Intel invites developers for app program

SAN FRANCISCO, US: To encourage the creation of innovative applications for Intel Atom processor-based products, Intel Corporation today launched the Intel Atom Developer Program for independent software vendors (ISVs) and developers.

The program provides a framework for developers to create and sell software applications for netbooks with support for handhelds and smart phones available in the future.

"We want to fuel the growth of Intel Atom-based products designed for the mobile lifestyle," said Renee James, corporate vice president and general manager, Intel Software and Services Group. "The Intel Atom Developer Program provides a great opportunity for developers to create useful and inventive applications that will unlock a netbook's potential while opening a new sales and distribution channel."

To provide the broadest choice of applications across platforms, the Intel Atom Developer Program will support multiple operating systems and run-time environments, said a press release.

Run-times such as Microsoft Silverlight allow developers to access multiple classes of customers and deliver rich applications for Windows and Moblin-based environments using a single toolset, Visual Studio and the .NET Framework.

“Using Silverlight's cross-device, cross-browser, cross-platform technology, developers would be able to write applications once and have them run on Windows and Moblin devices – expanding the reach of Silverlight applications to more consumers, regardless of whether the device they're using is a PC, TV or phone,"said Ian Ellison Taylor, general manager, Microsoft Client Platforms and Tools

David Wadhwani, general manager and vice president, Adobe Platform Business Unit added that  they expect the Intel Atom Developer Program will be a great way for the flash platform community developing on Adobe AIR to monetize their AIR applications and they are working closely with Intel to deliver the necessary technology to enable this opportunity on the Atom platform in the future.

The program offers a streamlined and transparent process that will take the developer from application creation through testing and, finally, to the go-to-market stage. Intel is working with netbook original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and other partners to create application storefronts through which validated applications will be sold.

"Dell is passionate about providing value for developers," said John Thode, vice president, Dell Small Devices.

He further added that the Intel Atom Developer Program will open a new world of innovation and business opportunity for developers and they look forward to working with Intel to foster the creation of exciting new Windows and Moblin-based netbook applications.

Developers can learn more about the program, APIs, validation process and application store framework through appdeveloper.intel.com. The Intel Atom Developer Program software development kits will be available to members in late fall.