If you thought your subscription to Microsoft 365 was a set-it-and-forget-it investment, think again!

Recent updates reveal a staggering 43% price hike—that’s an extra $3 per month for Personal and Family plans.

To add salt to the wound, Microsoft is yanking the included VPN feature, citing low usage as the main reason.

Sure, the VPN wasn’t exactly a powerhouse—offering only 50GB of data and no location masking—but it provided a safety net for many users who appreciated even the illusion of privacy.

With this change, Microsoft is introducing new AI capabilities through the Copilot feature, which were previously optional add-ons.

While some users might appreciate the advanced functionalities, many are grumbling over the loss of a beloved feature.

So, what does this mean for you as a user?

Let’s break down the impact, look at how users are reacting, and explore ways to adapt to this new pricing model.

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Key Takeaways

• Microsoft 365 users will face a 43% price increase alongside the removal of the VPN feature.
• The decision to drop the VPN comes after Microsoft deemed it unnecessary based on usage evaluations.
• New AI features are being introduced as part of the price hike, prompting mixed reactions from existing users.

Impact of the Microsoft 365 Price Increase

The recent price increase for Microsoft 365 has left many users feeling a bit bewildered, especially with the removal of the VPN feature starting February
28.

While Microsoft suggests the VPN’s limited use—its 50GB monthly cap and inability to mask geographical locations—means it was no longer essential, this move feels like a step back for many users.

Pricing for monthly subscriptions will rise by about 43%, which translates to an additional $3 for both Personal and Family plans, the first hike in 12 years!

The justification?

The introduction of basic Copilot AI features otherwise available via a separate $20 subscription.

For those not thrilled with this new structure, Microsoft offers a downgrade option to ‘Microsoft 365 Personal Classic’ or ‘Microsoft 365 Family Classic’, which keeps previous features but does not include the VPN or the new AI enhancements.

While existing subscribers might feel the sting of this change, new customers will have to face the adjusted pricing head-on, which still includes services like identity theft protection and credit monitoring.

User Reactions to VPN Removal and New Features

User reactions to the removal of the VPN feature from Microsoft 365 have been mixed.

On one hand, some users understand Microsoft’s decision, agreeing that the limited use of the VPN didn’t justify its inclusion.

Others, however, are expressing frustration, especially considering the overall 43% price increase.

Imagine paying more and getting less!

With the removal of the VPN, which, let’s be honest, was more of a freebie than a robust security solution, many are questioning whether Microsoft has their users’ best interests at heart.

The common sentiment is that while AI tools are becoming essential, losing a feature—even a limited one like the VPN—feels like a downgrade in value.

Microsoft’s move has some now scrambling to figure out if downgrading to the ‘Classic’ plans is a viable option, though it’s unclear how long those will last.

As subscriptions shift, users want clarity and support while adjusting to these new changes.

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