If you are a Windows app developer who wants to publish something in the Microsoft Store, you are probably aware of Microsoft Store Policies, a document that governs what kind of apps are allowed in the marketplace, how payments are handled, and more. Every now and then, Microsoft updates the document with new information, and the latest update, version 7.19, brings some changes to existing policies and introduces new ones.
With the latest version, Microsoft made several changes to a bunch of articles to reflect branding changes (Xbox Live is now Xbox Network), clarify things about in-game advertising, and more. Additionally, there are two new articles related to child safety and AI-generated content.
Now, Windows developers are required to provide protections and safeguards against exploitation, bullying, and security measures against inappropriate content if their products target children. The second policy mandates clarification on AI-generated content deployment and what kind of content the system outputs. In other words, Microsoft wants developers to clarify that integrated AI models do not produce harmful content or other stuff that is not allowed in the Microsoft Store.
Here is an overview of the updates:
- Updated all references of "Xbox Live" to "Xbox network" to align with updated branding.
- Updated 10.1.3 to clarify that developers cannot use pricing terms in their search terms.
- Updated 10.2.4 to remove the “link here” copy.
- Updated 10.4.4 to state apps must not have unreasonably low installation rates to ensure a better customer install experience.
- Updated 10.8.1 to disallow any real-world value exchange for in-product digital goods or currencies on external marketplaces.
- Updated 10.8.2.7 to note that in cases where developers are allowed to use a third-party purchase API under policy, and have chosen to do so, they must indicate this usage via the check box in Partner Center.
- Updated 10.13.5 to clarify that in-game advertising on Xbox must adhere to the same guidelines as those for the Xbox Console Dashboard.
- New 10.13.12 Policy clarification that XR-007 Cross-Network Gameplay applies for any store content that roams across networks and platforms.
- New 11.15 New child safety policy requires that products that target children provide robust protections, including safeguards against exploitation, bullying, and access to inappropriate or adult-themed content.
- New 11.16 New policy aims to ensure transparency in how live generative AI technologies are deployed in-app and the nature of their output.
The updated Microsoft Store Policies arrived alongside free developer accounts for individual developers. Microsoft no longer charges the $19 entry fee for small developers, and only companies are still required to pay $99. Interestingly, the official FAQ section has not been updated yet, and it still says that individual developers must pay Microsoft $19 to publish an app in the Microsoft Store.