RIM has announced that they are now accepting app submissions from developers for their new BlackBerry PlayBook tablet, and any developers that get their applications approved for the BlackBerry App World will receive a free PlayBook tablet.
The offer of a free tablet is obviously a move by RIM to entice developers to their platform. We have seen something similar with Microsoft with the launch of the Windows Phone 7 platform where they paid a selection of developers to develop apps for their platform. This strategy is not only a way to populate their app store quickly but also to ensure that users have a variety of applications to choose from right from the start.
Developer Incentives and Benefits
Offering a free PlayBook tablet to developers is a significant incentive. It not only encourages developers to create apps for the platform but also allows them to test their applications on the actual device, ensuring better performance and user experience. This move is crucial for RIM as they aim to compete with other established tablets in the market, such as the iPad and Android tablets.
Moreover, the PlayBook’s hardware capabilities and unique features, such as its gesture-based navigation, provide developers with new opportunities to innovate. The PlayBook’s gestures extend beyond the screen to the bezel, offering a larger interactive area and a more immersive experience. This can lead to the development of more intuitive and engaging applications.
“Developing for the PlayBook has been a pleasurable experience. The APIs are straightforward and optimized for the device and the environment is cross-platform,” said Jerome Carty, President, JCX Systems, Inc. “The thing that impresses me the most is the potential for the hardware. The gestures for the PlayBook make the device feel as though you have unlimited surface area since they extend beyond the screen to the bezel. This will make for a fun and unique experience for developers and end-users.”
Expanding the App Ecosystem
Obviously, RIM is hoping to have a wide range of applications available for the PlayBook tablet when it goes on sale. A robust app ecosystem is essential for the success of any new platform. Users are more likely to adopt a new device if they have access to a variety of high-quality applications that meet their needs and interests.
To further support developers, RIM has provided comprehensive development tools and resources. These include detailed documentation, sample code, and forums where developers can seek help and share their experiences. By fostering a supportive developer community, RIM aims to ensure that developers can create high-quality apps efficiently.
Additionally, RIM’s focus on cross-platform development means that developers can create applications that run on multiple devices, not just the PlayBook. This flexibility can attract developers who are looking to reach a broader audience without having to rewrite their code for different platforms.
In conclusion, RIM’s strategy to offer free PlayBook tablets to developers is a smart move to quickly build a diverse and rich app ecosystem. By providing the necessary tools and support, RIM is positioning the PlayBook as a competitive player in the tablet market. As developers take advantage of the PlayBook’s unique features and capabilities, users can look forward to a wide range of innovative and engaging applications.
via Gizmodo
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