Windows Marketplace for Mobile: A History of Microsoft's Early App Store
Before the modern era of integrated app ecosystems, Microsoft ventured into the mobile software distribution space with the Windows Marketplace for Mobile. This service aimed to centralize how users discovered and installed software on their handheld devices, marking a significant shift in the Windows Mobile experience.
The Origins and "Skymarket" Rumors
The road to the official launch began in September 2008. At the time, the internet was buzzing with rumors of a new service tentatively referred to as "Skymarket." These speculations were fueled by a job listing on Microsoft's official website seeking a "Senior Product Manager," leading many to believe the service would debut alongside the release of Windows Mobile 7.
Official Launch and Expansion
The transition from rumor to reality occurred on February 16, 2009, during the Mobile World Congress. Microsoft officially announced the service, designating it for use with the then-upcoming Windows Mobile 6.5 devices. The company set a target for the service to be fully available by the end of 2009.
The store officially opened for business on October 6, 2009, launching with a catalog of 246 applications. While it was initially exclusive to Windows Mobile 6.5, Microsoft expanded access to older Windows Mobile 6.x versions a few weeks later to ensure a broader user base could benefit from the platform.
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To further enhance accessibility, Microsoft launched the Marketplace web application on November 12, 2009, allowing users to interact with the store via a web browser.
Key Facts
- Initial Codename: Rumored as "Skymarket" in 2008.
- Official Announcement: February 16, 2009, at the Mobile World Congress.
- Launch Date: October 6, 2009.
- Starting Catalog: 246 applications at launch.
- Primary OS Support: Windows Mobile 6.5 and subsequent 6.x versions.
- Final Shutdown: Marketplace for Mobile was discontinued on May 9, 2012.
The Decline and Discontinuation
By mid-2011, Microsoft began scaling back the service. On July 15, 2011, the company announced it would no longer accept submissions for new applications or updates to existing software. Simultaneously, the Marketplace website ceased offering Windows Mobile 6.x applications for download.
During this transition, users with Windows Mobile 6.x phones were instructed to use the Marketplace client directly on their devices to purchase and access apps. However, this was a temporary measure, as the entire Marketplace for Mobile service was officially discontinued on May 9, 2012.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| September 2008 | "Skymarket" rumors surface via job listings |
| February 16, 2009 | Official announcement at Mobile World Congress |
| October 6, 2009 | Store opens with 246 apps |
| November 12, 2009 | Web application launched |
| July 15, 2011 | New app submissions and web downloads end |
| May 9, 2012 | Service officially discontinued |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the rumored name of the service before its launch?
Before its official announcement, the service was referred to in internet rumors as "Skymarket."
When did the Windows Marketplace for Mobile officially open?
The store opened for business on October 6, 2009.
How many apps were available at the time of launch?
The marketplace featured 246 applications when it first opened.
Which operating systems were supported by the Marketplace?
It was initially available for Windows Mobile 6.5 and was later extended to older Windows Mobile 6.x versions.
When did Microsoft stop accepting new app submissions?
Microsoft stopped accepting new applications and updates to existing ones on July 15, 2011.
When was the service completely shut down?
Marketplace for Mobile was officially discontinued on May 9, 2012.