Microsoft Store to Offer Free App Publishing
Microsoft has announced a significant change for developers: starting June 2025, individual developers can publish apps to the Microsoft Store without paying the previously required $19 registration fee .PCWorld
🚀 Empowering Developers with Free App Publishing
This initiative aims to lower barriers for independent developers, encouraging a broader range of applications on the Microsoft Store for Windows 10 and 11 . By eliminating the upfront cost, Microsoft positions itself as the first major app store to offer free app publishing for individual developers.Windows Central
In comparison, Apple maintains a $99 annual fee for App Store developers, while Google charges a one-time $25 fee for Google Play .Windows Central
💰 Revenue Sharing and Commerce Options
While the registration fee is waived, Microsoft continues to apply its standard revenue-sharing model for developers utilizing its commerce platform:Microsoft Learn
- 12% fee for games
- 15% fee forSEO improvements to consider.
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However, developers who implement their own commerce systems for non-gaming apps retain 100% of their revenue .Microsoft Learn
What This Means for Developers
Microsoft is eliminating the $19 registration fee for individual developers publishing apps to the Microsoft Store, starting in June 2025. This change aims to lower barriers for independent developers and small studios, fostering innovation and expanding the app ecosystem on Windows platforms.
🚀 Empowering Independent Developers
By removing the initial financial hurdle, Microsoft encourages a surge in new and innovative apps on the Microsoft Store. This move positions Microsoft as the first major app store to offer free app publishing for individual developers.
💼 FastTrack Program for Companies
While individual developers benefit from waived fees, Microsoft offers the FastTrack program for companies. This initiative provides waived registration fees, streamlined app certification, and guidance throughout the submission process, assisting organizations in bringing their apps to the Microsoft Store efficiently. Windows Blog
📊 Revenue Sharing and Commerce Options
Microsoft maintains its standard revenue-sharing model for developers using its commerce platform:
- 12% fee for games
- 15% fee for apps
However, developers implementing their own commerce systems for non-gaming apps retain 100% of their revenue.
🔗 Get Started
To begin publishing your app or to learn more about the new policies, visit the Microsoft Store Developer Center.Microsoft Developer
For detailed information on the FastTrack program, check out the Microsoft Store FastTrack page.
This initiative reflects Microsoft’s commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity within the developer community, making it more accessible for individuals to share their applications with a global audience.
Why Microsoft Is Making This Change
Several factors likely contributed to this decision:
- Attracting more developers to the platform.
- Increasing the variety of apps available to Windows users.
- Remaining competitive with other app stores.
Expected Impact
We anticipate that this change will:
- Lead to a greater influx of new apps.
- Provide more opportunities for developers to showcase their work.
- Benefit users with a wider selection of software.
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