Microsoft and Barclays have teamed up to announce a new Xbox Mastercard, allowing cardmembers to earn points on purchases for games in the Microsoft Store. The card, set to launch on September 21 exclusively for Xbox Insider Program members in the US, will be available to all US-based Xbox users next year. The primary goal of the partnership is to encourage users to buy Xbox content.
Cardmembers will earn one reward point for every dollar spent on everyday purchases, but the incentive grows to five points per dollar spent at the Microsoft Store. Users will also earn three points per dollar for purchases made at select streaming and dining services. These reward points, worth a penny each, can be redeemed for Xbox games and add-ons.
The Xbox Mastercard will come in five “iconic designs” and can be personalized with the user’s Xbox Gamertag. It will also support contactless payments and digital wallets, making it convenient for users. Additionally, cardmembers will have access to their FICO credit score for free.
However, it is important to note that the APR for the Xbox Mastercard ranges from 20.99% to 31.99% based on the results of a credit pull. Potential cardholders should carefully consider this aspect before applying for the card.
To entice users to sign up and use the card, Microsoft is offering extra perks. Cardmembers will receive a bonus of 5,000 card points after their first purchase. Furthermore, three free months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will be provided, and if the user is already a subscriber, they can transfer it to a friend.
With this new Xbox Mastercard, Microsoft aims to further engage its users in the gaming experience while also rewarding them for their purchases. As the card becomes available to all US-based Xbox users next year, it will likely attract even more gamers who are looking to maximize their gaming potential.
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