RIM has launched their ‘App World’ application store for BlackBerry handsets, where BlackBerry users can download applications much like the Apple iPhone App store.
There will be free applications available, as well as paid applications, but the most notable point is the minimum price for paid applications, which will be $2.99 as opposed to $0.99 with the iPhone App store.
This price point is bound to hurt developers, although they will get a larger share of revenue than the iPhone App store with an 80/20 split in favor of developers.
Comparing App Stores: BlackBerry vs. iPhone
A lot of the applications downloaded at the iPhone App store have been in the $0.99 price range, the majority downloaded by casual users. This low price point has made it easy for users to make impulse purchases without much thought. When I see an application on the iPhone app store that I like for $0.99, I usually download it straight away. I am a little more cautious when it comes to the more expensive applications and usually do a bit of research into them before buying.
The BlackBerry App World, on the other hand, sets a higher minimum price for paid applications at $2.99. This could potentially limit the number of impulse buys and might make users more selective about their purchases. However, the higher price point could also mean that developers might focus on creating higher-quality applications to justify the cost. Additionally, the 80/20 revenue split in favor of developers is a significant incentive, potentially attracting more developers to the platform despite the higher minimum price.
Potential Impact on Developers and Users
The higher minimum price on BlackBerry App World could have several implications. For developers, the increased revenue share is a positive aspect. With an 80/20 split, developers receive a larger portion of the sales compared to the iPhone App store, which might encourage more innovation and better-quality apps. However, the higher price point might deter casual users from making purchases, which could impact overall sales volume.
For users, the higher price might mean fewer impulse buys, but it could also lead to a marketplace with more premium and well-developed applications. Users might find that they get more value for their money, as developers are incentivized to create more robust and feature-rich apps to justify the higher price.
It will be interesting to see how well the BlackBerry App World does, and if they lower the minimum application price in the future. The success of the platform will likely depend on how well it can balance the interests of both developers and users. If BlackBerry can attract high-quality applications and maintain user interest despite the higher price point, it could carve out a significant niche in the competitive app store market.
Moreover, the launch of BlackBerry App World signifies RIM’s commitment to expanding its ecosystem and providing more value to its users. By offering a dedicated app store, BlackBerry aims to enhance the functionality and appeal of its handsets, making them more competitive with other smartphones on the market.
In conclusion, while the higher minimum price on BlackBerry App World might pose some challenges, it also presents opportunities for developers to earn more and for users to access higher-quality applications. The success of this new platform will depend on how well it can attract and retain both developers and users in the long run.
BlackBerry World via Engadget, Obsessable, Gear Crave
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
