In a recent blow to the Microsoft Rewards program and Xbox users, Microsoft has expanded its 15-minute search cooldown to more territories, including the US and UK.

The Microsoft Rewards program has faced significant nerfs in recent months, with changes such as removing points for Edge searches, reducing points for certain tasks on the Rewards homepage, implementing a seven-second interval search cooldown, and decreasing points for various punch cards and tasks on Xbox. However, the latest change that limits users to only three Microsoft Bing searches every 15 minutes has sparked outrage among Microsoft Rewards fans.

Initially introduced in countries like Brazil and Mexico, the 15-minute cooldown feature has now been rolled out in several more regions including the US, UK, and certain countries in Europe. This development has caused frustration among program users, many of whom have taken to the Microsoft Rewards subreddit to express their disappointment. Some individuals have even stated their intentions to cash out their accumulated points and quit the program altogether.

While the search function may no longer offer a worthwhile incentive, there are still other ways to earn Microsoft Rewards points. Xbox users can engage in Xbox Game Pass Quests, complete tasks in the Xbox mobile app, and maintain weekly streaks through the Rewards app on Xbox consoles. However, there are speculations that these alternatives may also undergo changes or be discontinued in the future.

The recent alterations to the Microsoft Rewards program have received mixed reactions. Some users are contemplating whether or not to continue participating in the program, while others remain loyal despite the cooldown implementation. The true impact of these modifications on the long-term sustainability and popularity of the program remains to be seen.

It is worth noting that Sean, an enthusiast of Xbox and achievements, is among those impacted by the cooldown. Sean, who holds a degree in journalism from Solent University, has dedicated his free time to playing the best RPGs, racing games, and first-person shooters available through Xbox Game Pass.

As Microsoft Rewards continues to evolve, users and enthusiasts are eager to see if the program will adapt further to address the concerns raised by its loyal community.