[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
Microsoft’s virtual currency, Microsoft points, has been a dispute with many Xbox LIVE members. It’s a common circumstance; spending money for virtual currency in order to purchase content from the Xbox LIVE marketplace. Seems like a superfluous second step, wouldn’t you think? Not to mention the frustration of having several dozen leftover, rendered unusable.However reports suggest that Microsoft Points will be phased out completely and that ‘real’ money will be the replacement.
Microsoft Points are currently the currency for applications over Xbox LIVE, the Zune Marketplace and Games for Windows Computers and Phones. But for how much longer? Inside Mobile Apps suggest that by the end of 2012 Microsoft Points will be phased out, in return for straight-up transactions based on the region’s currency (Pound Sterling, US Dollars, Euros etc.). This would position Microsoft firmly in competition with Apple’s App Store and Sony’s Playstation Network – both using real currency, opposed to virtual.
Source