Microsoft has announced a significant change for app developers: starting June 2025, individual developers can publish their apps on the Microsoft Store without paying any registration fees. This move, unveiled at the Build 2025 developer conference, positions Microsoft as the first major platform to offer free app submissions globally.
Key Highlights of the New Policy
- No Registration Fees for Individuals: Previously, individual developers had to pay a one-time fee of $19 to register. With the new policy, this fee is waived, allowing developers to sign up and publish apps without any upfront costs.
- Company Accounts Still Require Fees: While individuals benefit from the waived fees, company accounts will continue to incur a $99 registration fee.
- Revenue Sharing Remains Unchanged: Developers using Microsoft’s commerce platform will still be subject to a 12% fee for games and a 15% fee for apps. However, those who opt for their own commerce systems can retain 100% of the revenue from non-gaming apps.
Implications for Developers
This policy change is expected to lower barriers for aspiring developers, especially those from underrepresented regions or with limited financial resources. By removing the initial cost, Microsoft aims to foster a more inclusive and diverse developer community.
The move also aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to enhance the Microsoft Store’s appeal, encouraging a richer variety of apps and potentially increasing user engagement on Windows platforms.
Comparative Landscape
In contrast to Microsoft’s new approach:
- Apple: Charges an annual fee of $99 for developers to publish apps on the App Store.
- Google: Requires a one-time fee of $25 for access to the Google Play Store.NewsBytes
By eliminating fees for individual developers, Microsoft sets itself apart, potentially attracting a surge of new apps to its platform.
