Not All Xbox Game Pass Subscribers Will Face Price Hike: Microsoft Grants Exceptions in Select Countries
Wednesday, October 08, 2025Not All Xbox Game Pass Subscribers Will Face Price Hike: Microsoft Grants Exceptions in Select Countries
In a surprising turn of events, Microsoft has revealed that not all Xbox Game Pass subscribers will be immediately affected by the recently announced price increases. The company, which just last week announced a massive 50% price hike for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, is now granting temporary exemptions to existing subscribers in certain countries who maintain auto-renewal on their subscriptions.
The Original Price Increase Announcement
What Was Announced
On October 1, 2025, Microsoft announced significant price increases for its Game Pass services:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: Increased from $19.99 to $29.99 per month (50% increase)
- PC Game Pass: Increased from $9.99 to $14.99 per month (50% increase)
- Xbox Game Pass Core (formerly Live Gold): Increased from $9.99 to $12.99 per month (30% increase)
The company stated that these changes would take effect immediately for new subscribers and would apply to existing subscribers on their next billing cycle, with many expecting to see the new prices as early as November 2024.
The Unexpected Exception
Who's Protected (For Now)
Just days after the initial announcement, Microsoft began sending emails to existing Game Pass subscribers in select countries, informing them that they would be exempt from the price increases—at least temporarily.
Countries currently confirmed to be exempt:
- Germany
- Ireland
- Poland
- Austria
- Italy
- South Korea
- Israel
- India
The exemption applies specifically to existing subscribers who have auto-renewal enabled on their subscriptions. These users will continue to pay their current rates rather than being forced to accept the new pricing structure.
Microsoft's Official Statement
What Microsoft Is Saying
Kari Perez, head of Xbox communications, provided an official statement to The Verge:
"Our recent Game Pass update remains unchanged. Current subscribers in certain countries will continue renewing at their existing price for now, in line with local requirements. We'll provide advance notice before price adjustments take effect in these countries."
The emails being sent to affected subscribers elaborate further:
"Recently, you may have heard about changes to the price of Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. At this time, these increases will only affect new purchases and will not affect your current subscription for the market in which you reside, as long as you are on an auto-recurring plan. Should you choose to cancel your plan and repurchase, you will be charged at the new current rate. If for any reason there may be changes to your existing account, we will notify you at least 60 days in advance and you will have the option to cancel or change your subscription plan at any time."
Why the Regional Differences?
Consumer Protection Laws and Local Regulations
The regional exceptions appear to be primarily driven by local consumer protection laws and regulations, particularly in European Union countries. Many EU nations have strict rules about subscription service price changes, often requiring:
- Advanced Notice: Companies must provide significant advance warning (typically 60+ days) before changing subscription prices
- Opt-Out Rights: Consumers must be given the opportunity to cancel without penalty if they don't agree to new terms
- Auto-Renewal Protections: Special rules apply to automatically renewing subscriptions
Microsoft's approach seems designed to comply with these regulations while still moving forward with their global pricing strategy. The company is essentially grandfathering existing subscribers in these regions while applying the new prices to new customers.
Key Details of the Exemption
What You Need to Know
Who Qualifies for the Exemption?
- Existing subscribers in the specified countries
- Users with auto-renewal enabled on their subscriptions
- Those who maintain continuous subscription without cancellation
Who Doesn't Qualify?
- New subscribers (everyone pays the new rates)
- Subscribers in countries not on the exemption list (including US and UK)
- Users who have auto-renewal disabled
- Anyone who cancels and then resubscribes
How Long Will the Exemption Last?
Microsoft has indicated this is a temporary measure. The company states they will provide "at least 60 days advance notice" before implementing price changes in these countries, meaning the exemption could end at any time with proper warning.
What Happens If You Cancel?
If you cancel your subscription and try to resubscribe later, you will be charged the new, higher rates. The exemption only applies to continuous, unbroken subscriptions.
