Microsoft Slams Brakes on PC Costs with Up to 10% Windows License Hike

Microsoft has increased the price of Windows OEM licenses by up to 10%, starting in July, according to Taiwan's Economic Daily News. PC brand executives cited in the report say Microsoft typically adjusts licensing fees for hardware makers every year, but the increases have historically stayed in the low single digits.

The average hike is around 7% to 10%, described as the largest recent increase. OEM licenses are the fees manufacturers pay to preinstall Windows on new laptops and desktops, which get folded into the price of the finished machine.

PC builders and OEMs are already struggling with rising costs due to memory shortages, GPU price hikes, motherboard and CPU cost increases. The added expense of higher Windows licensing fees will put further pressure on finished system prices.