14 DAY TRIAL // Developers ready to build Cloud projects capable of running by default in modern browsers without requiring plug-ins to be installed, need to check out the details of the new Dev Unplugged contest launched by Microsoft. But participants need to keep in mind that they can only leverage technologies such as HTML, CSS and JavaScrip, and not Flash, Silverlight, etc.
Obviously, the focus should be placed on HTML5, with Microsoft’s Carter Rabasa noting that the standard enables the creation of vivid, interactive and compelling web apps to rival desktop programs.
In what can only be interpreted as another example of the software giant’s commitment to openness, the HTML5 applications submitted to the Dev Unplugged contest need to work not only in Internet Explorer 9 (IE9) Release Candidate (RC,) but also in the latest Beta release of Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
According to Microsoft, devs will need to build either games or music applications in order to be eligible for the contest.
“We’re not looking for the most complicated game, but we are definitely looking for games that are fun and addictive,” Rabasa revealed.
“And if that wasn’t enough to get you excited, here’s a news flash: Mike Mignola, the creator of Hellboy, has opened-up up a treasure trove of content for developers to use to create their HTML5 game.”
“Ok, so maybe you’re more of a music lover. Do you sometimes stare hypnotized for 30 minutes at the music visualizations in your music player? Have an idea for creating an unbelievable HTML5 website for your band? Have you invented a new instrument that’s perfect for the web? Now’s your chance to show everyone what it means to experience music on the web.
“And we’ve teamed-up with AWOLNATION and Ra Ra Riot to provide you with their most popular cuts to get started!”
The Redmond company will let the community vote the top 40 finalists, after which a panel of judges will select the winners.
The Dev Unplugged contest is already welcoming submissions as of March 1st, 2011. Starting with April 5th, the public will get to vote on the entries available, with Microsoft no longer accepting submissions as of May 9.
On May 12 the top 40 finalists will be unveiled to the world, and on the 23rd of the same month the company will announce the winners.
“The prizes include: $40,000 in total prizes including $9,000 for the Grand Prize; front page exposure on theFWA.com and beautyoftheweb.com; cool hardware: laptops and slates from Alienware, HP and ASUS; [and] an all-expense paid trip to the Future of Web Apps Las Vegas with “golden ticket” VIP access,” Rabasa added.
Internet Explorer 9 (IE9) Release Candidate (RC) Build 9.0.8080.16413 is available for download here.