The next version of the Windows Phone platform dubbed Mango, which comes equipped with several new features is slated for broad availability later this year. Microsoft revealed that it will be providing fresh Windows Phone developer tools to create next-generation apps and games for the platform at the MIX 11.
With this set of utilities, developers can create engaging real-time interactions through Push Notifications, Live Tiles, Background Agents and Deep Linking. The multitasking feature is vastly improved to facilitate background file transfers and quick app switching. The tools also aim at extending deeper phone integration and developers will be able to access the Motion Sensor library and camera.
“We’re doubling the number of countries that support creation and commerce, and we’re creating parity to the countries that only supported creation before and didn’t have the ability to sell their apps,” commented Brandon Watson, senior director of developer experience for Window Phone 7. “From an opportunity standpoint, that’s huge.”
Apart from proffering these tools, Microsoft also plans to extend developer opportunity through Windows Phone Marketplace. The mobile ecosystem will take into account approximately 35 different countries and expand its reach through new beta distribution services. Other opportunities provided by the marketplace are enhanced discoverability via Bing Search and more MO billing amongst others.
The new-fangled set of Windows Phone developer tools are scheduled for official launch next month.