Phil Spencer steps in and ensures Microsoft staff will keep free Xbox Game Pass Phil Spencer has now apparently undone the decision which would cause many Microsoft employees to lose the benefit of free Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions.Heidi Nicholas Published 03 Nov 2023 FollowtopicsXbox Game PassHeidi Nicholas Update: November 11A report recently surfaced that suggested permanent Microsoft employees (who weren't part of the Xbox and Microsoft Gaming teams) would soon lose access to a free Xbox Game Pass Ultimate benefit. Now, The Verge reports that Xbox boss Phil Spencer has stepped in to undo this decision. The Verge shared Spencer's message, which was reportedly internally sent to Microsoft employees: "After looking into this more with the team, I just want to confirm that no change will be made to Game Pass availability in 2024. If you have access to the Game Pass offer today you will continue to have access. I appreciate the time to get up to speed and sorry for the questions and confusion created. And thanks for supporting Xbox."Original story:It seems that Microsoft was offering free Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions to its permanent employees but that many of those who aren't specifically part of the Xbox and Microsoft Gaming teams will soon lose this benefit. Microsoft has reportedly informed permanent employees that aren't part of the Xbox and Microsoft Gaming teams that they will no longer be able to have the free Xbox Game Pass Ultimate benefit from January 2024.The report comes from The Verge, which claims to have spoken to sources "familiar with Microsoft’s plans." The report says it seems that Xbox employees will still be able to have the benefit while other permanent Microsoft employees will be able to get a discounted year-long Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription but will lose access to the free benefit at the start of next year.The report also claims that Microsoft employees are speaking out against the change on the "company’s internal messaging platform," and that Xbox boss Phil Spencer didn't know about the decision and "is looking into the situation." Xbox Game Pass itself is constantly updated, both with major launches like Starfield and with indie hits like Cocoon, which received near-perfect reviews. If you're curious about what's to come in the future, check out our long list of all the upcoming Game Pass games.Xbox Game PassIndustry News Written by Heidi NicholasHeidi tends to lean towards indie games, RPGs, and open-world games on Xbox, and when not playing Disney Dreamlight Valley, happily installs every new wholesome game that appears on Xbox Game Pass, before diving back into favorites like The Witcher 3. She's looking forward to Age of Mythology Retold, Everwild, Fable, and Avowed on the Xbox horizon. Heidi graduated with an MA in English Literature before joining the TrueAchievements team.