Microsoft has allowed developers of Windows applications to take 100% of their revenue when using third-party payment systems. However, the company later clarified that it was only about software, and the authors of the games would still have to pay a commission.Microsoft confirmed this information to The Verge.
The company did not disclose the reasons for such a decision and only clarified that we are really talking about all applications except games.
The new rules will come into force on July 28. Now developers selling software in the Windows Store will be able to use their own or third-party payment systems and not pay a commission for it. Thus, all revenue from in-app purchases will go directly to the app creators.
Microsoft has already explained the fundamental difference between games and software during the trial between Apple and Epic Games. According to the company, it sells Xbox consoles at a loss, and therefore earns a 30% commission from the sale of games in the store.
However, the situation is different with the PC. From August 1, the company will reduce the commission in the Microsoft Store from 30% to 15% for software and up to 12% for games — the same as charged by Epic Games Store. At the same time, the commission on Xbox will remain at the same level.