Google to launch Android Market

Google is set to offer Android Market - its own App Store-like content distribution system for the Android mobile phone platform which will allow users to buy, download and install content for the upcoming Android devices.

On a posting for the Android Developers Blog, Eric Chuh explained that developers will be able to make their applications available via the service, which will be hosted by Google.

"Similar to YouTube, content can debut in the marketplace after only three simple steps: register as a merchant, upload and describe your content and publish it," he said. "We also intend to provide developers with a useful dashboard and analytics to help drive their business and ultimately improve their offerings."

Android-based devices are set for a late September release-date in the US, with T-Mobile the carrier and HTC the handset manufacturer. The first devices will feature beta versions of Android Market and support for free applications, according to Chuh.

In related news, the winners of the first Android Developer Challenge were announced this week, with ten finalists receiving $275,000 (£150,000) for creating apps such as a taxi-ordering service and carbon footprint calculator.

See also:

Android release looms with new SDK

Update gives clearer picture on Google smartphone  20 Aug 2008

Google set to take on Apple iPhone next month

New HTC device running Google Android is expected to launch in September  15 Aug 2008

Google's Android to kickstart mobile Linux

Might of search giant to shake up mobile industry  15 Jul 2008

Verizon chooses Linux over Google

Android loses out to LiMo Foundation  16 May 2008

Google tinkers with Android

Latest version of SDK adds new interface and location-based controls  14 Feb 2008

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