The gaming community in the United States is facing yet another price hike for Xbox consoles. This increase comes just a few months after Microsoft implemented a significant price adjustment in May 2023, when the prices for the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X rose by amounts ranging from $80 to $130, depending on the specifications of the consoles. Unlike the previous global price hike, this latest increase will only affect U.S. customers, with Microsoft confirming that pricing in international markets will remain unchanged.
Starting on October 3rd, the new pricing structure for the Xbox console range in the U.S. will take effect. Here are the updated prices:
Xbox Series S 512GB: $399.99 (an increase of $20 from $379.99) Xbox Series S 1TB: $449.99 (up $20 from $429.99) Xbox Series X Digital: $599.99 (an increase of $50 from $549.99) Xbox Series X: $649.99 (up $50 from $599.99) Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition: $799.99 (an increase of $70 from $729.99)Microsoft has attributed these adjustments to "changes in the macroeconomic environment." While the company has not provided specific justifications for the price hikes, there are speculations that the current U.S. administration's import tariffs may be influencing the pricing structure. Despite these challenges, Microsoft has reported an impressive 18 percent increase in profits during its last earnings call, along with a 13 percent growth across its Xbox business.
In light of these changes, Microsoft reassured its customers that they will continue to focus on offering diverse gaming experiences. The company aims to provide players with more ways to play games across various screens, ensuring value for all Xbox enthusiasts. As the gaming landscape evolves, Microsoft remains dedicated to enhancing the overall gaming experience for its user base.
This price adjustment serves as a reminder for gamers to stay informed about the latest developments in the gaming industry and prepare for the upcoming changes to the Xbox console lineup.
