TechCrunch received several tips that Amazon is working on their own Android app store (same as Verizon Wireless). Before posting the story about the rumored Amazon app store, another tipster informed them that Amazon is working not just on an app store, but also an Android-based tablet for its store.
Below are some of the details of the Amazon app store from the TechCrunch post about the Amazon app store:
- $99 developer starter fee
- Apps must contain Amazon's DRM
- App store is U.S. only (for now)
- Apps in the Amazon app store must update at the same time that the app is updated on any other store
- Free apps can be offered
No details on the tablet are available at this point, as the rumor only mentioned that a tablet was in development, and not much else.
Phandroid expresses their skepticism of the success of Amazon's plans:
I personally can’t stand looking at that list of clauses found in the developer agreement (for which many have signed an NDA), and I’m having a hard time visualizing Amazon enticing developers to come from iOS to develop for an unproven device with more of the same restrictions. Don’t get me wrong: I’m all for more Android devices, but I’m just hoping Amazon doesn’t shoot themselves in the foot here.
On the fence about the future of an Amazon Android app store, and whether it would benefit or hurt the Android community? Head on over to AndroidGuys for a listing of the advantages and disadvantages that come with the move.
Other Sources: AndroidGuys, Phandroid
Image from TalkAndroid
Karlan Bousquet
I think that the Android it self as an OS will get so modified like Linux that there won't be one central OS unless you get it yourself.