Both Apple and Google are reportedly considering the introduction of new tools that would enable smartphone users to share mobile software with fellow consumers. Apple's iPhone 3.0 operating system update [1], coming this summer, will include peer-to-peer connectivity features enabling mobile game developers to add multi-player capabilities. In addition, the new Game Kit framework allows any application, not only games, to communicate between devices via Bluetooth. Now BusinessWeek reports Apple is mulling a possible expansion of the P2P functionality to allow users to send and receive App Store downloads from one iPhone to another--Richard Doherty, director at consultant Envisioneering Group, adds that users could even earn a commission when their recommendation spurs another consumer to make an application purchase. An Apple spokesperson declined comment, saying only "We've made no announcements at this time."
In a separate development, a Google-led group of software firms is also pondering user-to-user gifting and recommendations via the Android Market storefront, according to a source familiar with the discussions. Proponents contend that peer-to-peer app sharing offers a viable solution to content search and discovery challenges, especially as the number of applications available via the App Store and Android Market continues to multiply. BusinessWeek adds that user-to-user recommendations have also been proven to drive up sales for at least one wireless device, Microsoft's Zune digital music player.
For more on the app sharing rumors:
- read this BusinessWeek article [2]
Links:
[1] http://www.fiercemobilecontent.com/story/iphone-os-3-0-promises-more-100-new-features/2009-03-17
[2] http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/jun2009/tc2009062_417984.htm?chan=technology_technology+index+page_top+stories