Microsoft cuts Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to $22.99 from $29.99 and PC Game Pass to $13.99, but ends day-one releases for future Call of Duty titles. The move addresses CEO Asha Sharma's concerns over high pricing amid subscriber backlash from recent hikes.
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The Verge: The Xbox Nano controller will launch tomorrow with an unannounced direct Wi-Fi connection to Xbox Cloud Gaming servers. The feature aims to cut latency and is expected to appear on the Elite 3 controller as well.
Bloomberg reports that Ubisoft and at least two other gaming companies have made offers to buy Arkane Studios from Microsoft's Xbox, which has also weighed a sale to the studio's management. No deal has been agreed.
A union delegate told Le Monde that Arkane Lyon faces closure by November 13 unless a buyer is found, with 217 jobs at risk. Microsoft says it is still exploring options and seeking a partner for the studio's next project.
Fortune reports that Xbox has layoff rounds planned for October, November and January. CEO Asha Sharma has cut 1,868 people so far as part of plans to reduce headcount by 3,200 over the next year, and Fortune notes layoff plans can change.
Xbox is planning a major overhaul of Game Pass that would let players choose features à la carte, including add-ons for console-only games, cloud gaming and multiplayer, while keeping a tiered structure, Fortune reported, citing people familiar with the strategy. Microsoft has not announced the change.
