Microsoft Eliminates Developer Onboarding Fees for the Microsoft Store
In an announcement made during the Build 2025 conference, Microsoft revealed it will no longer require developers to pay onboarding fees for the Microsoft Store on Windows. Starting June 2025, individual developers will have the opportunity to create accounts and publish apps without the previously required registration fee of approximately $19.
This strategic move comes as part of a broader response to ongoing legal pressures faced by Microsoft’s competitor, Apple, which is being urged to abolish its developer fees on the App Store. Unlike Microsoft, Apple maintains an annual charge of $99 for developers, while Google imposes a one-time $25 fee for its own app distribution platform, Google Play.
Despite waiving the initial registration fees for developers, Microsoft will continue to implement a revenue-sharing model. Specifically, developers who utilise Microsoft’s commerce platform will incur a commission of 12% for games and 15% for other applications. However, those opting to manage their own commerce systems will retain 100% of their revenue from non-gaming apps.
This initiative aims to encourage more developers to contribute to the Microsoft Store and diversify its app offerings, making it a more attractive platform for both developers and consumers alike.
Fanpage: TechArena.au
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