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SONY RAISES PLAYSTATION PLUS SHORT-TERM PRICES

AI DESK1 MIN READ
MON, MAY 18, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 4 SOURCES ▸ TIMELINE

Sony is increasing prices for short-term PlayStation Plus subscriptions starting May 20th, citing market conditions. One-month subscriptions jump to $10.99 USD, while three-month plans reach $27.99 USD.

The price hike affects multiple regions. In the US, one-month Essential tier subscriptions rise by $1, and three-month plans increase by $3. European pricing shifts to €9.99 and €27.99 respectively, with UK prices at £7.99 and £21.99. Sony attributes the adjustment to "ongoing market conditions," a standard corporate explanation for subscription price increases. The changes apply to short-term plans only; longer-term subscription pricing remains unspecified. This marks another pricing adjustment in the subscription gaming space. PlayStation Plus Essential remains the entry-level tier, with Premium and Extra tiers available at higher price points. The move continues industry trends of incremental price increases across streaming and gaming services.

■ SOURCES

EngadgetThe VergeThe VergeEngadget

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

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