Following hot on the heels of Apple’s own official App Store, which provides approved software application downloads for iPhone and iPod Touch users, Net rumours suggest that T-Mobile U.S.A. is also preparing to launch an exclusive software store of its own.
Speculation, rumour, whispers, and chatter. Note: The following is currently unconfirmed. Image: T-Mobile.
According to an Apple Insider report, the upcoming store will be notable insofar as it will provide application access for every T-Mobile device, whether that be through simple Java support or via more complex platforms such as Google Android and Windows Mobile.
Other related (Chinese?) whispers, being channelled through online sources such as mocoNews, suggest third-party software developers looking to create applications for T-Mobile’s new store will need to pass through a submissions and promotional system similar to that which accompanied the release of Apple’s iPhone SDK.
Rumours also point to T-Mobile embracing a relaxed stance when it comes to focusing on specific applications approved for in-store availability, which could mean that prospective customers will be met with a rundown of the store’s most downloaded software as opposed to having preferences thrust at them as they pass through the virtual doors.
Unnamed sources apparently familiar with the store in its early stages point out that revenue payment to T-Mobile from contributing developers will be largely based upon the specific bandwidth demands of each application.
It is believed that T-Mobile will reap a more significant revenue percentage from streaming video and other bandwidth-heavy programs than simple text-based or offline applications.
In terms of comparison, Apple lops a mandatory 30 percent slice of revenue from all of its App Store offerings, regardless of size, weight or individual pricing.
T-Mobile U.S.A. has not yet issued an official comment on the current wave of Internet rumours surrounding the arrival of its carrier-wide application store, although it has launched an online developer Web site that is designed to assist enthusiastic software boffins in developing their mobile creations.
More details regarding T-Mobile’s application platform are expected to surface in the coming weeks.
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