Move over, Apple App Store and Android Marketplace. Microsoft announced that developers in 120 markets worldwide can begin uploading for-sale applications to the Windows 8 Store in advance of the Oct. 26 general availability of the new OS.
“We’re very excited to announce the last significant milestone in the rollout of the Windows Store,” Antoine Leblond, Windows Corporate Vice President, wrote in a MSDN blog post.
“The Store is now open for app submissions for all developers – individuals and companies – in our supported markets.” Leblond said the company hoped to reach “every developer with desire” across the globe.
Besides adding 89 new developer markets, Microsoft will give a free one-year store subscription to every paid member of MSDN. Similar deals are available to students and business partners though the “DreamSpark” and “BizSpark” programs, respectively
Along with the extra support, Microsoft is touting free dev tools, tons of supporting content on everything from reserving app names to processes for each program, submission and certification.
“ If you’ve been waiting for invitation restrictions to lift or waiting for market support,” wrote Leblond, “the Windows Store is ready for you to join today.”
Getting started is easy—just go to the Windows Store Dashboard on the Windows Dev Center and sign up.
