Sony Ericsson announced that it will launch an online software applications store and by August customers will be able to personalise their phones with utilities, tools and games.
The company aims to support software environments in its phones, including its internally developed platforms, Symbian operating system, the mobile version of Microsoft (MSFT) Windows and the new open-source Android system backed by Google (GOOG).
The company views the entry-level 3G phone segment as a future growth area of the market and aims to grow its share of the 3G Java phone market.
Developers can submit applications to Sony for testing and approval beginning July 1 and if the applications are accepted, they’ll go live within a month. Initially, the service will be offered in 13 countries where PlayNow arena is available.
The submition process will be initially open for programmes written for Java ME and Symbian but the company says that it will expand to cover additional platforms later this year. Christopher David, head of developer and partner engagement at Sony Ericsson, said: We want to make it easier and more affordable for developers and consumers to create and consume content.
