Mike KirkupThe latest BlackBerry Developer newsletter went out last night and this one contains a BUNCH of details about RIM's new application storefront that will be launching in the coming months. You'll want to listen to the .mp3 file in the Open Mike with Mike Kirkup section where Mike gives up some advice and never before heard details on RIM's app store endeavor.

Listen to Open Mike with Mike Kirkup >>


No time to listen? Here's some of the key points:

  • The store front is OPEN to developers. You can start submitting apps now.
  • App storefront will deploy applications via its own mechanism - there will be an on device client that will allow end users to browse, buy and download apps directly. Developers just need to focus on building awesome apps!
  • Users will be able to write reviews (I'm guessing rating and other expected functions like that will be in there as well)
  • The App Store will initially be roled out in English only to North America and UK markets. More language/geographic support coming down the road.
  • App Store will support OS version 4.2.1 software and higher on trackball and touchscreen devices (sorry trackwheel users - time to upgrade!)
  • Getting your apps into the app storefront:
    • 1. Signup as a Vendor
    • 2. Suitability test - RIM does an initial check to make sure your app has appropriate/suitable content and that the app meets basic quality standards
    • 3. Smoke test - RIM tests the app to make sure it meets the high quality standards that people have come to expect

That's it for now. Good stuff. So there's definitely going to be a widely distributed on-device client. I guess this means the carriers are playing nicely with RIM. I wonder if/when RIM will do a web-based store? The way this sounds, you'll have to be a BlackBerry owner to actually browse what's in the catalogue. I'm sure this is going to build up over time.

OK BlackBerry Developers.... quit reading CrackBerry.com and get to work!

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