Microsoft Store Now Free for App Developers
▼ Summary
– Microsoft will eliminate developer onboarding fees for the Microsoft Store on Windows starting June 2025.
– Previously, developers had to pay around $19 to register and publish apps on the Microsoft Store.
– The change comes as Apple faces legal pressure over its App Store fees, though Apple still charges a $99 annual fee.
– Google Play charges a one-time $25 fee for Android developers, differing from Microsoft’s new free model.
– Microsoft will still charge 12%-15% fees for apps using its commerce platform, but developers using their own system keep all revenue for non-gaming apps.
Microsoft has eliminated developer registration fees for its Windows app store, making it completely free for individual creators to publish their software. The change, announced during Microsoft Build 2025, takes effect in June and removes the previous $19 account registration charge.
This move contrasts sharply with policies at competing platforms. Apple continues to enforce a $99 annual developer fee despite ongoing legal challenges to its App Store commission structure. Google maintains a smaller one-time $25 fee for Android’s Play Store access. Microsoft’s decision could attract more independent developers by lowering the barrier to entry.
While registration is now free, Microsoft still takes a 12% cut for games and 15% for apps when developers use its built-in payment system. Those who handle transactions independently keep all revenue from non-gaming apps—a flexibility that may appeal to businesses prioritizing profit margins. The shift reflects Microsoft’s broader strategy to grow its app ecosystem by reducing upfront costs while maintaining revenue-sharing options.
The policy update arrives as major tech platforms face increasing scrutiny over app store practices. By removing financial hurdles for developers, Microsoft positions itself as a more accessible alternative in the competitive digital marketplace. Whether this sparks a wider industry trend remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly gives Windows an edge in attracting fresh talent to its platform.
(Source: TechCrunch)
