Windows Phone Thoughts: Microsoft Announces Developments In the Marketplace, Windows Live, and Windows Mobile 6.5

Microsoft is at CTIA this week to make a slew of announcements related to the Marketplace, Windows Live, and Windows Mobile 6.5. Expect all the details during Robbie Bach's keynote; however, if you simply can't wait, jump the break and we'll feed you some preliminary information as well as a few screenshots.

Marketplace Support

More than twenty-five ISVs will announce support for the Marketplace. They include 3deep by LiteScape, Accuweather, AP Mobile, CNBC, Developer One, EA Mobile, Facebook, Gameloft, Glu Mobile, Handmark, Ilium Software, Jeyo Inc., Kinoma, Magmic, Melodis Corp., MySpace, Namco Networks, Pandora, PhatWare Corp., Resco, SBSH Mobile, ShoZu, Inc., Sling Media, Spb Software, Web Information Solutions, and Zagat Survey.

As you can tell, there are some popular applications from some prominent developers in that list. Facebook is one of them. The application, which will be made available as a free download later this month, will allow you to capture and upload video from your phone to your wall.

Marketplace Policies

Microsoft has taken in a considerable amount of feedback, and amended its Marketplace policies so that developers will be free to submit application updates throughout the application's lifecycle at no extra cost. Customers will be able to purchase applications with a credit card, or have the costs appear directly on their phone bill. Additionally, customers will be able to return an application within 24 hours after the purchase for a full refund.