Amazon launches Appstore for Android

Amazon has launched an app store for Android devices where owners can preview and download apps from a tablet, smartphone or computer.

Known as the Amazon Appstore for Android, customers can test out an app on a virtual Android phone before committing to buy it by using the Test Drive feature. The Appstore will also incorporate some features common to the Amazon.com website, such as personalised recommendations, customer reviews and 1-Click payment.

"Our customers have told us that the sheer number of apps available can make it hard to find apps that are high quality and relevant to them. We've spent years developing innovative features that help customers discover relevant products," Paul Ryder, vice president of electronics for Amazon.com, said in a statement. "By applying these features — plus new ones like Test Drive — we're aiming to give customers a refreshing app shopping experience."

Users wanting to download apps directly from their handset will first need to install the Amazon Appstore app by entering their email address or mobile number on the Amazon.com website and following the instructions.

The Appstore for Android portal is currently only available in the US though Amazon said it is considering a more widescale release.

"We are a global business and we will continue to evaluate opportunities to do what's in the best interest of our customers. At this time, we have not announced plans on international launches," a spokesperson for the company told ZDNet UK in a statement on Wednesday.

On Friday, Apple filed a lawsuit against Amazon in the US over use of the term 'app store', which Apple is attempting to trademark.