Microsoft Points to be phased out by end of year
Developers being briefed on currency change - report
Microsoft is set to phase out its proprietary virtual currency by the end of the year.
According to a report by Inside Mobile Apps, Microsoft Points will be replaced with real-world currency across Xbox Live, Windows Phone and the Zune Marketplace.
Microsoft currently uses a mix of real-world and MS Points for online payment, but developers with forthcoming downloadable content are being briefed to plan ahead for the change.
The move would bring Microsoft in line with other virtual stores such as Apple's App Store and Sony's PlayStation Network which use regional pricing. Critics of Microsoft Points argue that it's confusing and users can only buy set amounts, leading to the over purchase of currency.