Around the Net

Microsoft Paying App Developers

The respective mobile strategies of Apple and Google have benefited greatly from the hard work of devoted developer communities. Hoping to inspire similar devotion, Microsoft is paying developers to build mobile applications for its Windows Phone 7 system, according to Bloomberg.

"The company is providing financial incentives ranging from free tools and test handsets to funds for software development and marketing," Bloomberg reports based on interviews with Todd Brix, a senior director at Microsoft who works with app developers. "In some cases, Microsoft is providing revenue guarantees, and will make up the difference if apps don't sell as well as expected, he said." Amid the rise of mobile media and devices, Microsoft recently overhauled its flagship mobile operating system. But to attract consumers, the system will need to offer a robust offering of compatible games, music, navigation services, and other apps.

Read the whole story at Bloomberg »

Next story loading loading..