What that you must know
- Microsoft not too long ago introduced coverage modifications for the Microsoft Retailer that may take impact on July 16, 2022.
- A kind of modifications will prohibit the sale of open-source apps or functions which are free outdoors of the shop.
- The brand new rule drew criticism from builders, since some firms use the Microsoft Retailer to promote their very own open-source apps.
- Microsoft’s common supervisor of companions and the Microsoft Retailer clarified that the brand new coverage targets copycat and different illegitimate app listings.
Microsoft got here beneath fireplace this week attributable to new coverage modifications for the Microsoft Retailer that may take impact on July 16, 2022. One of many new guidelines prohibits the sale of open-source apps or functions which are usually obtainable at no cost outdoors of the shop. The phrasing of the brand new coverage is broad sufficient that it covers reliable functions being offered by the makers of the apps. This led to criticism from a number of members of the developer group.
I’m disillusioned by the @MicrosoftStore coverage change that prohibits promoting open supply software program. The Retailer offers unbiased open supply builders a chance to create sustainable initiatives by charging an inexpensive quantity there. https://t.co/a3x9MSZJZSJuly 6, 2022
Whereas some individuals attempt to dishonestly earn cash by promoting others’ open-source apps, there are firms that record their open-source or usually free functions within the Microsoft Retailer to earn income. That is usually carried out instead of asking for donations.
“In the event you purchase Paint.NET within the Home windows Retailer, you may be supporting its growth instantly (usually we ask for a donation),” explains the Microsoft Retailer entry for Paint.NET (opens in new tab).
After the coverage was flagged up, Microsoft’s Normal Supervisor of Apps, Companions, and the Microsoft Retailer Giorgio Sardo clarified the intent of the brand new rule. Sardo acknowledged that the intent of the brand new coverage is to focus on copycat apps and scammers.
That is proper, that was the intent. Actually respect the suggestions @WithinRafael @unixterminal @anaisbetts ! We’re listening, and we’ll look into clarifying the wording as quickly as attainable. https://t.co/uIZswaS16UJuly 6, 2022
Sardo’s feedback have been in response to a tweet by ani betts that mentioned, “I think this was designed to catch scammers that lazily repackage FOSS software program for $$, in all probability wants an exception for the copyright house owners.”
The overall supervisor confirmed that Microsoft will look into clarifying the wording of the brand new coverage.
