Microsoft to add monthly cloud gaming limits for Xbox Game Pass

Microsoft said Xbox Game Pass subscribers will face monthly cloud gaming limits starting in November, ending the service’s unlimited access model. The company said the change is meant to better match usage with the rising cost of cloud computing. Under the new plan, Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will get 15 hours of cloud gaming per month for $22.99. Premium subscribers will receive 10 hours for $14.99, while Essential subscribers will get five hours for $9.99. Microsoft said users can pay for extra hours, but it did not disclose pricing. The shift comes as Microsoft looks for ways to manage costs and improve profitability across its products. The company has already been testing other usagebased and adsupported models in parts of its business. Microsoft said only a small share of Game Pass subscribers use cloud gaming heavily, and nonsubscribers will still be able to buy cloud gaming time for games they already own.