The App Store by Apple has been a huge success. There are more than 50,000 applications in the App store

and there are thousands lined up for approval. Considering the migration of most Internet users to the mobile phone App developers may be looking at one of the biggest untapped markets.

Ericsson has announced the launch of a hosted app store that will target mobile operators. This App store will be able to launch apps for a variety of mobile handsets and gadgets. Presently the Apple store can be used for applications only for the iPhone and the iPods. Ericsson plans to reach entry level phones as well.

Ericsson is confident of managing the infrastructure for the app store including the billing as well as the setting up a developer community for its applications. The setting up of App Stores has considerable benefits for the developer community as well.

Vodafone is a classic example that has implemented its own solution for users to browse and download software. The apps have the potential for making the handsets more attractive to consumers and boosting the revenues of the carrier companies.