Intel Atom Dev Program SDK released; paid-app validation process open

Intel have released the beta of their Atom Developer Program Software Development Kit (SDK), last discussed back in September, to allow Windows and Moblin developers to create (or port) applications and potentially monetize them with distribution on upcoming Atom-based netbooks. Software must be validated and approved by Intel, and paid-for apps are expected to be released in 2010.

The beta SDK contains tools for authorization, crash reporting and a consumer store client emulator for testing, and any apps submitted for validation must integrate with the SDK.  The exception is open-source titles, which won't be revenue-generating.  You can download the SDK here, but you'll need to register first; that will eventually cost $99, but is currently free.

Intel's eventual plan is for an on-device download store – similar to the various app stores on smartphones – through which netbook buyers (and in fact any device based on an Atom CPU, including MIDs and some future smartphones) could find free and paid-for software for their new machine.  No timescale in 2010 has been given for the store's release.

Press Release:

Intel Offers Developer Kit For Future Atom™ Processor Netbook Apps

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

Developers can now submit their applications and be the first to take full advantage of the Intel Atom Developer Program's revenue-generating opportunities.

The program's newly released beta software development kit for Windows* and Moblin* provides developers with tools to ensure their netbook applications are store-ready.

Apps are for Intel-based netbooks, which are forecasted to reach more than 50 million** units sold by end of 2009.

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Dec. 2, 2009 – Intel Corporation has made its beta version of the Intel® Atom™ Developer Program Software Development Kit (SDK) available for Microsoft Windows* and Moblin* operating systems developers. The kit helps software companies and individuals design and submit applications ("apps") for Intel-based netbooks to ultimately sell at stores opening next year.

Developers can download the kit and learn more at appdeveloper.intel.com.

Unveiled at the Intel Developer Forum in September, the Intel Atom Developer Program is designed for independent software vendors (ISVs) and software developers to create innovative applications and/or components for netbooks. The program provides tools, SDKs and community resources to develop new apps or port existing apps to Atom-based devices, including netbooks, which are forecasted to reach more than 50 million** units sold by end of 2009.

"Consumer adoption of mobile computing and Atom-based netbooks is growing rapidly, and there is an immediate opportunity for developers to capitalize on the popularity of these small form-factor, on-the-go devices," said Renee James, corporate vice president and general manager, Intel Software and Services Group. "We are excited about the innovation and energy from developers around creating applications and unlocking new uses for Atom platforms."

The Beta version of the SDK is now available for both Microsoft* Windows (C and C++) and Moblin (C) operating systems. With the Beta SDK, developers can submit their applications for validation and, once validated, begin to take advantage of the program's revenue-generating opportunities in 2010. Intel is offering incentives for developers to begin submitting applications by offering a chance to win big prizes including a smart car or vacation package.

Developers can download the beta version of the SDK today and learn more about the program, application programming interfaces (APIs), validation process, application store framework and developer contests at appdeveloper.intel.com.