Microsoft gives sneak peek at high fashion apps store

Microsoft plans to show off its forthcoming Windows Marketplace for Mobile this week at CTIA 2009, as well as its ties to the fashion world.

Microsoft's Robbie Bach plans Thursday to discuss Microsoft's take on the mobile phone application store, an old concept that is being reinvented for the smartphone following the success of Apple's App Store. Windows Marketplace for Mobile won't arrive until later this year, along with Windows Mobile 6.5, but this week the company will demonstrate how users can select, purchase, and download an application from their Windows Mobile handsets.

Microsoft plans a similar revenue-sharing model as Apple, with 70 per cent of application revenue going to the developer and 30 to Microsoft. It also plans to charge developers more money for multiple submissions.

Bach will announce that Windows Mobile users will have 24 hours to return any application they purchase for a full refund. Applications can be purchased on the phone or through a web site, and billing will be handled by credit card or through the wireless carrier's bill.

Carriers will be able to set up a "store within a store" on Windows Marketplace for Mobile, said Aaron Woodman, a director in Microsoft's Mobile Communications business.

Woodman declined to comment on whether or not Microsoft will be sharing any of its 30 per cent cut with carriers, but it does plan to let carriers have a link off the Marketplace homepage to showcase their own applications.

While Microsoft and its partners work out the details for the Marketplace, the company is also announcing a deal to let Windows Mobile users add a little bit of style to their phones.

Microsoft has cut deals with two design houses - Design Museum London and Council of Fashion Designers of America - to have artists and designers create themes and wallpaper for Windows Mobile phones. Isaac Mizrahi will be the first to participate.

Original article: Microsoft to take mobile Marketplace for test drive from CNET News.com