August 18, 2026, 5:49 am | Read time: 2 minutes
New PCs could soon cost even more. Microsoft has apparently significantly raised the fees for Windows licenses that manufacturers preinstall on their devices. For the PC industry, already suffering from high hardware costs, this increase comes at a bad time.
Microsoft Raises Windows Fees
Starting in July 2026, PC manufacturers are expected to pay a hefty seven to ten percent more for so-called OEM licenses of Windows. This is reported by several industry media, citing information from the PC industry. Typically, such adjustments are much more moderate. Manufacturers are likely to pass on at least some of the additional costs to their customers.
The cost of a Windows license for a manufacturer depends, among other things, on the hardware installed. Fees are tiered according to processor classes–more powerful chips mean higher license costs. However, Microsoft and PC manufacturers do not disclose the specific prices. Previous estimates suggested up to around 50 U.S. dollars per license.
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The problem: The Windows increase hits an already strained PC market. Memory, in particular, has become significantly more expensive. Other components are also becoming more costly, forcing manufacturers to raise their device prices. The additional Windows costs are unlikely to be visible as a separate item for buyers but will instead be absorbed into higher overall prices.
This situation is becoming increasingly difficult for manufacturers. Higher production costs meet declining demand. According to industry data, global PC sales already declined in the second quarter of 2026. At the same time, the pressure on manufacturers to protect their margins is growing.
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Further Price Increases Loom
It could get even worse for consumers in the coming months. According to industry sources from Taiwan, manufacturers like Asus and Acer are planning further price adjustments. In the third quarter of 2026, PCs could become a few percent more expensive again.
Microsoft has not yet provided a detailed explanation for the increase in OEM fees. What is certain, however, is that Windows is becoming more expensive for PC manufacturers–and this could ultimately drive up prices in the electronics market. Those considering a new computer should therefore carefully compare prices and keep an eye on offers.