We heard a couple of weeks ago that Microsoft’s Windows Phone Marketplace had hit 70,000 apps, and now it looks like Microsoft’s mobile app store has hit another milestone and now has 80,000 applications available to download.
Microsoft’s Windows Phone marketplace is still quite away behind Google’s Android Market and Apple’s iOS app store, but it looks like it is starting to gain some momentum.
If the Windows Phone Marketplace continues to grow at this rate they should reach 100,000 apps by the end of April or the start of May, and it is now already ahead of RIM’s BlackBerry app store which has around 70,000 apps.
Comparing App Store Growth
The growth of the Windows Phone Marketplace is a significant achievement for Microsoft, especially considering the competitive landscape of mobile app stores. While it still lags behind the giants like Google’s Play Store and Apple’s App Store, the rapid increase in the number of available apps is a positive indicator of the platform’s potential. For instance, Google’s Play Store boasts over 2.8 million apps, and Apple’s App Store has over 2.2 million apps. These numbers dwarf the 80,000 apps in the Windows Phone Marketplace, but the growth trajectory suggests that Microsoft is making strategic moves to attract more developers and users to its platform.
One of the key factors contributing to this growth is Microsoft’s efforts to make app development more accessible and appealing. By offering robust development tools and resources, Microsoft has been able to attract a diverse range of developers. Additionally, the company has been actively working on improving the user experience and performance of Windows Phone devices, which in turn encourages more users to explore and download apps from the marketplace.
Developer Incentives and User Experience
Microsoft has also introduced various incentives for developers to create apps for the Windows Phone platform. These incentives include financial rewards, marketing support, and technical assistance. For example, Microsoft has launched several developer contests and hackathons, offering substantial prizes to encourage innovation and creativity. Furthermore, the company provides comprehensive documentation and support through its developer portal, making it easier for developers to build and publish their apps.
On the user side, Microsoft has been focusing on enhancing the overall experience of using Windows Phone devices. The introduction of features like Live Tiles, which provide real-time updates on the home screen, and seamless integration with other Microsoft services such as Office 365 and OneDrive, make Windows Phones an attractive option for both personal and professional use. These features not only improve user satisfaction but also drive more downloads from the marketplace.
Moreover, Microsoft has been actively seeking partnerships with popular app developers to bring well-known apps to the Windows Phone platform. By ensuring that popular apps like Instagram, WhatsApp, and Spotify are available, Microsoft can attract more users who might otherwise be hesitant to switch from Android or iOS due to the lack of their favorite apps.
In conclusion, while the Windows Phone Marketplace still has a long way to go to catch up with its competitors, the current growth rate is promising. If Microsoft continues to invest in developer support and user experience, it is likely that the marketplace will continue to expand, potentially reaching the 100,000 app milestone in the near future. This growth not only benefits Microsoft but also provides users with a wider range of apps to choose from, enhancing the overall appeal of the Windows Phone platform.
Source Into Mobile
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