Microsoft to Increase Prices for Office Subscriptions in the Asia-Pacific Region
- Price Increase Announcement: Microsoft has informed users of its Microsoft 365 office subscription in six Asia-Pacific countries that prices will rise upon renewal, according to a report by The Register citing customer communications.
- Affected Regions: The price hike has been noted in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Taiwan.
- Reason for the Increase: Microsoft stated that the price adjustment ensures customers "are among the first to access powerful AI features in applications."
- Examples of New Pricing in Australia:
- Family Subscription: Annual cost will increase from AUD 139 to AUD 179 (approximately USD 85.50 to USD 110).
- Personal Subscription: Annual cost will rise from AUD 109 to AUD 159 (approximately USD 67 to USD 98).
- Justification: Microsoft explained that the price changes reflect the benefits added to the subscription over the past 12 years.
- Other Regions: The company has not clarified whether these changes will extend to other countries.
- Alternative Option: Microsoft claims users can opt for a version of Microsoft 365 without Copilot to avoid the price hike. However, The Register notes that this option is difficult to find and is only visible during subscription cancellation.