Tag: Microsoft Rewards

  • Microsoft Rewards Can’t Be Used for Xbox Game Pass Anymore

    Microsoft Rewards Can’t Be Used for Xbox Game Pass Anymore

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft Rewards will no longer allow points to be redeemed for Xbox Game Pass subscriptions starting October 1st.
    2. Users will need to purchase Xbox gift cards, which require more points than before (e.g., $20 gift card costs 19,000 points versus 12,000 points for one month of Game Pass Ultimate).
    3. Earning Microsoft Rewards points has become more difficult, with longer wait times and fewer opportunities to accumulate points.
    4. There are concerns about potential price increases for Xbox Game Pass tiers, with hints of rising costs based on recent source code findings.
    5. Microsoft plans a large sales event in October, likely featuring discounts on Xbox gift cards, but many gamers feel disappointed by the reduced value of their saved points.

    The Microsoft Rewards program is slowly becoming less rewarding for its users. Recently, a new letdown has emerged: members will soon be unable to use their points to get Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. While Microsoft hasn’t formally announced this yet, numerous gamers have seen the same message on their rewards dashboards.

    Changes Coming Soon

    This alteration is set to start on October 1st, and Microsoft is advising players to buy Xbox gift cards instead. These cards can then be used to help cover the costs of Game Pass. Sadly, many gamers will find that they need to use more points to pay for their subscriptions. For instance, according to one Reddit user, a $20 gift card costs 19,000 points. In contrast, it used to be possible to redeem just 12,000 points for one month of Game Pass Ultimate.

    Earning Points is Tougher

    There are various ways for gamers to earn Microsoft Rewards, like completing quests in Xbox Game Pass titles. However, many fans feel that their hard work is going unnoticed. It now takes longer to gather points, and the chances to earn them have decreased.

    Rising Prices on the Horizon?

    In addition to these changes, there are worries about possible price hikes for Xbox Game Pass tiers. The last increase happened in July 2024. Although Microsoft hasn’t confirmed any upcoming increases for 2025, there have been hints of more bad news. In June, Better xCloud discovered source code suggesting that subscription prices might go up. Xbox consoles have already seen a significant price rise, and the services linked to them could follow suit.

    With the recent updates to the Microsoft Rewards program, many gamers are looking for discounts on Xbox gift cards. In October, Microsoft is planning a large sales event that will probably feature Xbox cards. Still, players who have saved points are noticing that there are fewer appealing ways to use them.

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  • Microsoft Launches Limited Surface Laptop 7 Smurface Edition

    Microsoft Launches Limited Surface Laptop 7 Smurface Edition

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has released a limited edition Surface Laptop 7, called the Smurface Edition, inspired by the new Smurfs film.
    2. The Smurface Edition is available only in a 13-inch size and features a Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.
    3. The laptop showcases unique Smurf-themed designs, including laser-etched Smurfs and a blue Surface logo.
    4. The price for the Smurface Edition is $999.99, the same as the regular model, with only 100 units available for purchase on Amazon.
    5. Users can also enter to win one of three Smurface Editions by completing Smurf-themed tasks through Microsoft Rewards.

    Microsoft has unveiled a unique version of the Surface Laptop 7, inspired by the newly released Smurfs film. This limited edition laptop is now up for grabs on Amazon, or you might stand a chance to win one directly from Microsoft.

    Specifications and Features

    The Surface Laptop 7 comes in three different sizes: 13 inches, 13.8 inches, and 15 inches. Nevertheless, the Smurface Edition is solely available in the 13-inch size, featuring a Snapdragon X Plus (8 core) processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.

    This specially themed Surface Laptop Smurface Edition showcases laser-etched Smurfs on its lid along with a blue Surface logo. Additionally, a Smurfs logo can be found at the bottom corner of the lid. Other than these visual tweaks, it is identical to the standard Platinum color variant.

    Pricing and Availability

    Now listed on Amazon for $999.99, the Surface Laptop Smurface Edition is priced the same as its regular counterpart. As stated in the Amazon listing, only 100 units are up for sale, so act fast if you want one.

