Microsoft Build 2025 has easily stood out as one of the year’s most important tech events. The company used the occasion to unveil a series of major updates, enhancements, and forward-looking changes across its platforms.
Among the key announcements were new AI features coming to Microsoft Edge, aimed at both developers and everyday users. But that wasn’t all—Microsoft also revealed plans to simplify the process for developers to publish their apps on the Microsoft Store. This shift stems from a significant update, first highlighted by the team at Windows Central, that promises to reshape the developer experience moving forward.
Microsoft will allow developers to publish their apps in the store for free
Until now, Microsoft—like most companies that operate app stores—charged developers a one-time fee to submit their apps to the official Microsoft Store. For individual developers, this meant paying $19 just to register and publish an application.
But that’s about to change.
Microsoft has officially announced that, starting June 2025, it will eliminate all registration and submission fees for individual developers who want to publish their apps in the Microsoft Store on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
This marks a major shift in how Microsoft supports its developer community. For the first time ever, developers will be able to submit their apps completely free of charge. The move is intended to encourage innovation and make it easier for newcomers and indie developers to bring their ideas to life without facing upfront costs.
According to Microsoft, this makes the Microsoft Store the only major digital platform in the world that allows app submissions at no cost. For comparison:
- Google Play charges a one-time fee of $25.
- Apple’s App Store requires an annual subscription of $99.
This bold step opens the door for hobbyists, students, and aspiring software creators to showcase their work to a global audience—without spending a dime.
A Double-Edged Sword?
Of course, removing the paywall could have some downsides. With no financial barrier to entry, the store might see an influx of low-quality or spammy apps. Microsoft will need to stay vigilant and maintain strong moderation standards to avoid a flood of poor-quality software that could dilute the platform’s reputation.
It’s also worth noting that this change only applies to individual developers. Companies and organizations will still need to pay the standard $99 fee to register and publish apps on the Microsoft Store.
