Microsoft Confirms Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Price Increase Delay in Some Countries — but Not the U.S. or UK

Microsoft has announced a delay in the price increase for its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription in certain countries, but the change will still go into effect in the U.S. and UK. The price increase, which was originally scheduled to take effect on August 23rd, 2023, will now be postponed in regions like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. However, subscribers in the U.S. and UK will face the higher prices as planned. The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, which provides access to a library of games, cloud gaming, and other benefits, will see its price rise from $14.99 to $16.99 per month in the affected regions where the increase has been delayed. Microsoft cited "local market conditions" as the reason for the postponement in some countries, but did not provide further details. The company's decision to implement the price hike in the U.S. and UK as originally announced has not been explained.