Skype lovers have a good news as Skype plans to come up with a new app directory which would help building the bridge for its consumers to the third party apps. Now a consumer will be able to access those apps which have been built on Skype’s API. Browsing these apps, one would find that the directory has many paid apps as well as free apps. Windows as well as Mac users will be able to download these apps.
The directory has a list of featured app, but one can always browse through the defined categories which are whiteboard sharing, desktop, call recording and business. There are options to perform a search even which are by app and developers’ names, platform, keyword cost and language.
Skype does not actually sell these apps directly. Skype members, when opt to download or but a specific app on this platform, they are directed to either app stores or developer websites form where the procedure is as per the third party’s terms and conditions.
Skype makes the detailing easy for its members as when an app is clicked, the member gets to view a noticeable description along with the screenshots, reviews and ratings for the app. There is more to notice, as Skype has an option for the members to share these apps on their emails and social networks.
This step taken up by Skype transforms it to a platform more than just an application. In fact, it has given a good option to its consumers so that they can get connected to Skype’s third party apps and at the same time a developer does not lose out on recognition. This even details that the developers can be versatile and they power Skype with their developments.
Talking about Skype, the app directory is quite similar to many other app stores which are already in the market. Developers have even welcomed the move. TechCrunch reported Jeremy Hague, VodBurner chief executive saying that a directory would make it really easy for them. He continued saying that as the Skype members have an option of rating and commenting on a specific app, it would be a new thing for developers in the Skype world. It would definitely help them developers in reaching out to the millions of members in the Skype community.
Skype’s action indicates that the company is showing interest in building their ecosystems which revolve around their own platforms. This move additionally encourages to develop better apps as they know that they would be given the required attention. Moreover, they get a well set platform to showcase their developments for the potential members of Skype.
This is not the first time, a known company has adopted this step. Evernote, last year, even had launched a showcase of those apps which were build with the help of Evernote’s API. They had called their platform ‘Trunk‘. This was however a defined step for becoming a productivity platform.
This shows that companies are preferring to let developers to use their API, so that they get the encouragement to develop desired apps with the help of a well set platform for them. On the other hand, it even serves a company help to move out of their line and expand their base.