Microsoft has confirmed that it will be increasing the price of Xbox Live Gold in Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom and the United States.

From November 1st 2010, the price of an annual Xbox Live Gold subscription will increase from $49.99 to $59.99 in the US. Monthly charges will also rise to $9.99, up from $7.99.

In the UK, it only appears to be the monthly cost that's set to increase, rising from £4.99 to £5.99 a month.

There's no word on a price increase for an annual Gold subscription in the UK.

"Since launching Xbox LIVE in 2002 we have continually added more content and entertainment experiences for our members, while keeping the price the same," said Microsoft's Major Nelson.

"We're confident that when the new pricing takes effect, an Xbox LIVE Gold membership will continue to offer the best value in the industry."

An annual Xbox Live Gold subscription in the UK currently costs £39.99.

A free Silver service will continue to be available.

Source

Surprised it took them so long!!

Well that sucks.  Luckily, a few weeks ago, they offered XBL for $33 dollars on when I logged in to Xbox Live (the offer was on the front page).  I took advantage of that offer.  I won't be charged until my current subscription runs out, too.  I expect a lot of backlash from fans, though.

12 months in the UK stays the same from the looks of things. Bend over and take your medicine, US.

I don't think it will, I expect a £10 rise yearly for the UK.

They want more $ out of their biggest market lol.

bait and switch......... MS cuts it pretty close for the 360 bundles, but charges more (now) for online.  

Ugh, that would make £50 a year just to play Halo: Reach. It's the only reason I renew XBL now.

It's a big enough increase to piss people off but not big enough to stop a large chunk of the XBL userbase from renewing. Shrewd buggers.

It shouldn't piss anyone off with a shred of logic in their brain.

Greedy mother fuckers, fuck you MS.

You barely gave us a reason to spend $50 (or $30 for people who buy them online) let alone $60??  You really think people give a flying fuck about Netflix,Facebook,Live FM or shitty ESPN.

Take REACH, and Gears your only two exclusives and shove them up your greedy ass.

/Endrant

btw Pacther was right about this ,sweet!