Microsoft has started showing Xbox users a full-screen notification when they boot up their consoles. The message highlights changes coming to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and informs subscribers that the subscription price “will update in applicable regions” in early November.
The interstitial screen appeared across Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles the day after Microsoft announced a significant price increase for Game Pass Ultimate. In the United States, the monthly cost is jumping from $19.99 to $29.99 starting in early November. That represents a roughly 50% increase, though exact pricing and timing vary by region.
The notification includes two buttons. One labeled “View my plan” takes users directly to their subscription management page. The other says “Got it” and dismisses the screen. Based on user reports, the notice appears once per account and doesn’t come back after being dismissed.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate bundles access to the Game Pass library on both console and PC, Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming, online multiplayer, and EA Play membership. It’s Microsoft’s premium subscription tier, and it’s been subject to multiple price increases since 2023.
The full-screen format isn’t new for Xbox. Microsoft has used similar interstitials before for major game launches and system updates. This time, the company is using it to comply with consumer protection guidelines that require advance notice before charging customers higher prices.
Take control before November
Users who want to review their options can head to Settings > Account > Subscriptions on their console. Alternatively, they can visit account.microsoft.com to switch plans, disable recurring billing, or cancel entirely.
The timing of the notification has sparked mixed reactions. Some appreciate the heads-up before the new charges hit. Others argue the screen downplays the price increase by focusing on “updated features” rather than leading with the cost change. The notice does mention the price update, though it’s not the most prominent text on the screen.