    If purchasing isn’t your thing, you can also enter to win one. Microsoft Rewards is giving away three units, and to qualify, users must complete various Smurf-themed tasks to collect points for a free entry. These tasks include coding a retro arcade game with Smurf characters using Microsoft MakeCode, downloading Smurf-themed backgrounds for Microsoft Teams, and more. For complete details, check the source link.

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  • Extend Your Windows 10 Experience: Microsoft’s Three Options

    Extend Your Windows 10 Experience: Microsoft’s Three Options

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11.
    2. Windows 10 remains widely used, with 53% of computers globally still running this version.
    3. Extended Security Updates (ESU) will be available for individual users for $30, allowing an extra year of usage.
    4. Windows Backup can be used for free synchronization of data with the Microsoft cloud.
    5. The Microsoft Rewards program allows users to earn points for activities, which can be used for subscription benefits.

    Since it was introduced, Windows 10 has fulfilled the hopes of its users while providing state-of-the-art features. Yet, this service is set to end on October 14, paving the way for Windows 11. Microsoft has come up with three plans to extend your experience with the current version, ensuring you still get regular updates.

    Impact on Users

    This change will have significant implications for millions. As per StatCounter, Windows 10 remains the most prevalent version globally, with 53% of computers using this software. Moreover, Microsoft faces challenges in encouraging users to shift to Windows 11, particularly given the technical requirements that must be met to run this new software. Essentially, some users may find their computers inadequate for supporting this version.

    Options for Users

    As the deadline of October 14, 2025, draws nearer, the company has opted to provide various solutions for those who are still undecided. Consequently, the special Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, initially designed for businesses, will now be accessible to individual users. Specifically, for a fee of $30, you can gain an additional year of Windows 10 usage. Keep in mind, however, there won’t be any more extensions, and you’ll need to decide when the deadline arrives. For business users, the price is $61 per user.

    Alternative Solutions

    Another helpful option is utilizing Windows Backup. This feature allows you to synchronize your data with the Microsoft cloud, enabling you to access the ESU program without any costs involved.

    Finally, you might want to consider the Microsoft Rewards program. This initiative lets users earn points through activities like searching on Bing, playing Xbox games, or buying software from the official store. In this scenario, subscribing to the program requires just 1,000 reward points.

    In conclusion, the transition to Windows 11 appears unavoidable for all users, even after October 14, 2025. Consequently, millions will need to make a decision to ensure they enjoy enhanced security on a daily basis.

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  • Microsoft Launches Bing Video Creator in Bing Mobile App

    Microsoft Launches Bing Video Creator in Bing Mobile App

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has launched Bing Video Creator in its mobile app, allowing users to create videos from text prompts using OpenAI’s Sora AI for free.
    2. The service offers two speed settings for video generation: standard (unlimited) and fast (limited to 10 credits, with more available through Microsoft Rewards).
    3. Videos have a 9:16 aspect ratio, a maximum duration of 5 seconds, and are watermarked to indicate AI generation, with a 90-day download period before deletion.
    4. While AI technology for video creation is advancing, some outputs may appear strange or nonsensical, highlighting the need for further refinement.
    5. Users can expect better results with image generation, as that technology has been more thoroughly developed compared to video generation.

    Microsoft has introduced Bing Video Creator in its Bing mobile app, enabling users to create videos from text prompts at no cost, leveraging a modified version of OpenAI’s Sora AI. This video creation feature will soon be available on the Bing website and other platforms.

    Speed Options and Credits

    The service comes with two generation speed settings: standard and fast. Users are granted 10 fast credits for video creation. While an unlimited number of videos can be made on the standard speed setting, using the fast option beyond the initial credits relies on users earning more Microsoft Rewards points. For every hundred points earned, users can create one additional video.

    Video Specifications

    All videos produced through Bing Video Creator are restricted to a 9:16 aspect ratio and have a maximum duration of five seconds. Users can download their videos for a period of 90 days before they are automatically deleted, and each video is watermarked in accordance with C2PA standards to signify that they are AI-generated. This also means that videos, including those promoting LGBT content, can be traced back to their original creators.

