Samsung has announced it will roll out its app store for users in three European countries starting 14th September.

The UK, France and Italy will be first, with more than 30 countries including Germany and Spain to follow.

Initially, the store will be only be accessible on-device for users of the Omnia and I8910 HD phones.

Omnia customers can download the mobile client from samsungapps.com. I8910 HD customers can upgrade their software by selecting the Application Download icon on their phones.

In terms of how the Samsung Application Store works, it uses both credit card and operator billing.

Support will also be expanded to Omnia II and OmniaLITE devices, and a PC-based client is planned.

Over 300 applications are promised at launch. This is expected to grow to over 2,000 by the end of 2009, with game publishers such as Gameloft, Electronic Arts, Handmark, TAITO, Capcom, and Com2us signed up.

"With the launch of the Application Store, Samsung will increase mobile phone sales and add value for its mobile customers through the availability of carefully selected applications," said Hosoo Lee, executive vice president of Samsung's Media Solution Center.

"The Application Store will expand the service channel, not only on handheld devices but also on PCs through the launch of new PC software. The software will allow customers to download applications and manage them on a PC to maximise service usability."

From 14th September, you will be able to browse the Samsung Application Shop online at samsungapps.com.