Microsoft announces Xbox credit card with benefits program

Microsoft surprised everyone, announcing this week the launch of the Xbox Credit Card, which will be available later this month exclusively to Xbox testers in the US.

The Xbox Mastercard is a no-annual-fee credit card issued by Barclays Bank, and purchases made using the card will generate points that can be redeemed for Xbox games and add-ons.

Aiming to focus more on subscription services, Microsoft this week announced a very attractive payment solution for Xbox fans.

The Xbox Mastercard is not affiliated with Microsoft Rewards, so it offers a new benefits program that is offered through purchases with the card. Every dollar spent earns one point, and 1,500 points are enough to claim a $15 gift card that can be redeemed in the Microsoft Xbox Online Store. Xbox Mastercard owners will also be able to earn five points for every dollar spent on select products from the Microsoft online store, three points for every dollar spent on streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus, and three points for every dollar spent on delivery services like Grubhub. And DoorDash.

Using the Xbox Mastercard credit card, players can earn points when they make everyday purchases, allowing them to redeem games and add-ons on the Xbox website. The Xbox Mastercard will be available exclusively to Xbox Insiders in the US starting September 21, with availability to all US Xbox players in 2024.

Dave McCarthyExecutive Vice President of Xbox Game Services.

Card members will also receive a bonus 5,000 points ($50 value) after their first purchase with the card, as well as three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for new Game Pass members. These three months can also be given to friends or family if you’re already a Game Pass member.

Users can choose from five different card designs, with the option to customize them with their own player name. Xbox Insiders in the US, Alaska, and Hawaii can start claiming the Xbox Mastercard on September 21. Microsoft says the Xbox Mastercard will be available in waves to Xbox Insiders this fall.

At the moment, we still don’t know if the card will be available in other countries, but what do you think of this news?