Qualcomm launches multi-OS app store solution

Wireless technologies developer Qualcomm announced it will expand its Plaza solutions suite with the introduction of Plaza Retail, promising mobile operators the tools to deliver a uniform and intuitive application shopping experience that spans across multiple operating systems. According to Qualcomm, Plaza Retail will enable publishers and developers to make content available across multiple retailers instantly, regardless of their development platform. In addition, the solution means content is no longer tied directly to the device, allowing operators to offer subscribers the benefit of upgrading or changing handsets without losing their premium applications in the process.

Plaza Retail comprises three elements, including Management Center, a content merchandizing system supporting Java, BREW, Flash and BlackBerry, with planned support for Android, Windows Mobile, Palm, Symbian and LiMo. Management Center allows for managing pricing, licensing, packaging, promotions, placement, segmentation, personalization, delivery and analytics across multiple platforms. Plaza Retail also features Connection, an open marketplace bringing together retailers, device manufacturers and publishers by automating and streamlining the application ecosystem, and Storefront, a multi-platform client, web or WAP retail portal enabling retailers to update their store layout, promotions and micro-stores, forging a common branding and user experience across their entire device lineup.

For more on Plaza Retail:
- read this release

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