    AI Advancements

    The technology behind AI text-to-video generation has progressed quickly, allowing current AI to transform written scenarios into realistic videos. However, as these models are still being refined, some outputs may display oddities. The Sora AI utilized in BVC has implemented restrictions to avoid the creation of harmful or unsafe content, but this seems to hinder its capacity to depict common actions accurately.

    In trials to produce videos of a dog drinking from a bowl, a cat grooming itself, and an anime girl savoring ice cream, the results were often nonsensical or failed to capture the intended activity. In contrast, a rival service, SuperMaker.AI, successfully generated videos that accurately portrayed the intended actions without bizarre visuals.

    Image Generation Expectations

    Users can anticipate more satisfactory results when generating images, as that AI technology has had more time for refinement. A book available on Amazon showcases numerous instances of the realistic art that AI can produce today.

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    Microsoft Launches Bing Video Creator in Bing Mobile AppMicrosoft Launches Bing Video Creator in Bing Mobile AppMicrosoft Launches Bing Video Creator in Bing Mobile AppMicrosoft Launches Bing Video Creator in Bing Mobile AppMicrosoft Launches Bing Video Creator in Bing Mobile App
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  • Microsoft Gives Away Free Xbox Gift Card Codes in Spring Sale 2025

    Microsoft Gives Away Free Xbox Gift Card Codes in Spring Sale 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xbox Spring Sale for 2025 offers discounts on over 1000 games until April 30th, with significant deals like Red Dead Redemption 2 at 80% off.

    2. Microsoft is giving away free gift card codes worth $5 or $10, but these are distributed randomly and may surprise inactive account holders.

    3. Players are encouraged to check their Xbox PC app or console messages for potential gift card promotions, as they might not be received by all users.

    4. The free gift card codes do not seem to reward customer loyalty, leading to dissatisfaction among regular players who feel overlooked.

    5. Earning points through the Microsoft Rewards system has become more difficult, especially after recent price hikes for Game Pass subscriptions.

    The Xbox Spring Sale for 2025 is currently happening, offering big discounts on more than 1000 games. However, this might not attract every gamer. To appeal to budget-conscious players, Microsoft is giving away free gift card codes valued at $5 or $10. Unfortunately, based on what users are saying on Reddit, these offers seem to come randomly. It’s a good idea for gamers to check their messages on the Xbox PC app or their console to see if they’ve received this promotion.

    Inactive Accounts Surprised

    Interestingly, even accounts that haven’t been active for a long time might get the Xbox gift card codes. Some gamers were taken aback to discover messages from Microsoft in accounts they hadn’t used in years. On the other hand, regular Xbox users who frequently buy and play games feel somewhat neglected in this situation.

    Sale Details and Discounts

    The current Xbox Spring Sale runs until April 30th, which means that the free codes could still appear. Microsoft has cut prices on games available for the Xbox console and Play Anywhere titles that can be played on PCs. Among the most attractive discounts is Red Dead Redemption 2, which is now 80% off at $14.99. Additionally, after fans expressed their discontent over the $49.99 Khaos Reigns expansion, fighting game lovers can get Mortal Kombat 1 with the DLC for just $29.69. The gift card codes from Microsoft can help lower these prices even further.

    Loyalty and Rewards Issues

    With the current Xbox sale, it seems that the free gift card codes are not based on customer loyalty. Instead, the Microsoft Rewards system lets players earn and use points on games or subscriptions. Sadly, it has become harder to earn these points. Many players felt let down when the automatic redemption for Game Pass became more expensive last April. These price hikes were a result of increased monthly subscription fees seen during the Summer of 2024.

