Microsoft Launches Dev Tools and Marketplace for WP7
Microsoft just landed an enticing two hit combo with a wide array of developer tools and the priming up of the Windows Marketplace for WP7 applications. Developers would certainly appreciate getting all the needed tools and the preview of where their apps will be sold.
While as consumers, we do not really have much concern for developer tools -but it still provides us with a pretty good insight into the features and limitations of an upcoming system. In the case of WP7, it is already confirmed that the new OS will not be able to run old apps for WinMo 6.X.
This is confirmed by the dev tools as well, the new Visual Studio version used for coding adds an additional functionality that allows apps programmed for WP7 to run on other devices such as the computer or the Xbox 360 –something not possible with apps for previous versions.
The XNA Games Studio on the other hand brings full 3D into games. This also shows that the hardware requirements on WP7 devices would all be capable of delivering high end graphics as well as a pretty fast processor.
The Marketplace itself looks pretty different on Windows Phone 7. It follows the new large screen format that users will be panning around to navigate. Microsoft is also giving users a chance to try out apps before actual purchase –a feature that many would certainly appreciate.
So far, it is hard to determine which WP7 device will be coming out first. The LG Panther is a definite favorite with its slide out QWERTY keyboard and according to reports the phone will be set for release by September. There is also a newly announced Samsung WP7 device with a super AMOLED touch screen.
Find out more about the Marketplace for Windows Phone 7 series at Know Your Mobile.
Tags: Windows-Phone-7
