Samsung kicks off 'Free the TV' contest for developers

Samsung is holding a contest designed to boost its HDTV app store, and the "Free the TV" challenge is certainly something to consider if you're a software developer given the cash and prizes up for grabs.

The contest kicks off today, and anyone interested in entering has until November 11 to submit the app and a video demonstrating how it works. The SDK is available from Samsung, with support for Javascript, XML and support for Adobe Flash Lite 3.1. It is intended to work on HDTVs and Blu-ray systems. To get an idea of what's already available, some of the big-name current apps include Twitter, Netflix, Pandora, Skype and even Monopoly.

There's $500,000 total in prize money, but the highest single prize amount is $200K while the lowest is $50K. Still, nothing to complain about. For a complete look at the prizes (both cash and Samsung home theater products), contest rules and further information about how to enter, check out the "Free the TV" challenge page.