Microsoft Increases Xbox Console Prices in Europe and UK
Microsoft Increases Xbox Console Prices in Europe and UK
Updated at: August 4, 2026 at 04:45 AM
On August 1, 2026, Microsoft introduced significant price hikes for its Xbox Series X and Series S consoles across the UK and Europe.
This global adjustment reflects the company's struggle with rising production costs.
For instance, the Xbox Series X (1TB) now costs €799.99 in the EU and £669.99 in the UK.
Meanwhile, Microsoft has discontinued its 2TB console models.
The primary driver behind these increases is the surging cost of storage and memory components, which have more than doubled in price.
Analysts suggest this is partly due to the 'AI Tax,' as the rapid growth of AI data centers has created intense competition for the same high-performance memory used in gaming consoles.
Microsoft explained that it could no longer absorb these costs, especially as consoles often operate on very thin profit margins.
While gamers have expressed frustration, especially with major titles like Grand Theft Auto VI on the horizon, Microsoft maintains that these adjustments are necessary to navigate the current component crisis.
