Bright opportunities for app developers: Intel AppUp center expands its reach

As the worldwide population of netbook owners surges toward 100 million, one point is clear: there are many underserved consumer without easy access to apps, at the moment, offering bright opportunities for developers. The Intel AppUp(sm) center gives developers multiple ways to reach potential netbook customers and gain success in this burgeoning market. This article discusses the ways developers can tap into a growing network of netbook app storefronts and benefit from the substantial opportunities that currently exist.

Trusted stores target netbook consumers

The Intel AppUp center offers particular appeal to a consumer segment termed tech selectives, who tend to use technology only in a targeted way: to better organize their lives, to stay current with world news and local events, and to share with friends and family. Tech selectives are not technically savvy, so they value the safety and security of an app store where they can be assured validated, virus-free apps. With a simplified purchase and download system, the Intel AppUp center delivers customer-rated apps seamlessly and provides an easy support and updating process for buyers. Consumers also can sample any app with a try-before-you-buy feature that lowers the risk of purchases.

A second segment termed trendy mobiles includes consumers who turn to technology for personal creativity, entertainment, and to engage with online communities. Trendy mobiles were among the first to adopt netbooks. These more discriminating users often weigh and evaluate technology solutions more thoroughly. Features in the Intel AppUp center that support their preferences include the wide range of app categories, the user comment and rating systems for apps, and the ability to download and try apps before buying.

Adobe AIR apps, often converted Flash-based apps, such as Thumbplay, SuperWhy, and NoteSync, have proven popular with netbook users. These initial Flash developers are capitalizing on these unrepresented consumer segments where opportunities for new apps are considerable. The collaboration between Intel and Adobe InMarket lets developers obtain the billing, publishing, and broad marketing advantages of the Intel AppUp center through their existing Adobe developer program membership. Each app can be published to multiple store fronts and managed through the Adobe InMarket portal. The exposure and market reach is exceptional. Publish once and reach tens of millions of prospective customers.

Expanding network of storefronts

In general, app stores are crowded places. Getting your app noticed can be a challenge. You have a much better chance of being noticed and reaching the ideal customer base for your app through a network of stores that cater to unique classes of users. The Intel AppUp center gives developers a clear path to reach specialized audiences—both in terms of application types and branded storefronts that cater to unique segments of users.

The Intel AppUp center continues to expand its list of store partners, which now includes Best Buy, ASUS, Croma, and Dixon's Retail. Intel AppUp center comes pre-installed on netbooks purchased from these retailers, providing quick access to partner-branded AppUp stores. App buyers shop in familiar, trusted outlets with the backing of major brand names—a definite confidence builder.

Emerging categories of machines with new capabilities—such as the Dell Inspiron Duo, which doubles as a tablet and netbook—open new app development targets. Developers with an Intel AppUp center presence will be well positioned to capitalize on new device types. Apps designed for tablet use require a whole different set of interface features and will be a fresh opportunity for the developers who gear their software to these types of emerging markets. Over time, the AppUp center will be expanding to include a broader continuum of devices, including tablets, smart TVs, smart phones, and in-vehicle infotainment devices. Opportunities will continue to grow for those forward-looking developers who target new device types as they become familiar and accepted.

Increased market visibility and presence worldwide

The growing momentum behind the Intel AppUp center and expanding partner network ensures that your hard work as a developer won't be invisible to the world at large. As part of a respected and far-reaching community of developers, you'll have access to markets around the world and a solid platform upon which to offer your apps to motivated buyers.

Customer ratings in Intel AppUp center stores give users insight into the strengths of your app and help grow sales. Quick sharing of app impressions through social networking widgets for Facebook and Twitter also help get the word out and drive more interest and visitors to the point of purchase. Banner ads posted on high-traffic sites, such as CNN, also draw customers and build awareness of Intel AppUp center stores.

As a developer, your presence in the online stores also lets you share the benefits of marketing campaigns by Intel, retail partners, and netbook manufacturers—all of which help attract new store visitors and increase your exposure and visibility to prospective customers.

It's easy to gain an edge

Getting your app validated and making it available through the Intel AppUp center and partner sites is now a streamlined process. Registered members of the Adobe InMarket service automatically have access to both the InMarket portal and the Intel AppUp distribution channels.

To get started, first download the Intel AppUp center client application from appup.com. Then, download and use the Adobe InMarket licensing SDK available through the InMarket Portal or from appdeveloper.intel.com. Finally, when your app is ready, publish it to the Intel AppUp center.

Some opportunities in life are too good to pass up. The Intel AppUp center offers a variety of ways to help unlock the entrepreneurial spirit and bring innovative, entertaining apps to appreciative netbook users. As the capabilities of mobile computing devices increase, the need for well-designed apps to give users memorable computing experiences will increase as well. The Intel AppUp center and Adobe InMarket service provide complementary distribution paths to get your app seen, downloaded, and enjoyed. Get engaged today and get your app distributed around the world.