Before you can participate in and benefit from the PlaysForSure logo program, there are several steps that you must complete to qualify to use the logo on your devices and marketing collateral, as well as to access other resources that will help you to maximize the value you get from using the logo. Here is a brief overview of the process:
Microsoft Technologies and Licensing Fees
You will need to separately license and implement several technologies from Microsoft to be fully PlaysForSure-qualified. These technologies vary based on the type of devices you make, but are all designed to ensure the best possible customer experience when used with the Windows operating system and Windows Media Player. These technologies also give your device access to a growing number of online stores.
Some of these Microsoft technologies have an associated fee for licensing. More information about pricing options is available as you request the licenses outlined in Step 2.
The Tools and Resources page contains additional development resources for each of these Microsoft technologies. Resources include technical white papers, best practices, and links to information online.
PlaysForSure Testing
All devices that use the PlaysForSure logo must be verified through a non-Microsoft testing organization. Testing is required to verify the quality experience that the PlaysForSure logo signals to consumers and represents to retailers.
The testing process includes two different stages that you should be aware of:
Self-Testing: This site contains a link to a PlaysForSure self-test kit that you need to run on your device. This is to help you during the development stages and helps to ensure smooth submission and approval of your device.
Certified Independent Test Lab (ITL) Verification: Microsoft has arranged for National Software Testing Labs (NSTL) and Allion Test Labs to be the global, authorized Independent Test Labs for the PlaysForSure program. Each device will need to be verified by an ITL in order for Microsoft to issue you the right to use the logo on your device and marketing collateral for that device. NSTL and Allion will be using the same self-test kit that you are provided. You will receive more information about how to engage with NSTL or Allion after you sign the PlaysForSure Logo License Agreement.
The PlaysForSure testing process does not replace Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) testing, which is also required to obtain the PlaysForSure logo.
Logo Usage and Marketing
After your device has passed PlaysForSure testing and Microsoft has issued you the rights to use the logo on your device, there are brand guidelines you must follow. The Using the Logo page (Step 4) contains recommendations for using the logo as well as examples of marketing materials for your reference.
To provide your customers with the best possible experience, we have also included best practices for distributing and marketing your device.
