Windows Phone 7 App Store

The Windows 7 Phone App Store is open and has received over 2000 new apps within the first few weeks. Microsoft have strict guidelines in place for apps, ensuring that apps are both appropriate and styled in such a way as to make using the phone a delight.

The apps store, or Marketplace as it is correctly known, is available both on a Windows Phone 7 handset and through the Zune software. What makes it different to most other app stores is that from your phone you can also download music, direct from the Marketplace.

On visiting the marketplace on a Windows Phone 7 device you are presented with a menu of options. You can visit the phone manufacturer app store, browse the full app store of apps, browse games or even download music all from one place.

Some of the apps allow you to take a free trial, allowing you to try before you buy. This is especially good for expensive apps so that you can assess if they will be worth the investment. The screenshots also give a nice indication of how the app works, and of features perhaps not mentioned in the write up.

Apps, music and games can also be purchased and downloaded through the Zune software, although the manufacturer only apps are not available through this method.
Despite the rumoured strict guidelines for the Windows 7 Phone App store frowning upon free apps, there are a number of free apps available. The app store now contains all the standard ‘must have’ apps including YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, IMDB and eBay.