Sony Ericsson to launch PlayNow mobile app store

Sony Ericsson announced it will collaborate with independent mobile applications portal GetJar to add apps to its PlayNow arena mobile content service, promising consumers one-click access to a fully integrated content marketplace that also includes the feature-length film download solution the handset maker introduced last week. According to Sony Ericsson, PlayNow arena will offer applications in the 13 international markets that currently support the content service--the platform will initially roll out across 38 compatible handset models, with additional markets and devices scheduled over the months ahead.

Sony Ericsson will begin accepting application submissions on July 1, enabling developers to sell their apps via both PlayNow arena and the manufacturer's Fun & Downloads online application storefront, which will remain operational in 69 markets. Sony Ericsson will initially limit submissions to applications optimized for the Symbian OS and Java ME, but said it will expand to additional platforms later this year. Sony Ericsson adds both PlayNow arena and Fun & Downloads will offer multiple billing solutions including SMS transactions, credit card usage and operator billing, but did not stipulate how much of the resulting revenues it will claim.

For more on the Sony Ericsson app store:
- read this release

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