Microsoft begins accepting apps for Windows Phone SDK 8.0 dev preview program
Microsoft has begun accepting applcations to the Windows Phone SDK 8.0 developer preview program, enabling developers to begin optimising existing Windows Phone apps for the new OS.
The firm claims the "majority" of developers with apps already published on the marketplace should qualify for access, though those behind less successful titles may be left out in the cold.
The steps
This decision to focus on key developers appears to have been taken to ensure unannounced Windows Phone 8 features remain under wraps for the time being.
Indeed, Microsoft claims the SDK includes "comprehensive emulators that allow developers to test apps against a wide range of Windows Phone features."
The SDK itself is built on top of Visual Studio 2012 to allow developers to build apps that target both Windows Phone 8 and 7.5.
It's a secret
"I know that many of you want to know why we simply dont publically release the full SDK now," said Todd Brix, a senior director of Microsoft's mobile communication business.
"We recognise that this is a different approach to delivering tools than weve taken in the past.
"Our goal is to generate as much Windows Phone 8 excitement as possible to attract new customers when phones go on sale. This is one of many steps were taking to help give you what you (and we) want most."
Those interested in applying will find a form to complete on the Microsoft Connect site. The deadline for completing this is 5pm PDT on 17 September.
[source: WindowsPhoneBlog]
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