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    Microsoft Gives Away Free Xbox Gift Card Codes in Spring Sale 2025

     

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  • Xbox Game Pass Prices Increasing for Microsoft Rewards Users

    Xbox Game Pass Prices Increasing for Microsoft Rewards Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass pricing will increase on April 20, impacting Microsoft Rewards members who use points for subscriptions.
    2. The points required for a monthly Game Pass subscription have risen, with some users now needing 20,000 points instead of the previous 14,000.
    3. The point requirement changes may vary based on the member’s level in the Microsoft Rewards system.
    4. Community backlash is evident on platforms like Reddit, with gamers expressing frustration over the increased difficulty in earning points.
    5. Despite the price hike, Microsoft continues to enhance Xbox Game Pass by adding popular titles and expanding Xbox Cloud Gaming access.

    Xbox Game Pass pricing saw a rise last July, and now it seems Microsoft Rewards members are feeling the impact. Players can earn reward points through various activities, like in-game tasks or buying items from the Microsoft Store. One way to use these points was to get Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. However, recent emails have informed some gamers that the auto-redemption for this service is about to become significantly pricier.

    Price Increase Notification

    For those who received the unfortunate email, a price hike will take effect on April 20. The message was directed at gamers who regularly use their points to automatically renew their Game Pass subscriptions. It’s still uncertain if these changes in the Microsoft Rewards program will affect players across all regions. Nonetheless, the new prices are already visible on the redemption sections within Xbox apps and on Microsoft’s official site.

    Changes to Point Requirements

    The number of points needed for a monthly Game Pass subscription varies based on whether a member is in Level 1 or Level 2 of the rewards system. For instance, two different point amounts are now being shown for the same subscription. Previously, the monthly auto-redemption for Game Pass Ultimate required 14,000 points, but there’s now an option that lists it at 20,000 points. It seems likely that by the time April 20 rolls around, gamers everywhere will need to use more points than before.

    Community Reaction

    Gamers on Reddit are not pleased with the new Xbox Game Pass pricing. Over time, collecting Microsoft Rewards points has become increasingly challenging. With this new points increase, keeping a Game Pass subscription may require using a credit card for most of the cost.

    In fair defense of Microsoft, the company continues to add big-name titles to the Xbox Game Pass lineup, including games like Avowed and F1 24. Furthermore, with Game Pass Ultimate, Xbox Cloud Gaming has broadened its range for PC, mobile devices, and smart televisions. However, the appeal of Microsoft Rewards is dwindling, even for the most loyal of players.

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    Xbox Game Pass Prices Increasing for Microsoft Rewards Users
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  • Microsoft Announces $1 Million Prize to Boost Bing Search Engine

    Microsoft Announces $1 Million Prize to Boost Bing Search Engine

    Microsoft is launching an exciting new sweepstake to attract users to its Bing search engine, offering a staggering $1 million in grand prizes. This initiative began on October 8 and targets participants from six regions: the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, and Puerto Rico.

    Enhancing User Engagement

    This new campaign expands on Microsoft’s current Rewards loyalty program, which rewards users with points for engaging with various Microsoft services and products. Upon registering on the sweepstakes website, participants receive five entries immediately and can accumulate up to 200 entries through increased interactions with the platform.

    Additional Prizes and Donations

    Besides the grand prize, Microsoft is also providing two runner-up awards of $10,000 each. In addition, they plan to donate as much as $500,000, shared between the World Wildlife Fund and UNICEF. For every participant who collects over 50 entries, Microsoft will contribute $5 to these charities.

    Competing with Google

    This sweepstake serves as Microsoft’s strategy to enhance Bing’s presence, especially now that OpenAI’s GPT-4 technology powers it, creating a more interactive and chat-like search experience. Despite these advancements, Bing still needs to significantly improve to compete with Google’s dominance in the search engine market.

    Individuals already enrolled in Microsoft Rewards can gain more entries by performing daily searches on Bing or using the Microsoft Edge browser. Typically, the Rewards program offers smaller incentives like Xbox Game Pass subscriptions or store gift cards, making this million-dollar prize a notable upgrade to attract a larger audience.

    A Challenge Ahead

    This promotional sweepstake highlights Microsoft’s determination to rival Google’s supremacy in the search engine arena. Yet, despite the substantial cash incentive, Microsoft may face a tough challenge in persuading users to shift their long-held loyalty to Google.

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