Money Matters, Simplified.
'Go out and create lots of apps', Microsoft tells developers
by Akshay Sharma - November 2, 2012 - comments
At a large scale event in Seattle, Microsoft and about 2000 apps developers from different companies exchanged ideas to strengthen the recently launched Windows 8 platform.
Windows 8 has enjoyed grand launch and almost positive response from the users. After extensive advertising and consistent associated launches such as windows RT and Surface, Microsoft has bounced back its focus on upgrading the operating system. "Please go out and write lots of applications," said Microsoft Chief Executive Steve Ballmer.
The event known as 'build', brought together around 2000 Windows developers and the senior management officials to discuss and encourage new ideas for the latest offering. The four day meet saw Microsoft Chief executive pleading the requirement for more and more apps for the platform.
The event witnessed developers attendance from different companies who had paid USD 2000 as an attendance fee. As a sign of strengthening the campaign, Microsoft distributed Surface tablet to each. Moreover, the company's mobile associate Nokia gave them with their Windows 8 enabled smartphones Lumia 920. The attendees will also enjoy 100 GB free space on Microsoft's online storage portal SkyDrive.
Most developers were impressed by the new Windows and excited for the recently launched gadgets they received.
"The Surface is really exciting. It's been interesting to see people that would normally be critics of Microsoft surprised to see how good it is," said Greg Lutz, Product Manager at Component One that makes features that developers can use in apps, such as calendars or charts. "The sessions are overflowing. Everybody wants to learn," said Lutz.
Windows 8 has received widespread acclaim for the revolutionized look and abundant new features. But the profile still lacks additional applications that were highly anticipated before the release. Moreover, with stampede of apps being added to the Apple iOS and Google Android stores everyday, Microsoft has a lot of work left to keep their Windows 8 alternate alive amongst users who seems to have become addicted with the two A's, Apple and Android.
"The catalog (of apps) is where they are weak, there's no doubt," Lutz said. "But if Microsoft stays focused on quality not quantity, they can win."