Microsoft 365 Developer Program Overview

Introduction

• Increased inquiries from students and developers about accessing free Microsoft 365 developer tenants.
• Importance of free developer tenants for learning and developing custom solutions.
• Changes in the Microsoft 365 developer program have created confusion.

Background on Microsoft 365 Developer Program

• Launched in November 2020; offered free Microsoft 365 tenant (Sandbox subscription) by March 2021.
• Tenants included sample data and multiple user licenses for development and testing.
• Tenants automatically renewed annually if used for development purposes.
• Key benefits:
  • Free of charge
  • Identical to commercial Microsoft 365 tenants
  • Expire after a year but can be renewed if used correctly.

Recent Changes (January 2024)

• Microsoft ceased creating new developer tenants abruptly, causing confusion among developers.
• Error message received when trying to create new tenants: "You don't qualify for a developer Microsoft 365 developer program sandbox subscription."

Reason for Changes

• Microsoft limited access to subscriptions for developers in organizations with active Visual Studio Enterprise subscriptions.
• This was to strengthen security measures and validate identities of users signing up for developer tenants.
• Prior to 2024, anyone could create an email and sign up, which led to misuse.
• Comparison to Azure where credit cards are required for identity verification.

Current Options for Obtaining Developer Tenants

1. Active Visual Studio Enterprise Subscription:
   • Tenants available for developers with this subscription.
2. Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Programs:
   • Participation in programs can allow access to developer subscriptions.
3. Purchasing a License:
   • Buy licenses like E3 or Business Premium to use as development tenants.

Implications for the Future

• Microsoft acknowledges the impact on developers and students.
• Solution is in development with an expected implementation around September 2024.
• Current options for free developer accounts are limited.
• Perspective on the cost of tools:
  • Microsoft 365 business basic license: $72/year ($6/month).
  • Microsoft 365 business premium license: $264/year ($22/month).

Conclusion

• Need to keep perspective on the affordability of tools despite access issues.
• Encouragement for feedback on the video and sharing experiences regarding tenant access.
• Call to action for likes and subscriptions to the channel for more content related to Microsoft 365 and Azure.