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Microsoft has come up with a novel way of getting you to start using Bing over Google, paying you to ditch the search giant.
Fancy a bit of extra money in your pocket this weekend? Well there’s a surprisingly easy way to get some extra cash.
All you need to do is stop using Google.
That’s because Microsoft has started paying UK internet users to ditch Google and start using its own search engine, Bing.
Instead of filling your wallet with crisp twenties, however, Microsoft will pay you in points that can be redeemed in the form of credit on a number of the company’s services.
The move comes as Microsoft opens up its Microsoft Rewards Programme outside of the US for the first time.
Available stateside for some time, the rewards initiative has now launched in the UK, giving you points for each and every Bing-based search you make.
Once you’ve collected enough, these points can then be used to cash in on different rewards, such as Xbox digital gift cards.
If gaming’s not your thing, Groove Music passes and Skype credits can also be redeemed.
Those aren’t your only options either. For those of you with a more generous temperaments, Microsoft has partnered with a number of charities to let you donate your unwanted points.
All you need to do to sign up for the rewards scheme is register your details n the Microsoft Rewards page.
Once registered, you’ll need to make sure you’re logged into your account while searching so as to avoid wasted internet sessions.
At first Bing users will get three points per search, although as an early initiative this is being doubled until August 15 for those using Microsoft’s own Edge browser.
With two status tiers available – Level 1 and Level 2 – those on the top tier can earn a maximum of 30 points per day, 60 if you’re on Edge.
As well as search-based points earnings, Microsoft will let you boost your points haul by participating in quizzes.
You will also receive one point for every pound spent in the Microsoft Store.
In order to level up to Level 2 and benefit from better rewards and the chance to earn up to 150 points a day, you’ll first need to earn 500 points in a single month.
“The points can be redeemed for a number of Microsoft offerings,” said Kevin Stagg, Microsoft’s head of consumer marketing.
“These might include free movies and music, or entry into large prize sweepstakes.”
Previous rewards that have been offered include exchanging 5,000 points for a custom Xbox One Design lab controller or 10,000 points for the Gears of War 4 Ultimate Edition.
While this may seem like a huge amount of points to exchange, the special edition Xbox One controllers can cost up to £60.
The Gears of War 4 Ultimate Edition for Xbox One on the Microsoft Store is currently selling for £79.99.
And these type of rewards can be obtained for free – if you just use Bing on a daily basis.
The Microsoft Rewards programme launched in the UK on June 1 – and it will also be rolled out in France, Germany and Canada in the next few months.
To go ahead and sign up for Microsoft Rewards Program, click the button below:
Source: Daily Star
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