Microsoft is using its developers conference to announce a new compensation plan that the company hopes will attract more developers to its platform. Joe Belfiore at the Microsoft Developer Conference (Image via Microsoft Build 2018)
Earlier in the month of May 2018, Microsoft held its developers conference during which the Vice President of Operating Systems, Joe Belfiore, announced that the corporation has designed a new compensation plan for developers interested in selling applications designed for Windows 10. starting in the later months of this year, developers will be able to keep between 85-95% of the proceeds from the sale of their apps and in-app features on Windows 10 platform. But, there are a few conditions.
The first condition is that the customer buys the app using a direct link. In which case, the developer gets 95 percent of the proceeds related to the app. In case it is a collection of apps on Microsoft store or any third party in Microsoft corporation that directs the consumers to the developer’s app, the latter can only keep 85 percent of the proceeds which is still a better deal than the old compensation plan. This new plan aims at offering developers better opportunities to earn, and in exchange, Microsoft renewed its commitment to creating the best platform possible to facilitate the consumer’s exposure to new efficient products. Developers interested in more information on the new plan can read more in the coming updated version of the App Developer Agreement. For any other party, the corporation suggests referring to the Frequently Asked Questions or to sign up on its website for any update.
Another condition of the new earning plan is that it applies only for apps on Windows 10 computers, mixed-reality, phones and hub devices; even subscriptions. Gaming applications and XBOX games will continue to be compensated through the usual (previous) plan. Also, the plan will apply to purchases that will occur after a certain date that will be communicated to developers in the new agreement. Microsoft clarifies that developers who offer their app through organizational licensing in the business or education section of Microsoft store will continue to be compensated through the current system. And before developers of apps for earlier versions of Windows feel left out, Microsoft reassure that the new fees will apply even for Windows 8.x (phone or computer).
There is no doubt that offering more money will attract more developers, which means more apps for the consumers and more competition among developers. However, since the education applications will not benefit from the new plan, would that mean that fewer developers will be interested in creating apps for education purpose? Also, how does an increase in consumer apps and the new compensation plan affect the users financially?
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