Microsoft delays Xbox Game Pass price hike for existing subscribers in "certain countries," but only "for now" and not for the US or UK

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Microsoft contacted Xbox Game Pass subscribers in some regions to inform them that the service's recently announced subscription price hike will not take effect immediately for existing subs, but that new subscriptions will still be subject to the new rates.

In a statement to The Verge, Microsoft confirms some (often translated) emails that have been floating around online today, October 7. This price freeze will only hold "for now," it seems, evidently in response to regional regulations that prohibit abrupt rate increases.

Microsoft notes that US and UK subscribers didn't receive this email because this momentary delay doesn't affect them. We'll still be charged $30 a month for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate going forward over here. So if you're in the US or UK and canceled your sub when the higher price was revealed, but now you're kicking yourself thinking you missed out on this renewal deal, don't. You weren't getting a better rate anyway.

"Current subscribers in certain countries will continue renewing at their existing price for now, in line with local requirements," Microsoft affirms in its statement. "We’ll provide advance notice before price adjustments take effect in these countries."