BlackBerry App World goes online

Research In Motion launched an online version of its BlackBerry App World virtual storefront, effectively simplifying the process of browsing and purchasing applications for BlackBerry smartphones. The online BlackBerry App World adds a spotlight on featured items, a search bar and browsing by categories including "free," "paid" and "new" as well as app descriptions, prices, download sizes, screenshots and reviews. In addition, the online store makes it easier for consumers to share and recommend apps, adding links to Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Digg and Stumbleupon as well as e-mail--no doubt a significant addition for developers relying on viral marketing to promote their software.

What the online BlackBerry App World does not offer is direct sales--after an app is purchased via the desktop, the storefront sends an e-mail to the user's handset containing a link to download the program.

For more on the online BlackBerry App World:
- read this New York Times article

Related articles:
Research In Motion issues BlackBerry App World 1.1
BlackBerry App World doubles to 2,000 apps
BlackBerry App World sets $2.99 minimum price