Microsoft reportedly looks to bolster weak Windows 8 demand with OEM license discounts

Windows 8 sales have reportedly fallen short of Microsoft’s (MSFT) expectations, so the company is exploring new ways to spur demand. According to a report on Wednesday from Digitimes, the company’s latest effort involves giving its PC vendor partners a sizable $20 discount on Windows 8 licenses for notebook computers with screens sized 11.6 inches and below. For notebooks, tablets and hybrids with screens sized 10.8 inches or lower, Microsoft will also reportedly include free Office 2013 software. Windows 8 licenses reportedly cost between $80 and $90 excluding Office, so this healthy discount could help vendors offer devices that are much less expensive than comparable systems currently on the market.

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This article was originally published on BGR.com