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Windows Marketplace now free for student developers

Windows Marketplace has existed for a while, but the Windows Marketplace for Mobile (codename SkyMarket) is a new creation directly rivalling the App Store for iTunes and the iPhone.With the new release of the Windows Mobile 6.
Written by Zack Whittaker, Contributor

Windows Marketplace has existed for a while, but the Windows Marketplace for Mobile (codename SkyMarket) is a new creation directly rivalling the App Store for iTunes and the iPhone.

With the new release of the Windows Mobile 6.5 device which is only around the corner, applications can be downloaded from the Marketplace directly to your phone, opening up the possibilities with your new device; just as the iPhone has done for a year or so already.

Talk about jumping on the Apple bandwagon...

Nevertheless, student developers are on the rise and more people are spreading to the mobile market for a better share of revenue. Everyone has a computer nowadays, but more people have a mobile device or two. It makes perfect sense, if you ask me.

For those who want to start developing now, the Windows Mobile Platform is already available, and useful for getting up to speed with the new features of the Windows Mobile 6.5 devices.

From reading the press release:

"The registration fee is waived for student developers who want to reach Windows® phones customers, through enrollment in the Microsoft DreamSpark program."

So the interesting twist is developers will need to pay $99 to register with the Marketplace, and a subsequent $99 for every application they submit - students who are part of DreamSpark (which is free to sign up to) can develop, build and submit for absolutely free.

DreamSpark already boasts a number of applications which are designed to help students develop and create applications, such as Visual Studio 2005/2008 Professional Edition and SQL Server 2008. For those who can't develop yet, an IT Academy Student pass is ideal for those who want to join in.

On the other hand, DreamSpark still seems to fail when it comes to pleasing students through academia, which is the main reason for going to university after a.ll

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