BlackBerry App World 2.0 Launches with Carrier Billing

Canadian mobile phone maker Research In Motion has just announced the release of a new, enhanced version of its mobile applications portal, namely the BlackBerry App World 2.0. Available only in a beta flavor until now, the solution comes with a nice range of features both for end-users and for developers, including new pricing tiers.

According to RIM, one of the main features available for users via the new BlackBerry App World 2.0 is the possibility to have the applications they purchased included in their monthly carrier bill.

However, “carrier billing is only available with select carriers. Please check with your carrier for supported services,” the company added.

Currently, BlackBerry App World 2.0 is available in 65 countries around the world.

Other new features included in the portal would be barcode scanning capabilities, streamlined MyWorld view, new 'Top 25' lists, as well as the aforementioned new pricing levels.

Starting with the final flavor of BlackBerry App World 2.0, users of a RIM smartphone would be able to find applications available for their devices at prices starting at US$0.99, with the US$2.99 price level also included into the mix.

In addition to these features, the new release comes with novelties for the BlackBerry development community too, RIM announced, including the said new price points.

“Developers have also asked for these new price points to better align with the value and target market for certain applications, and to better encourage impulse purchases,” a recent post on the BlackBerry Developer's Blog reads.

On the other hand, RIM suggests that developers should price their applications according to their value, since BlackBerry smartphone users make purchases based on this.

BlackBerry App World 2.0 comes with new billing models, including credit card and carrier billing, which should prove beneficial for developers, as users would find it easier to purchase applications from the portal.

“As a developer, this all means more opportunity for your applications – more users in more places, more ways for customers to purchase your apps, and more ways to be found in top applications lists,” the blog post continues.