Microsoft Store App Publishing Now Free - No Fees!

Microsoft Eliminates Developer Onboarding Fees for Windows Store

During its Build 2025 conference on Monday, Microsoft announced the removal of developer onboarding fees for the Microsoft Store on Windows, its primary operating system’s digital distribution platform.

Beginning in June 2025, individual developers will have the ability to register and publish applications to the Microsoft Store without incurring an account registration fee. Previously, a fee of approximately $19 was required for registration.

Context of the Fee Removal

This change in policy regarding Microsoft Store app publishing fees occurs as Microsoft’s competitor, Apple, is currently navigating significant legal challenges concerning its developer fees within the App Store.

It’s important to note that Apple’s charges are structured as commissions, alongside a $99 annual developer fee. In contrast, Google applies a one-time $25 fee for applications distributed through Google Play, the app store for Android devices.

Revenue Sharing Remains

Microsoft clarified that while the onboarding fee is being waived, a 12% fee will still be applied to developers utilizing the Microsoft Store’s commerce platform for games.

A 15% fee will continue to be charged for other applications that leverage Microsoft’s commerce system. Developers who implement their own independent commerce solutions will retain 100% of the revenue generated from non-gaming applications.