We're only a month away from Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 being released, but is Microsoft shooting itself in the foot? Windows Phone Central has had access to the Windows Phone SDK for a few days now, but what about every established developer on the platform? Unfortunately this doesn't appear to be the case - as our Jay Bennet knows too well.
We're not entirely sure why Microsoft hasn't released the SDK to the community yet, which makes the upcoming launch a fairly tight deadline for developers who wish to create new apps or update existing ones that are already available on the Store. But there's another issue. Windows 8 is set to be released and will need apps and games at launch to have a successful start and build momentum.
You want access? You can't handle the access!
Fellow Windows Phone developer Bill Reiss, has published an insightful article on his blog going into detail how Microsoft is potentially causing issues that could hurt the Windows Store. The Windows Store is open for all developers to submit content to, but Reiss notes Microsoft has hurt relations with Windows Phone developer community, which could play an important role in the immediate advancement of the Windows Store.
"The holding back of the Windows Phone 8 SDK has been another issue. Loyal Windows Phone developers (who are very likely to be working on Windows 8 apps) are not happy with the limited access to the SDK. Unless Microsoft announces some incredible new secret feature for Windows Phone which warranted all of this secrecy there’s likely to be an all out revolt."
The company has been extremely secretive when it comes to Windows Phone 8, especially with press not being able play with the loaded operating system on new hardware, but is this secrecy coming at a price?
Reiss continues to explain how Microsoft could progress from its current predicament - from opening up new developer contests and giveaways to providing a crisp and clear message what technologies will be supported in the future.
"Make an announcement that every new Windows RT device sold will come with a $20 (or $10 or whatever) credit for buying apps. Developers will be encouraged to create quality apps to get a piece of that pie."
We can't help but agree with Reiss' suggestions, but will Microsoft take action? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Source: Bill Reiss
