Welcome back to Subscriptions Weekly! This time, we check the latest results of the FTC’s review of dark patterns in subscriptions. We also share Microsoft’s plans to hike the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and launch a new standard tier, the Hallmark+ subscription launch date, and insights on the streaming’s great re-bundling. 

FTC, ICPEN & GPEN announce results of dark patterns review in subscriptions 

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), along with the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) and the Global Privacy Enforcement Network (GPEN), found that nearly 67% of websites and apps utilized at least one dark pattern, raising significant concerns about their impact on consumer privacy and decision-making. Read more on Subscription Insider.

Microsoft is hiking the price of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate & launching a new tier

Microsoft is planning to hike its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate pricing again in September, alongside launching a new “standard” subscription that doesn’t include day-one access to first-party Xbox games. Subscribers have received the warning of a $3 increase over the current $16.99 monthly pricing. Read more on The Verge.

Hallmark to rebrand streaming service with movies, limited & unscripted series

Hallmark+ will launch in mid-September with the network’s wide selection of original movies and new scripted and unscripted series. With plans starting at $7.99/month or $79.99/year, subscribers will experience ad-free viewing, monthly coupons, free unlimited eCards, shopping rewards, and surprise gifts. Read more on The Wrap.

Streaming’s ‘great re-bundling’ has begun. What could this mean for subscribers?

Streaming appears poised to undergo what some have called “the great re-bundling,” with services merging, combining, or forming alliances. While that makes sense for studios eager to offer more robust and streamlined content, will it make access to at-home viewing options cheaper? Easier to navigate and find what subscribers want? Read more on CNN.

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From the Recurly blog