A Proven Ticketing Process, Returning for XDS26

After overwhelmingly positive feedback in 2025, we’re pleased to confirm that the Service Provider ticket lottery will return for XDS26, using the same fair, transparent, and low-stress process.

This approach was introduced to better balance demand, ensure global representation, and remove the pressure of first-come, first-served ticket sales — and it worked. For 2026, we’re keeping it.

Why This Process Exists

XDS is committed to maintaining a healthy balance between Service Providers (Sellers) and Developers/Publishers (Buyers), which is a core part of what makes the summit valuable and effective for everyone attending.

Due to high demand, Service Provider passes have historically sold out extremely quickly. The lottery system ensures that:

• Everyone has the same chance, regardless of time zone or internet speed
• The process is calm and predictable, rather than stressful
• Representation across regions and company sizes remains balanced

A Clear Note on Fairness & Company Representation

Each ticket is awarded through an individual, randomized draw.
To support broader participation across the industry, each company can be selected a maximum of three (3) times — meaning up to three individuals from the same company may be drawn.

Importantly, each draw is independent and random. Being selected once does not increase the chance of additional selections. No company automatically receives multiple tickets.

How the XDS26 Service Provider Ticket Lottery Works

Phase 1: Pre-Registration

From February 23 at 9:00 AM PST to February 27 at 6:00 PM PST, individuals may submit their application to the XDS26 Service Provider ticket pool.

There is no advantage to applying early within this window — submit at any point during the pre-registration period.

Each applicant will receive a confirmation email once their submission has been successfully received.

Please note: The lottery is conducted per individual, not per company. Every person wishing to attend must submit their own application.

Phase 2: The Ticket Draw

After pre-registration closes, applicants are randomly drawn from the pool.

To encourage global representation and avoid over-concentration from a single company:

• A maximum of three (3) individuals per company may be selected
• All selections are made using the same randomized process

All successful applicants will be notified by March 4.

Any remaining applicants will automatically be placed on the waitlist.

Phase 3: Payment & Confirmation

Selected applicants will receive a payment link to complete their registration.

• The payment link is valid for 48 hours
• If payment is not completed within that window, the pass is released back into the pool
• Once payment is completed, a registration confirmation email is sent

What Is the Waitlist?

The waitlist includes all applicants who were not initially selected in the draw.

If:

• A selected applicant declines their pass, or
• Additional Service Provider tickets become available

Applicants on the waitlist may be invited to register in the order determined by the system.