Microsoft Accepts Credit Cards For Zune.net Music Purchases

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Four years after Microsoft introduced their ‘Microsoft Points’ – the virtual currency used in the Xbox Live Marketplace and Zune music store – they’re now offering an alternative. Customers who purchase music through Bing or Zune.net can now use a credit card directly in place of purchasing Microsoft Points.

Microsoft Points were first unveiled for use on the Xbox 360′s Xbox Live Marketplace – and were later rolled out for purchase on the Zune music store. Microsoft likes them because it helps them cut back on the cost of credit card transactions. Unfortunately, consumers aren’t fond of them and some have accused Microsoft of supporting them because it’s easy for them to disguise the real cost of purchases.

Microsoft recently combined Zune and Bing, now allowing music purchases through Bing as well as Zune.net. These new sources will accept credit cards, instead of forcing customers to purchase more dreaded Microsoft Points. Why’s that?

In a comment to Ars Technica, a Microsoft spokesperson said:

Microsoft has not eliminated the use of Microsoft Points with the announcement of Zune music on Bing and the addition of the new Zune.net MP3 store. Customers who choose to purchase music through Bing or the Zune.net MP3 store can use either a credit card or Microsoft Points. Customers who purchase music or videos through the Zune Marketplace will need to use Microsoft Points. Zune Pass subscribers can also download music to keep by redeeming their credits—through the Zune Marketplace or the Zune.net MP3 store.

So, unfortunately – it appears that only the web-based Bing and Zune.net will accept credit cards. The app based Zune Marketplace and the video game Xbox Live Marketplace will still require use of Microsoft Points. Good news for those who plan on buying music through the web, small consultation for those who hoped that Xbox Live would be free from Microsoft Points.