Microsoft Sets Developer Strategy for Windows Mobile Apps

Microsoft has announced its strategy for empowering developers to create and monetize applications for the next generation of Windows phones.

In a March 11 announcement, Microsoft laid out new details about how developers can build and sell applications for Windows phones through Windows Marketplace for Mobile, the company's recently announced application marketplace available with the Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system.

As incentive for developers to build compelling applications for the Windows Mobile platform, Microsoft said it will provide developers with 70 percent of the sales revenue of their applications from Windows Marketplace for Mobile, transparency throughout the certification process, and guidance and support from the stage of development to the final sale to the consumer.

In addition, Microsoft said developers will be able to set the price for their applications in each market. Or developers can choose to distribute their applications at no cost. Up to five application submissions to Windows Marketplace for Mobile are included in the introductory annual registration fee of $99, and each additional submission within the annual period will cost $99. However, the registration fee is waived for student developers who want to reach Windows phones customers, through enrollment in the Microsoft DreamSpark program.

Microsoft said it will run a certification and testing process so that developers can make sure their applications run efficiently on Windows. Developers will be able to register for the process in the spring and will be able to start submitting their applications later this summer, the company said.

Developers can get the tools to begin developing for Windows phones at http://developer.windowsmobile.com.

“Microsoft’s decades-long relationship with developers has led to some of the most exciting innovations the industry has seen. We’ll continue our successful collaboration with developers through Windows Marketplace for Mobile, which will provide a broad reach to customers,” said Andy Lees, senior vice president of the Mobile Communications Business at Microsoft, in a statement. “With the new Windows Marketplace for Mobile and our great development tools, Windows phones represent an incredible opportunity for developers everywhere.”

Developers who sell applications through Windows Marketplace for Mobile will receive 70 percent of the revenue from the sales of each application.

Windows Marketplace for Mobile is available in 29 countries so far.