Yes, the annual fee for dotBrand TLDs is expected to remain around $25,800 per year for applicants in the 2026 round of New gTLDs.
While the main application fee for a new gTLD (including dotBrands) is projected to be $227,000, this is a one-time fee for the application and evaluation process. The annual management fee of approximately $25,800 is a separate, recurring cost for operating the TLD once it's delegated.