Microsoft Eliminates Fees for Windows Developers Publishing on the Microsoft Store

Microsoft has announced that, effective immediately, individual Windows developers will no longer incur costs for publishing their applications on the Microsoft Store. Developers can now submit a variety of applications, including Win32 (such as .NET WPF and WinForms), UWP, PWA, .NET MAUI, and Electron apps, without any registration fees. The company will manage app hosting and signing, allowing developers to avoid these expenses. By packaging their apps as MSIX, developers can utilise Microsoft’s infrastructure for hosting and distribution, eliminating the need for a personal Content Delivery Network (CDN). Additionally, Microsoft will provide free app signing to enhance trust and security, while Windows will automatically deliver updates, ensuring users always have the latest version without additional effort.

Furthermore, developers of non-gaming applications can implement their own in-app payment systems, allowing them to retain all generated revenue. To begin the process, developers must sign in with a personal Microsoft account and follow a new guided onboarding interface. Before publishing, they are required to verify their identity by scanning a valid government-issued ID and taking a selfie. Chetna Das, a Senior Product Manager at Microsoft, stated that the removal of credit card requirements addresses a significant barrier for many creators globally. By eliminating one-time fees, Microsoft aims to foster a more inclusive and accessible platform, empowering developers to innovate and thrive within the Windows ecosystem. The redesigned Microsoft Store, launched alongside Windows 11 in June 2021, supports a wide range of application types and boasts over 250 million monthly active users. 

Categories: App Publishing, Developer Accessibility, Microsoft Store Features 

Tags: Windows, Developers, Microsoft Store, Registration Fees, App Hosting, MSIX, In-App Payments, Onboarding, Distribution, Windows 11