Microsoft isn’t going to let Apple have all the app-store fun. On Monday, the software giant announced more details about Windows Phone 7 Series applications in its online store as it moves to get third-party developers excited about the new platform.
The announcement, made at the MIX10 developers’ conference in Las Vegas, didn’t specify which apps will be offered for the successor to the current Windows Mobile operating system, or the price ranges. But the company said its Silverlight multimedia technology, a competitor to Adobe Systems’ Flash and AIR technologies, will be the basis for “rich Internet application” development. Flash, ubiquitous on the web, is supported on a wide variety of mobile devices — with the notable exception being Apple’s iPhone and iPad.
XNA Support
Microsoft also said Windows Phone 7 supports XNA programming tools for game development. A software development kit for Phone 7 application development was released last week.
While virtually all mobile platforms now have app stores, Microsoft is taking a few cues from Apple. For instance, the company said all Phone 7 apps in the Windows Marketplace for Mobile store must be approved first by Microsoft, as Apple requires for its App Store.
However, Microsoft has told news media it will make decisions about applications more expeditiously than Apple, which should please developers. It also said that trial versions of applications will be required, so customers can try before buying.
The Windows Phone 7 Series platform was unveiled in mid-February at the World Mobile Congress. Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer made the presentation, which the company touted as bringing together for the first time Xbox LIVE games and the Zune music and video experience on a mobile phone. Devices based on the platform are expected to be on the market by the Christmas holiday season.
Phone 7 as a Gaming Platform
Microsoft has…