Instacart has ceased its 'item price tests' involving AI technology following public criticism and federal investigations into its pricing practices, amid concerns over price variability and past deceptive tactics, while retailers retain control over their own prices.
FIFA faces criticism for its high and variable ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup, with political figures and fan groups urging the organization to lower costs and address pricing disparities, amid concerns that fans are being priced out of attending the tournament.
Borderlands 4, despite selling over 2.5 million copies in ten days, is already discounted by 20% on Steam, indicating it may not have met internal sales expectations, especially given prior pricing controversies and technical issues at launch.
AWS's new pricing for its AI-driven coding tool Kiro has sparked frustration among users due to significantly higher costs and opaque request limits, with many considering it a 'wallet-wrecking tragedy' compared to competitors, raising concerns about unexpected expenses in AI developer tools.
Call of Duty's latest $80 King Kong B.E.A.S.T. Glove has sparked outrage among players, with many criticizing it as not worth the high price due to its lack of special features. The glove is part of the Godzilla x Kong: New Empire bundles and has been described as disappointing by players who have purchased it. The controversial pricing decision adds to the ongoing criticism of Call of Duty's in-game purchases, while Activision recently announced the banning of 27,000 cheaters using its anti-cheat system.
Fisker's announcement of a $24,999 starting price for the 2023 Ocean has raised doubts about the vehicle's existence, with reports suggesting that the ultra-cheap luxury SUV may not be available. Despite communication roadblocks and potential bankruptcy concerns, potential buyers are advised to approach the discounted 2023 Ocean with caution, as the base MSRP may not reflect the actual price due to additional options. Classic Fisker, the only listed dealership, has indicated that the $25,000 Sports and $35,000 Ultras are not currently available in the US, with inventory constraints and potential pricing discrepancies.
GameMaker, in response to the pricing controversy surrounding Unity, has made its engine free for non-commercial use and introduced a one-time fee of $99.99 for its PC-based commercial license. Console game developers will still need to purchase the "enterprise" license. The move aims to provide a more developer-friendly approach and increase accessibility to game development. GameMaker has also seen a three-fold increase in active users since being acquired by Opera Software in 2021. Additionally, all asset bundles have been made free, further enhancing accessibility.
John Riccitiello has stepped down as CEO of Unity Technologies following a pricing controversy that caused backlash from developers. James M. Whitehurst has been appointed as interim CEO and president, while Roelof Botha has been appointed chairman. Unity reaffirmed its previous guidance for its fiscal third quarter financial results and will initiate a search for a permanent CEO. Riccitiello will continue to advise Unity during the transition.