Welcome back to our series "Thinking About Selling..." where we cover what you need to know before selling certain products or within certain categories here at Amazon. Today we will be covering selling software (physical or digital).

There are strict policies in place regarding the sale of digital goods and software on Amazon. Amazon generally does not allow the sale of standalone digital goods or downloadable software, with very limited exceptions for physical retail software packages. This policy significantly impacts sellers looking to distribute digital images or other digital-only products.

Strictly prohibited:

• Digital images
• Downloadable software
• Activation codes
• License keys
• Registration links
• Serial numbers
• Any digital delivery credentials

Prohibited software types:

• Duplicated/copied software
• OEM software (unless sold with hardware)
• Freeware/shareware
• Beta versions
• Backup copies
• Expired subscription software

Verification requirements:

• Pre-purchase verification software: Prohibited
• Post-purchase verification software: Allowed only if: License is transferable // Buyer is eligible for technical support/upgrades

Acceptable products include:

• Full retail versions of physical software only
• OEM software only when sold with associated hardware
• Must be listed against hardware ASIN when applicable

Key Implications for Sellers: Digital-only goods cannot be sold through Amazon. No digital delivery methods are allowed, including:

• Email delivery
• Amazon messaging system
• Third-party sites
• Electronic channels
• Printed credentials

Amazon's policy to prevent digital piracy helps to ensure customer protection. If you are interested in digital goods distribution, you will need to explore alternative platforms or convert your offerings to physical products that comply with Amazon's guidelines. I am linking this help page --> HERE <-- for more guidance.

Do you sell software on Amazon? Feel free to share your experience in the comments below!