Microsoft Increases Xbox Console Prices in Europe
Microsoft has raised the prices of its Xbox Series S and X game consoles in Europe, with increases of up to 200 euros. The new prices, effective August 1, are attributed to ongoing component shortages and rising costs.
Microsoft has implemented price increases for its Xbox Series S and X game consoles in Europe and the United Kingdom. The adjustments, which took effect on August 1, are reportedly due to persistent supply chain issues affecting components like memory and storage, leading to higher production costs.
In Europe, the price hikes range up to 200 euros for certain models. For instance, the Xbox Series S 1TB model has seen its price rise from 400 euros to 600 euros. Both versions of the Xbox Series X 1TB model have also been affected, with the digital edition increasing from 550 euros to 750 euros, and the disc version from 600 euros to 800 euros.
In the UK, the price increases amount to up to 170 pounds. The Xbox Series S 1TB model is now priced around 520 pounds, up from 350 pounds. The Xbox Series X 1TB, both digital and disc versions, has increased from 450 pounds to approximately 620 pounds and from 500 pounds to 670 pounds, respectively.
The price hikes occur as competitor Sony has also increased the cost of its PlayStation 5 consoles. The sales gap between the consoles has widened significantly this generation, with PlayStation holding a substantial lead. Microsoft appears to be prioritizing profitability and growth in its active player base over subsidizing hardware sales.