After the success of iPhone App Store, every mobile company is opening their own virtual retail store. Last month, Microsoft had released its own software shop. But now, windows phone users will be able to access the store from a PC with its web-based version.
This allows user to buy softwares at the Windows Marketplace for mobile site and get them automatically installed in their devices, when Windows Marketplace client runs next time. The new version has many enhancements to developers portal. Mobile application developers have become a key part of the mobile industry’s eco-system. Microsoft has taken good steps in implementing the feedback from Developers. Windows marketplace is currently available only for Windows Mobile 6.5.
The policy for developing applications for Windows phone are as follows:
Developers who sell applications through the Windows Marketplace for Mobile receive 70% of the revenue, with the other 30% going to Microsoft. Third-party developers are able to set the price for their applications in each market, and can also choose to distribute their products for free.
Software developers will have to pay an introductory annual registration fee of $99, which allows them to submit five applications a year to Microsoft for certification. Each additional submission within the year costs $99 more. The registration fee is waived for students through enrollment in the Microsoft DreamSpark program.
source : Brighthand
Right now, mobile market is dominated by iPhone OS and Android. On the other hand, Windows Phone doesn’t seem to be making much effect on consumers. Further, Samsung has also released its own OS and this has added another element in the mobile market. But, Microsoft already has its development team working on Windows 7 for mobile, which will be hitting market next year. It will be interesting to see how the competition turns out.