Microsoft is modernizing the activation experience for perpetual licenses. Beginning December 3, 2025, the traditional telephone-based product activation automation process has been moved from telephone to online. Customers will instead use the Product Activation Portal: Product Activation Portal The new digital workflow provides a more secure, reliable, and user‑friendly activation ...

Here are the most likely causes for an unrecognized charge: A Microsoft subscription has recurring billing enabled. Someone you know, such as a family member, bought something with your card. You can now investigate this on the Manage your payments page. A previously declined charge was charged again. A pre-order or split order was shipped. Someone made an in-app purchase from an app, game, or ...

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An Xbox Game Pass Essential, Premium, or Ultimate subscription or a supported free-to-play game is required for cloud gaming.

Learn how to activate Windows using a product key or digital license, check your activation status, and link your Microsoft account.

Learn how to use mobile operator billing as a payment option to buy Xbox subscriptions, games, and other content.

Contact Microsoft Support. Find solutions to common problems, or get help from a support agent.

Learn how to redeem a Microsoft/Xbox gift card or other code or offer on your mobile device, Windows device, or Xbox console.

The Microsoft Authenticator app helps you sign into your accounts when you're using two-step verification.

Learn how to set up Xbox Cloud Gaming on your Android phone or tablet. Includes steps for installing the Xbox app, using invite links, and streaming games with Game Pass Ultimate.