Windows Marketplace app update policy reversed

With Microsoft's Entertainment and Devices Division president Robbie Bach poised to keynote CTIA Wireless 2009 on Wednesday, the software giant on Tuesday responded to controversy over developer fees for its forthcoming Windows Marketplace for Mobile application storefront, announcing that programmers will now be able to deliver updates to their apps for free throughout the application lifecycle. In mid-March, Microsoft outlined pricing and revenue sharing details for Windows Marketplace for Mobile, which it first announced in February--in exchange for promising developers 70 percent of all revenues, premium and free pricing flexibility, and transparency throughout the certification process, Microsoft said it would charge an annual registration fee of $99 and limit the number of applications that developers can submit per year to just five. Each additional app submission will cost another $99. Last week, the blogosphere erupted with news that Microsoft planned to count all application updates as new submissions, charging developers who exceed their limit of five submissions $99 for each successive upgrade. The new policy will instead offer unlimited free updates, although other submission restrictions remain in place.

In addition, Microsoft said that Windows Marketplace for Mobile will offer consumers the option to purchase apps with a credit card or have charges appear directly on their phone bill. Customers also may return an application within 24 hours of purchase for a full refund. In related news, mobile operators that partner with Microsoft on Windows Marketplace for Mobile will gain access to a branded section of the WinMo apps catalog, offering carriers a channel to market their own applications and services to customers.

Microsoft also announced a flurry of mobile developer partners that have already signed on to offer applications through Windows Marketplace for Mobile. According to Microsoft, the likes of AccuWeather.com, The Associated Press, CNBC, EA Mobile, Facebook, Gameloft, Glu Mobile, Handmark, MySpace, Namco Networks, Netflix, Pandora, ShoZu, Sling Media and Zagat Survey will offer WinMo apps when the store launches later this year. Microsoft also will release its Windows Live for Mobile web services suite for free download in 25 languages, and will introduce a new beta version of Windows Live Hotmail available through a mobile web browser. Microsoft promises a new and improved Hotmail user interface, navigation enhancements for touchscreen devices and enhanced search.

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