their plan will have to go through an alternative: redeem points for Xbox gift cards and use that balance to pay for the subscription. The result is the same (continue playing with Game Pass), although now there is an intermediate step y, in many cases, more points are required.
What exactly has changed in Xbox Rewards points?
The program keeps the accumulation of points for usual activities (searching on Bing, completing missions, buying in the Microsoft Store or playing on Xbox) intact, but direct exchange disappears of Game Pass points and also automatic renewal with points. This means you won't see the option to redeem a month of Game Pass in the catalog anymore.
The way suggested by Microsoft is clear: convert your points into balance through an Xbox gift card and then manually purchase or renew the plan (Core, PC or Ultimate). Additionally, some notices state that the gift card code or associated balance must be used within a certain timeframe, for example 90 days since the exchange.
With this change, the user now controls the renewal dates. The subscription is no longer extended in the background with points, but rather must monitor the expiration and execute the purchase when appropriate, something that for many players is a unnecessary detour compared to the previous system.
How to redeem your points for months of Game Pass now
The process is not complicated, although it adds an extra step. gift card translates into balance in your Microsoft account, which you can use for games, add-ons, or subscriptions like Game Pass.
- Enter Microsoft Rewards and choose the option to redeem for Xbox gift card with the amount that interests you.
- Apply the code to your account to convert it into credit. Check that it appears as available credit in the store.
- Go to the Xbox subscriptions section y purchase or renew your Game Pass plan you want by paying with your balance.
- Write down the expiration date y repeat the exchange when the end of the period approaches.
Although the end result is the same (continue enjoying Game Pass without paying with money), management becomes manual and, in many regions, the cost in points is higher to the one who had the direct exchange.
How many points are needed and what varies by region
The equivalences depend on the country and currency, so it's best to treat the figures as references. In some panels, for example, A $20 gift card is worth around 19.000 points.; in euros, it is common to see something close to 10 € for 10 €These quantities may fluctuate with promotions and availability.
With direct exchange eliminated, the comparison with the previous system leaves a clear message: Previously it was possible to redeem a month of Game Pass Ultimate with a specific number of points in the catalog itself.Now, when using a card, the equivalence is often less advantageous and may require covering the same month to achieve the same goal.
How to earn and manage your points more comfortably
The way of accumulating does not change: You can continue adding points with Bing searches, daily quizzes, challenges, and Microsoft Store purchases.At higher Rewards levels, the daily limits and points per euro spent increase, helping to speed up your spending if you're active monthly. For more details on how to earn points on Xbox, see these options to earn points.
Furthermore, Microsoft has redesigned the Rewards hub on PC and incorporated tools such as goal cards. to track progress toward large swaps.
- Daily searches on Bing on PC and mobile to complete the points quota.
- Activities and streaks on Rewards.com to multiply weekly earnings.
- Missions linked to Xbox and Game Pass that add extra points when playing.
- Selected purchases from the Microsoft Store, which also add to the total.
If you've been in the program for a while, Don't forget to check your level and the associated daily limit; in Level 2, for example, they are enabled upper stops and more task options, which is key to reaching the required level to renew Game Pass sooner. Check out how to maximize your level in this guide.
Tips to avoid losing value when redeeming your points
The general recommendation is redeem only when you have enough to cover what you need, whether it's a month of Game Pass or a larger card. Avoid breaking up your redemption into smaller codes if that means repeating steps with no real benefit.
Always control the deadlines: if the notice for your region indicates that the code or balance must be used within a certain time, prioritize its use. application and consumption so you don't lose it. And, of course, try not to let your points expire due to prolonged inactivity.
One last note: if Game Pass prices are adjusted at some point, the point equivalency needed to cover a month with credit could increase. Keeping a homework routine and taking advantage of Rewards streaks and promotions will help you offset those changes without surprises.
The Xbox Rewards points landscape has changed significantly: earning points remains easy, but direct redemption for Game Pass has given way to gift cards and manual balance management. With date tracking, a strategy for redemption when needed, and the use of the new hub and mobile app, continue covering the subscription It is still possible, although with one more step and attention to the equivalences of each region.
I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.
If you have any questions, my knowledge ranges from everything related to the Windows operating system as well as Android for mobile phones. And my commitment is to you, I am always willing to spend a few minutes and help you resolve any questions you may have in this internet world.