Microsoft is looking to revamp its entire mobile phone segment. The company has confirmed that it is mulling the possibility of
including more open source apps to its Marketplace. Microsoft had recently brought about some changes in its Application Provider Agreement. The changes placed a ban on apps licensed under public licenses such as GNU GPLv 3. However, seems like Microsoft has taken a cue from Android's support for open-source apps.
The company has now reiterated its allegiance to the cause of open source and stated that it supports various open source licenses such as BDS, Apache and MIT. Microsoft also said that it would be reviewing its agreement again and would strive to provide support to more open source licenses. Well, if Microsoft is planning to compete with Android and Apple App market, then it better take this step at the earliest. The company's Marketplace is woefully inadequate in comparison to its competitors'.
Source: Slashgear
One thought on “Microsoft to Include More Open Source Apps in it App Marketplace”
It is Philip Copeman here, project leader of TurboCASH Accounting.
Microsoft – here is a suggestion for a friend and long time supporter of Windows:
It is time to take two humilty pills and chill out. Windows is not the top dog in the mobile space. It may be very difficult for you to adjust to this reality, but unless you do, you are likely to die in this segment.
A little humility will go a long way to getting support from a whole group of communities that can enhance your mobile offering. Open source projects like TurboCASH, Open Office, Fire Fox, Thunderbird, Firebird, PHP will have little problem porting to Windows Mobile and can bring a much needed momentum to your catch up.
This is not the time to be ranting like Steve Jobs from his hospital bed. This is the time to be looking for ways to assist us to offer top of the drawer mobile apps that will bring our communities to your platform.
Take two pills and call me in the morning.