Xbox Live price hike coming for six countries next month
The price of an Xbox Live Gold subscription in a variety of countries is set to increase next month, bringing the cost in-line with the rest of paying subscribers around the world.
Game Informer have reported that South Africa, Sweden, Austria, Turkey, Hungary and Israel will all receive price increases on June 20. In South Africa, a one month subscription to Microsoft’s online service currently costs 50 rands (£2.21). This price is set to more than triple after the hike, costing 159 rands (£7.02) and bringing the cost of the service closer to the global average.
“We occasionally update pricing in a given market to provide a balance of service and value, and in some instances, meet currency fluctuations within the region, and will be adjusting the price of Xbox Live Gold subscription in a small number of markets on June 20, 2016,” Microsoft said. “We do so always keeping in mind that our goal is to offer our members the premium gaming and entertainment service at a fair price.”
Strangely, Austria, a country which uses the Euro, will see an increase too while all other Euro-using countries remain the same. Microsoft commented on this, saying: “This is based on market rather than currency, and the new price in Austria aligns with other European markets. We occasionally update pricing to provide a balance of service and value. Xbox Live Gold codes are not region-locked. Customers may redeem any Xbox Live code regardless of where it was purchased.”
The price increases take effect on June 20.
