This could mean that PCs under 14.1-inch low-cost models will be much cheaper than 2016, because they should face a lower Windows tax.

It will not happen until March 1 and Vole seems to set its charges so they vary with notebook screen size, poorer countries and high-end, mid-range and entry-level models.

The move is a way of countering Chromebooks which have put competitive pressure on Windows. Lenovo, Acer, Asustek Computer, Dell and Samsung Electronics have launched Chromebooks. Google does not charge a license for Chrome OS, and prices for
 Chromebooks are typically lower than those for Windows-based notebooks, especially in the education market.