MS follows Apple's lead in Win Phone 7

Microsoft looks to be adopting an Apple-style approach to applications development and software rules with for its latest mobile operating system.

 

The software giant has unveiled the first details of its apps development tools for Windows Phone 7 along with an app store-style marketplace through which all approved content will be sold.

 

Developers gain access to free SDK’s, Microsoft’s Silverlight, and XNA Framework to produce new applications and 3D games.

 

In key areas such as allowing apps only from its app store and keeping control over hardware requirements, Microsoft is setting the same rules as Apple, GigaOm noted.

 

By contrast Android and RIM allow software from third-party stores to be installed.

 

The new Phone 7 is a complete revamp of the Microsoft’s earlier OS, Windows Mobile, whose market share was shrinking against RIM, Apple and Android.

 

Joe Belfiore, corporate vice president, Windows phone program management, says the OS was designed to make it easier for developers to produce compatible games and applications. “We are delivering an application platform that is simple, powerful, and inspiring,” he states.