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Web-based Windows Phone dev tool has built 65,000 apps, gets upgraded with NFC
Some gave short shrift to Windows Phone App Studio beta when it launched in August, but its web based development tool is proving to be popular -- developers have already built 65,000 apps. Microsoft hopes to keep that momentum going with a slew of App Studio upgrades that should make these fast-track apps even more powerful. Beta users can now integrate other phone functions into their apps with simple, menu-driven "actions" that include context-aware tasks like dialing numbers. The update also enables NFC for beaming software to other App Studio users, and it's possible to earn money through the official Windows Phone ad kit. Those keen on using any of the beta's new tricks just have to sign into App Studio at the source link.
Windows Phone App Studio makes it easy to build WP8 apps
Say what you will about Microsoft's ecosystem struggles, but no one can fault it for trying. In an effort to get more developers to give Windows Phone 8 more than a passing glance, the outfit has just launched a beta version of Windows Phone App Studio -- a web-based dev environment that's "designed to help anyone quickly bring an idea to life by applying text, web content, imagery, and design concepts to any one of a rich set of customizable templates." Moreover, Microsoft is now allowing any dev to unlock and register a single phone to use with up to two apps, and it's also offering a $19 "Summer Break" Dev Center registration offer for those looking to actually publish software to the store. Finally, a new "Click To Chat" support program is being instituted to help those who can't quite seem to overcome a programming hurdle. Take a look at the company's blog post for the full skinny.
