14 DAY TRIAL // Via the Code7 Contest Microsoft is inviting software developers to build an application tailored to Windows 7. The next iteration of the Windows client is key to the competition, the Redmond company underlined, and devs will need to leverage the operating system and associated development resources in order to be eligible in the Code7 Contest. The grand prize is $17,777, the software giant informed, and a paid trip to the Professional Developer Conference 2009 in Los Angeles in November. The Code7 Contest debuted on July 13 and will end on October 10, 2009. Microsoft will announce the finalists and runners-up on October 26, and the Grand Prize winner on November 18.
“To enter, you must: build an original, consumer-oriented client application prototype that runs natively on Windows 7 (for example Win32, WPF, MFC or WinForms – not an Air application or just a gadget) and addresses one or more of the following topic categories: Simplify My Life; More Media, More Places; Gaming; Work From Anywhere; Safeguard Your Work; and Applications for a Better Tomorrow,” revealed Yochay Kiriaty, Windows 7 technical evangelist on the Client Platform Evangelist Group.
In addition, all applications submitted to the Code7 Contest will have to make use of at least one of the key technology features introduced with the operating system, including: Libraries, Windows Touch, Shell Integration, DX11 (DirectX 11), and the Sensor and Location Platform. Still, Microsoft revealed that programs that would leverage as many key features as possible would weigh more heavily than those that use only the bare minimum.
“To enter this contest you must create and submit a video in which you describe and demonstrate your application,” Kiriaty stated. “Entries received by 11:59 p.m. PT on August 15, 2009, will be eligible to win an “Early Bird” prize. Following the close of the first qualifications, a panel of judges will select two runner-up winners and one Finalist from each Region. Following judging, Microsoft will notify all winners and finalists and provide instructions for submitting their applications for evaluation. Finalists will be invited to present their applications to a panel of judges at the Microsoft Partner Developer Conference 2009 (PDC09) in Los Angeles, CA, USA.”
Microsoft indicated that one finalist would be chosen from each geographical region: China, Europe and United Kingdom, India and Southeast Asia, Japan, Australia, Antarctica, and New Zealand, Middle East and Africa, North America and South and Central America. In addition to the Grand Prize, Microsoft is prepared to offer an Early Bird Prize (a Code7 Award; and $1,000 Cash); a Runner-up Prize (a Code7 Award; and a laptop computer); a Finalist Prize (a Code7 Award; and an invitation and travel to present their application at PDC09 in Los Angeles, CA; and a copy of Windows 7 Ultimate signed by a Microsoft VP, estimated value $5,500).