Later this month, Microsoft is set to launch an Xbox credit card exclusively for Xbox testers in the United States. The card, known as the Xbox Mastercard, is a fee-free credit card from Barclays. This card allows you to accumulate points on your purchases, which you can then exchange for Xbox games and add-ons.
As per reports from international media, Microsoft is gearing up to unveil the Xbox credit card in the coming weeks, a privilege restricted to Xbox testers based in the United States. The Xbox Mastercard, a no-annual-fee offering by Barclays, empowers you to amass points on your expenditures, opening the door to the redemption of Xbox games and add-ons.
Dave McCarthy, the Chief Vice President of Xbox Player Services, elucidated, “Players can accrue points for everyday purchases with the Xbox Mastercard and utilize them for games and add-ons on xbox.com.” Commencing on September 21, this credit card will be exclusively accessible to Xbox Insiders in all 50 U.S. regions, with plans to extend availability to all Xbox players across these regions by 2024.
The Xbox Mastercard operates independently from Microsoft Rewards and has its own points system for card-related purchases. Earning one card point costs one dollar. You can exchange 1,500 card points for a $15 gift card in Microsoft’s online Xbox store. Xbox Mastercard users also earn 5 points for every $1 spent on qualifying products in Microsoft’s online store. They earn 3 points for every $1 spent on streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus, and 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at Microsoft’s online store, including services like Grubhub and DoorDash. Furthermore, services accumulate 3 points for every $1 spent.
Card members will also receive a 5,000-point bonus (equivalent to $50) after their initial purchase. Microsoft will also grant three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to new Game Pass members. Existing Game Pass members can also share these three months with friends or family. The Xbox Mastercard boasts five unique designs, and you have the option to personalize it with your gamer tags. Starting from September 21, Xbox users in the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii can apply for the Xbox Mastercard. Microsoft has indicated that the card will be gradually rolled out to Xbox Insiders throughout the fall.
This marks Microsoft’s first foray into the Xbox card realm in over a decade. In 2005, the company introduced the Xbox Live Diamond Loyalty Card, offering discounts at select retailers to Xbox Live users. Sony also joined by introducing its PlayStation credit card, featuring a points system to redeem games, movies, electronics, and more.
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