Some improvements are coming to the Android Market for developers, but it's not clear how far these latest updates will go in terms of bumping up the market's prowess.
In an Android Developers blog post yesterday, Google says improvements are coming to the market, including features to improve the "overall experience for users." The post says the changes are due to arrive "soon."
Developers for Android 1.6 will be able to provide screenshots, promotional icons and descriptions that will better show off their applications and games. Google also added four new sub-categories for applications – sports, health, themes and comics – and seller support for developers in Italy.
Developers and publishers have pointed out the market – and other app stores, for that matter – can use some improvements, especially given the incredible ease-of-use that Apple presents in its store. "Apple makes it look easy," says Jill Braff, senior vice president, global publishing, at Glu Mobile.
Glu has about 10 games on the Android Market and worked with Google from the beginning of its development. "That's given us the ability to learn a lot about Android," she says, adding she expects improvements to come as Google won't sit idle. A couple areas due for change are in the currency system and the way in which apps, free and paid, are displayed to consumers.
Yesterday, Sprint announced it will carry the Android-based HTC Hero beginning Oct. 11 for $179.99 after rebates. T-Mobile USA offers the $199.99 HTC myTouch 3G, a successor to the first Google phone, the G1.