We are just a few months away from Windows Phone 7 launching. It is
key the operating system and hardware perform well, but today,
having only that doesn't mean much. Third party apps are at least
as important, if not more so, than the core phone itself. If only
10 percent of those that have downloaded the developer kit write an
app, Microsoft's mobile OS will have a decent application library
in no time.
Microsoft's Windows Phone Developer blog is claiming that over
300,000 people have downloaded the Windows Phone Developer Tools.
Microsoft has had an off-again/on-again relationship with free
development tools for mobile developers over the years. Given the
uphill battle the company faces against RIM, Apple and Google, they
need every advantage they can get. Say what you want about
Microsoft, they make great development tools.
Microsoft expects to release the final version of the tools on
September 16, so if you are a developer you'll want to grab that to
ensure your app works with the non-beta build of the software.
Microsoft has been doing a number of things to spur development of
applications. They have paid developers of key apps to port their
iPhone or Android app to Windows Phone. In other cases, they are
working with developers to ensure their software will work with the
phone. Companies that they have helped out include ebay, Flixter,
Esurance, Trip Mate, Realtor.com and the Associated Press.
If you aren't developing for Windows Phone yet and would like to
get started, head over to the blog. They have links to the
software, information on getting your app in the Marketplace and
links to courses to help you get going. They also have a link to
the Windows Phone Marketplace policies that give very clear rule
about application certification so you know exactly what will and
won't be allowed.