Microsoft's block on thirdparty marketplaces for Windows Phone made it especially unlikely the firm would adopt any other strategy for Windows 8.

Nonetheless, the company has officially gone on record on the matter for the first time, detailing its strategy for the distribution of apps on the platform.

As expected, the side-loading of titles on Windows 8 will be prohibited – for apps designed for the platform's Metro UI, at least.

Lock on side-loading

The info, dished out on Microsoft's Dev Center website, confirms 'apps' for Windows 8 in its legacy form – i.e., the traditional desktop OS we're all used to – will be distributed openly, through "retail stores, web, private networks, individual sharing, and so on".

Apps designed for the platform's Metro-style start -up screen, however, will be limited to the official Windows Store.

Only developers and enterprise will be able to side-load apps onto devices, the former to aid testing.

"Apps must pass certification so that users download and try apps with confidence in their safety and privacy," the firm says in the documentation.

"Side-loading is available for enterprises and developers."

Elsewhere, Microsoft claims the store, just like Windows Phone Marketplace, will support trial versions and in-app purchases, while it's expected – though yet to be confirmed – the 70/30 revenue split adopted by Microsoft's mobile platform will also be adopted.

[source: Microsoft]