Microsoft Eliminates Developer Onboarding Fees for Microsoft Store on Windows

Microsoft announced at its Build 2025 conference that it will eliminate developer onboarding fees for the Microsoft Store on Windows starting June 2025. This means individual developers can register and publish apps without paying the previous $19 registration fee.

This change positions Microsoft competitively against other major app stores. For comparison, Google Play charges a one-time $25 fee, while Apple continues to charge an annual $99 fee despite legal pressures to reduce developer costs.

Microsoft will maintain its commission fees for apps that use its commerce platform: 12% for games and 15% for other apps. However, developers who use their own commerce systems will keep 100% of revenue on non-gaming apps, offering greater flexibility and potential profitability.

Implications for Developers and the Industry

By removing the onboarding fee, Microsoft lowers the barrier to entry for individual developers, encouraging more innovation and app diversity on the Microsoft Store. This move could attract indie developers and startups who previously hesitated due to upfront costs.

The fee structure also reflects a trend toward more developer-friendly policies in the app ecosystem, balancing platform revenue needs with developer profitability. Microsoft's flexible commerce options empower developers to choose monetization strategies that best fit their products.

Broader Industry Context and Future Outlook

Microsoft’s decision comes amid growing scrutiny of app store fees globally, with regulators and developers pushing for fairer terms. By reducing upfront costs, Microsoft may set a precedent that influences other platforms to rethink their fee models.

For developers, this change means easier access to a large user base on Windows, potentially increasing app availability and diversity. For businesses and tech leaders, it signals a shift toward more inclusive and developer-centric ecosystems, fostering innovation and competition.