That’s a nice gesture
Microsoft made substantial changes to the Xbox Live Gold subscription program yesterday. Because it’s altered a service that people paid for in advance, Microsoft’s giving customers an out in the event that they’re unhappy with the revisions.
Because many applications (like Netflix and Hulu) no longer require Xbox Live Gold to be able to access, Microsoft is offering pro-rated refunds for any subscribers that may have been maintaining their Gold status simply for access to these apps. According to a FAQ on Xbox’s website, the refund can be requested once the system update goes live in June. Users then have until the end of August to take advantage of this.
Of course, anyone that goes through with this won’t be able to cash in on the newly announced Xbox One Games With Gold program, possibly giving some people incentive to stay. For those who use their console more like a Netflix-box than anything else, here’s a nice opportunity to put a bit of money back in your pocket.
Xbox Live Gold changes frequently asked questions [Xbox via GamesIndustry International]