Microsoft has announced new details about how developers can build and sell applications for Windows phones through its Windows Marketplace for Mobile, the recently announced application marketplace available with the Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system. Microsoft will provide developers with 70 percent of the sales revenue of their applications from Windows Marketplace for Mobile, transparency throughout the certification process, and guidance and support from the stage of development to the final sale to the consumer. Registration will begin this spring and developers will be able to start submitting their applications later this summer.
Developers who sell applications through Windows Marketplace for Mobile will receive 70 percent of the revenue from the sales of each application. In addition, they will be able to set the price for their applications in each market, maximizing their revenues based on targeted pricing strategies. Developers can also choose to distribute their applications at no cost. Up to five application submissions to Windows Marketplace for Mobile is included in the introductory annual registration fee of $99 (U.S.). Each additional submission within the annual period will cost $99 (U.S.). The registration fee is waived for student developers who want to reach Windows phones customers, through enrollment in the Microsoft DreamSpark program.
Windows Marketplace for Mobile is available in 29 countries. Developers will be able to see detailed feedback during and after the certification process of their application on the developer portal, and can utilize familiar tools and technologies to build for the Windows Mobile platform, including the Windows Mobile 6 SDK and .NET Compact Framework 3.5.