Regional Price Examples
Before vs. After in Exempt Countries
| Country | Old Price | New Price | Existing Subscribers Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | €17.99 | €26.99 | €17.99 (for now) |
| Ireland | €17.99 | €26.99 | €17.99 (for now) |
| Poland | 44.99 PLN | 67.49 PLN | 44.99 PLN (for now) |
| India | ₹499 | ₹749 | ₹499 (for now) |
| South Korea | ₩18,600 | ₩27,900 | ₩18,600 (for now) |
What This Means for Subscribers
Practical Implications
If You're in an Exempt Country:
- Keep Auto-Renewal On: This is crucial to maintaining your current rate
- Don't Cancel: If you cancel, you'll lose your grandfathered rate
- Watch for Notifications: Microsoft will notify you before raising your rates
- Consider Long-Term Subscriptions: Some users are exploring multi-year subscriptions to lock in current rates
If You're Not in an Exempt Country:
- US and UK Subscribers: You will face the price increase on your next billing cycle
- No Grandfathering: Microsoft has not announced similar protections for these markets
- Consider Your Options: Evaluate whether the service remains worth the higher price
Community Reaction
How Gamers Are Responding
Positive Reactions in Exempt Countries:
Many subscribers in the protected countries have expressed relief on social media and forums. One German user reported: "Same with PC Gamepass in Germany, signed up for it when it was 9,99€, still paying 9,99€ after the increase to 11,99€ and got an email that the price will remain at 9,99€ instead of the new 14,99€ for me."
Frustration in Non-Exempt Countries:
Subscribers in countries not on the exemption list, particularly the US and UK, have expressed frustration at what they perceive as unequal treatment. Many are questioning why Microsoft can't apply similar grandfathering policies globally.
Confusion and Uncertainty:
There's widespread confusion about who exactly qualifies for the exemption and how long it will last. Some users in exempt countries report not receiving the email, while others in non-exempt countries are hoping for similar protections.
The Bigger Picture
What This Reveals About Microsoft's Strategy
Global vs. Local Approach
This situation highlights Microsoft's challenge in implementing a global pricing strategy while respecting local regulations and market conditions. The company is attempting to standardize pricing worldwide but must adapt to regional legal frameworks.
Consumer Protection Impact
The regional differences demonstrate how consumer protection laws, particularly in the EU, can influence corporate pricing strategies. These laws are designed to protect consumers from sudden, unexpected price increases in subscription services.
Future of Subscription Services
This situation may set a precedent for how other subscription services handle global price increases. As more companies adopt subscription models, navigating international regulations will become increasingly important.
What Should Subscribers Do?
Recommended Actions
For Subscribers in Exempt Countries:
- Check Your Email: Look for communications from Microsoft about your subscription status
- Ensure Auto-Renewal is Enabled: This is key to maintaining your current rate
- Consider Long-Term Options: Some users are purchasing multiple years of subscription to lock in current rates
- Monitor Communications: Keep an eye out for notifications about future price changes
For Subscribers in Non-Exempt Countries:
- Evaluate Value: Consider whether Game Pass remains worth the increased price
- Look for Deals: Search for discounted subscription cards or promotional offers
- Consider Alternatives: Explore other gaming subscription services or purchasing models
- Provide Feedback: Let Microsoft know your thoughts on the price increase
For All Subscribers:
- Review Your Subscription: Check your current rate and renewal settings
- Set Reminders: Keep track of when your subscription renews
- Stay Informed: Follow official Microsoft channels for updates
Conclusion
The Bottom Line
Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass price increase has created a complex landscape of regional exemptions and consumer protections. While the company moves forward with its global pricing strategy, local regulations in countries like Germany, Ireland, Poland, and others are providing temporary relief for existing subscribers.
This situation highlights several important points:
- Consumer Protection Matters: Regional laws can significantly impact corporate pricing strategies
- Auto-Renewal is Key: Maintaining continuous subscription is crucial for grandfathered rates
- Global Challenges: Companies must navigate complex international regulations when implementing global changes
- Temporary Relief: Current exemptions are not permanent and will eventually end
For Xbox Game Pass subscribers, the message is clear: if you're in an exempt country, ensure auto-renewal is enabled to maintain your current rate. If you're not in an exempt country, prepare for the price increase and evaluate whether the service remains worth the higher cost.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve with subscription-based models, situations like this will likely become more common. The balance between corporate pricing strategies and consumer protections will remain a key issue for subscribers and companies alike.
This article is based on official statements from Microsoft, emails sent to subscribers, and reports from reputable gaming news outlets. The situation is evolving, and Microsoft may provide additional updates or changes to their policy. Always check official Microsoft sources for the most current information regarding your subscription.