Microsoft Weekly: Windows 11 25H2 Rolls Out and Game Pass Gets More Expensive
Microsoft has had a busy week, with two major updates making headlines — the release of Windows 11 version 25H2 and a significant price hike for Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. Let’s take a closer look at what’s changing, what’s new, and how it affects users.
🪟 Windows 11 Version 25H2 Is Out
Microsoft officially rolled out Windows 11, version 25H2, marking another milestone in its ongoing update cycle. However, this release is less about new features and more about stability, performance, and lifecycle renewal.
Key Details
- Type of release: 25H2 arrives as an enablement package, meaning the features were already present in 24H2 and are now simply being activated.
- Feature count: There are no major new features introduced with this update. The focus is on optimization and cleaning up older components.
- Lifecycle reset: Installing 25H2 extends the support window — Home and Pro editions get another 24 months of updates.
- System cleanup: Legacy components like PowerShell 2.0 and WMIC are removed to streamline the OS.
- Deployment: The update is available via Windows Update for eligible devices and can also be deployed using Intune or WSUS for managed environments.
Why It Matters
For IT admins and enterprise users, this release is relatively low-risk. Since it’s a small enablement update, compatibility issues are minimal. It’s also a great opportunity to rebaseline systems for long-term support.
🎮 Xbox Game Pass Prices Are Going Up
The second major story this week is less welcome — Xbox Game Pass is getting more expensive. Microsoft announced a tier restructuring and price increases across all subscription levels.
What’s Changing
- New tiers:
- Core becomes Essential
- Standard becomes Premium
- Ultimate remains, but with higher cost
- Price increases:
- Game Pass Ultimate: $19.99 → $29.99/month
- PC Game Pass: $11.99 → $16.49/month
- Effective date: October 2025, with regional variations.
New Additions to Offset the Hike
Microsoft says the price changes reflect added value:
- Expanded game library, including Ubisoft+ Classics
- Cloud gaming improvements (now supports 1440p streaming)
- More day-one releases (75+ titles per year)
- Better integration with Microsoft Rewards
The Catch
While hardcore gamers may appreciate the added content, casual players might find it hard to justify the higher cost. The shift seems aimed at boosting average revenue per user (ARPU) as the service matures.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Between a quiet Windows release and a noisy Game Pass change, Microsoft’s week shows two sides of its business strategy:
- Windows 11 25H2 is about long-term stability and modernization — ideal for admins and enterprise users who value predictability.
- Game Pass price hikes are about monetization and expanding services — beneficial to some, frustrating to others.
Overall, it’s a reminder that Microsoft continues to balance enterprise dependability with consumer revenue growth.
