Microsoft begins Windows Marketplace payouts for WP7 apps

Having previously pencilled in the fourth week in January as the starting gun for Windows Phone 7 payouts, Microsoft appears to have kept to its word, with CNET reporting that the process of rewarding studios with their revenue has begun.

In short, that means it's taken roughly three months for Microsoft to begin paying those working on the platform.

Microsoft's mystery

Little is known as to just how the majority of studios are performing on Windows Marketplace, with app sales data so far something of a mystery.

The only concrete figure refers to shipments, with Microsoft having sold 2 million units to vendors and carriers in 2010.

Developer-wise, CNET reports those it has spoken to are currently happy with the sales they've enjoyed so far.

Indeed, our interviews with studios working on the platform stand as testament to the largely positive experience most appear to be having on Microsoft's new OS, even if app sales are unlikely to match those on either iOS or Android just yet.

[source: CNET]