Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 get minor updates to online stores

Both Sony and Microsoft have made some changes to the online stores of their consoles. Microsoft has re-branded the Xbox 360’s Marketplace to Xbox Game Store. Sony, on the other hand, has added mobile billing as one of the methods of payment for US customers.

Now pay with your mobile phone!

Microsoft’s change, as minor as it might be, was made in an attempt to make the Xbox 360’s online store experience more consistent. Even though the Games section of the Xbox 360’s store was called Marketplace, the other stores were named Video Store, Music Store and Apps Store.

On the PlayStation 3 and Vita, users can add their mobile phones to be used as a method of payment. When users entier their mobile phone number, they will get a confirmation SMS to top up their PlayStation account. The amount will then be billed on the user’s next phone bill.

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A very minor update indeed (Image credit: Eurogamer)

Recently, the Xbox 360 got a dashboard update that completely phased out Microsoft Points as a currency. When attempting to buy something, the Xbox 360 will first convert any remaining Microsoft Points you might have into your local currency. This currency will then be available for use until June 1, 2015. You can then use this currency to buy any game or add-on from Xbox Live. If you buy any Microsoft Points cards in retail stores, the point value of these cards get converted into local currency when redeemed.

Both Sony and Microsoft seem keen on making their online store experiences better with the launch of the next-gen consoles looming over their heads.