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Amid RAM price hikes, Microsoft reportedly raises Windows license cost, forcing OEMs to hike prices even further on hardware
Windows Central • • general
Key Points:
- Microsoft is increasing Windows license fees for OEMs by 7% to 10%, a significantly higher hike than the usual single-digit annual increases.
- These license fee hikes are contributing to rising laptop prices, which are already affected by ongoing memory component shortages and supply chain issues.
- The price increases apply only to OEMs shipping Windows pre-installed; consumer Windows 11 license prices remain unchanged at $99 for Home and $199 for Pro.
- The overall PC market is experiencing substantial price inflation, with mid-range laptops nearing $1,000 and flagship Windows devices reaching around $2,000, partly due to component shortages and increased licensing costs.
- Microsoft declined to comment on the reported licensing fee increases when contacted by Windows Central.
