Microsoft [MSFT] has released details on its Windows Phone 7 applications, specifically information for developers and how their developer program will work.
It looks like Microsoft is going down the same route as Apple, all applications for Windows Phone 7 must be approved by Microsoft and they will only be sold through Windows Marketplace for Mobile.
Developers will be able to use Silverlight and XNA to write the applications for Windows Phone 7, and Microsoft has now released the SDK for developers which is available as a free download.
Developer Program Details
Applications for the Windows Marketplace for Mobile must conform to Microsoft’s standards, similar to the way Apple approves each and every application before it is available to download. This ensures a level of quality and security for users, but it also means that developers need to adhere to strict guidelines. The approval process can sometimes be lengthy, but it helps maintain a consistent user experience across all applications.
Developers will have to pay $99 a year for membership to the developer program. For that fee, they will be able to develop and submit five applications. There are no details on how much developers will be charged for additional applications, but it is expected that there will be a fee structure in place for those who wish to submit more than five apps. This model is quite similar to Apple’s, where developers also pay an annual fee and have their apps reviewed before they can be published.
Tools and Technologies
Microsoft is providing developers with robust tools to create their applications. Silverlight, a powerful development tool for creating engaging, interactive user experiences for web and mobile applications, and XNA, a set of tools with a managed runtime environment provided by Microsoft that facilitates video game development and management, are both available for developers. The SDK (Software Development Kit) for Windows Phone 7 is available as a free download, making it accessible for developers to start building applications right away.
The use of Silverlight and XNA means that developers can create rich, visually appealing applications and games. Silverlight is particularly well-suited for applications that require a lot of user interaction, while XNA is ideal for game development. This combination of tools allows developers to create a wide range of applications, from productivity tools to immersive games.
It is interesting that Microsoft has adopted the same model as Apple for their Windows Phone 7 applications, rather than go for an open platform where each application doesn’t need to be approved. This closed ecosystem approach has its advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, it ensures a certain level of quality and security for users. On the other hand, it can be restrictive for developers who may find the approval process cumbersome.
Microsoft’s decision to follow Apple’s model could be seen as a way to ensure that their app marketplace remains competitive and maintains a high standard of quality. By controlling the approval process, Microsoft can prevent low-quality or malicious apps from being distributed, which helps protect users and maintain the integrity of the platform.
Overall, the developer program for Windows Phone 7 offers a structured and supportive environment for developers. With access to powerful tools like Silverlight and XNA, and a clear set of guidelines for app approval, developers have the resources they need to create high-quality applications. While the annual fee and approval process may be seen as barriers by some, they ultimately help ensure a better experience for users.
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Check out our Samsung Omnia 7 Review to see what we thought of this Windows Phone 7 Smartphone.
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