It’s not just killer cellphones on show at Mobile World Congress. Apps, of course, will be taking centre stage too, the uber-popular add-ons even getting their own area on the show floor, App Planet. So what is App Planet? And how does it affect what you’ll be doing with your phone in the next 12 months? Get stuck in and we’ll explain it all.
What is it?
App Planet is being billed by MWC bosses as “an event within an event.” To non corporate types, that means it’s a place where app developers can shout from the rafters about the stellar new extras they’re beavering away on without being drowned about by the mobile cobblers and their sexy new handsets.
Who’s involved?
Some of the biggest names going. We’re talking Google, RIM, Sony Ericsson, Motorola and Vodafone. That means emphasis will be firmly on Android, BlackBerry and Symbian extras, although news of Opera for iPhone means Apple will doubtless get a look in, even if it’s not gracing Barcelona with its presence.
Why’s it such a big deal?
Thanks to the App Store’s billion-selling success, apps have gone truly global. And that means there’s moolah to be made for all the big players, not to mention one man developers. App Planet is a chance for devs to share ideas at the myriad powwows, show off plans and reaffirm just how apps have changed the way everyone uses their mobiles forever.
Will devs be working on new ideas at Mobile World Congress?
Absolutely. There are get togethers every day for different platforms, with Vodafone 360, Android, MotoDev and BlackBerry developers sessions designed to help new ideas get fast tracked to your phone. Fingers crossed we’ll be able to sample some of the goods and take some snaps to show you just what could be on offer for your sleek new smartphone.
When will you see these apps on your phone?
The million dollar question. It all depends which phone you have. But with Android Market open to new ideas and BlackBerry App World growing apace, the hottest new efforts should be landing on your cell at some point this year.
Don’t forget we’ll be at Mobile World Congress all next week, bringing you the latest news, gossip and hands-on pics from the show floor.
