Microsoft finally drops Microsoft Store publishing fee for individual developers globally

Microsoft has now removed its app publishing fee for individual developers on the Microsoft Store, allowing solo developers to register and publish apps at no cost in nearly 200 countries. Previously, individuals paid a one-time $19 fee, but this requirement began to be gradually lifted in select markets since its announcement in May and is now removed globally.

Individual developers also no longer need a credit card to create an account, with registration now requiring only a personal Microsoft account, identity verification with an ID and selfie, and submission of basic details. Developers can also use their own in-app commerce system for non-gaming apps and keep 100 percent of their revenue. It is worth noting that these changes only apply to individuals, while company accounts remain unchanged and still require a $99 one-time registration fee.

The Store supports a wide range of app types including Win32, UWP, PWA, .NET, MAUI, and Electron. Microsoft notes that the platform reaches over 250 million monthly active users, with apps appearing in Windows Search and deployable via Microsoft Intune, aiming to expand accessibility and encourage participation from indie devs. Notably, competitors like the Apple App Store still charges a $99 annual registration fee, while Google Play Store requires a one-time $25 payment.