Microsoft is testing a new pricing model for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate in the United States, and subscribers who have lapsed or rarely use the service might see lower monthly bills. This targeted approach could save users significant money compared to the standard rate, though the discounts are not available to everyone. We are seeing reports of offers as low as $16.09 per month, which is a notable drop from the standard price. If you have not logged in recently, you might want to check your account for these special rates.
Microsoft tests lower monthly rates for former subscribers
The service in question is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which bundles console and PC game access with cloud gaming capabilities. Microsoft appears to be using past subscription behavior to determine eligibility for these reduced rates. Users who previously canceled or let their subscriptions expire are the primary targets for these offers. This strategy aims to win back customers who have drifted away from the platform.
Reddit users have shared screenshots of their checkout pages showing these discounted annual subscription offers. One user reported a price of $16.09 per month, which saves approximately $83 over a twelve-month period compared to the standard rate. Other users have reported offers around $18 per month and $20 per month. These figures represent significant discounts from the standard monthly cost.
The standard price for an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription is $22.99 per month in the United States. The discounted offers effectively reduce the monthly cost by $3 to $6.90 depending on the specific tier offered. Microsoft has not officially confirmed this pricing strategy or the criteria for eligibility. The company has not released a statement regarding these targeted discounts.
We looked at the last Xbox Game Pass update earlier while tracking library changes, and this pricing shift adds another layer to the service's current evolution. The focus on lapsed subscribers suggests Microsoft is prioritizing retention over new user acquisition for this specific cohort. These offers appear to be limited to the US market based on current reports.
Microsoft is currently testing personalized pricing for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate in the US market. The discounts are targeted at former or occasional subscribers and range from $16.09 to $20 per month. The standard price remains $22.99 per month. These offers are unconfirmed by Microsoft and based on user reports.
Source: Xbox Game Pass, NotebookCheck
