Microsoft to Automatically Cancel Inactive Game Pass Subscriptions

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Image: Microsoft

Microsoft will begin automatically canceling Game Pass subscriptions that are no longer used and have fallen into a state of dormancy.

This is all thanks to UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), which had launched an investigation into Microsoft’s Xbox subscription practices and determined that they were less than ideal for consumers. In addition to the change regarding inactive memberships, Microsoft has also been prompted to better detail its auto-renewal process for members, among other improvements.

The complete list of changes, per the CMA:

  • Better upfront information: Microsoft will provide more transparent, upfront information to help customers understand their Xbox membership–making clear, for example, that the subscription will auto-renew unless the customer turns off auto-renewal; when the subscription will auto-renew; how much it will cost; and how the customer can receive a refund after an accidental renewal
  • Refunds: Microsoft will contact existing customers on recurring 12-month contracts and give them the option to end their contract and claim a pro-rata refund
  • Inactive memberships: Microsoft will also contact existing customers who haven’t used their memberships for a long time but are still paying. These customers will be reminded how to stop payments, and if they continue not to use their memberships, Microsoft will ultimately stop taking further payments
  • Better information about price increases: Microsoft will give clearer notifications of any future price rises, and will ensure people know how to turn off auto-renewal if they don’t want to pay the higher price

“Gamers need to be given clear and timely information to make informed choices when signing up for auto-renewing memberships and subscriptions,” said Michael Grenfell, Executive Director of Enforcement at the CMA. “We are therefore pleased that Microsoft has given the CMA these formal undertakings to improve the fairness of their practices and protect consumers, and will be offering refunds to certain customers.”

“Other companies offering memberships and subscriptions that auto-renew should take note, and review their practices to ensure they comply with consumer protection law.”

While the CMA is a UK-based agency, a Microsoft spokesperson has told PC Gamer that these changes will be “available globally soon.”

Source: CMA (via PC Gamer)

Tsing Mui
News poster at The FPS Review.

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