Devs Get an Early Chance to Submit Windows 8 Apps to the Windows Store

The final release of Windows 8 is drawing near, and Microsoft is working on ensuring that the platform is capable of providing users with the features and capabilities they are looking for.

Thus, it wants to make sure that a load of Metro applications will be available for download for Windows 8 right from the start, and it is providing developers with the possibility to have software submitted to the portal in due time.

Developers can already download Windows 8 to start the development of applications for it, although the submission of apps is not yet open for all of them.

“However, we are looking for the first wave of great applications which highlight the power of Metro and Windows 8, especially from developers who want to get to market first and build their brand,” Microsoft’s Matt Harrington explains.

Developers interested in submitting applications to the Windows Store need a token, something that Harrington offers to help them with.

Basically, devs would have to create a new app or game, and contact Harrington via his blog’s contact form.

He will then help developers register to have the software reviewed through Microsoft’s Application Accelerator Labs, to be determined if it fits all the Metro guidelines and certification requirements.

“This is a great opportunity to not only be first to market with your app, but also to get feedback from a Microsoft Services Engineer to make your app great. If you are serious about creating an application, this is a chance that you probably don’t want to pass up,” he notes.

“In addition, our team is holding a series of events and office hours to help you. We want to make sure you have what you need to be successful. Come learn more about how to build apps for Windows 8, or show up and build your app with one of our evangelists or others in the community.”

The Windows Developer Camps that will enable developers to learn more about Windows 8 development include one in Redmond, WA. on May 11, 2012, one in Denver, CO. on June 1, 2012, and another in Chandler, AZ. on June 8, 2012.

Additionally, Microsoft will hold two Windows Application Accelerator Labs to devs get started with the building of their apps: one in Redmond, WA. between May 15 - 17, 2012, and another in Mountain View, CA. between May 22 - 24, 2012. Links to the registration pages are available in this blog post.