To rival competitors like Apple and Google who are offering their own app stores, the Facebook App Store has been announced. Offering apps for pay, the store will feature similar apps and favorites of users such as Draw Something, Pinterest, Spotify and more, and it will also introduce mobile apps for Facebook users that go beyond the current Facebook platform being offered on smartphones.
The concept of "liking" on the store is being seen as hugely important to the success or failure of these Facebook apps. Allowing a more accessible approach to rating, the approval of Facebook users is determinative in what will be offered online. Facebook apps have been free throughout their history, but with this announcement a new wave of paid applications are being ushered in. A new experience is set to make way for both developers and users that are on Facebook.
Social Network Stores
The Facebook App Store is in the Works
Trend Themes
1. Paid Social Network Apps - The Facebook App Store is introducing paid applications, creating a new revenue stream for developers.
2. Integrated Mobile Experience - The Facebook App Store is expanding beyond the current platform by introducing mobile apps, providing users with a seamless experience across devices.
3. User-driven App Selection - The success of Facebook apps in the store is heavily influenced by user ratings, giving developers an opportunity to create apps that resonate with the Facebook community.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - The Facebook App Store is disrupting the app store industry by offering a new distribution platform for developers and app monetization opportunities.
2. Social Media - The introduction of paid apps and expanded mobile experience on the Facebook App Store has the potential to reshape the social media landscape.
3. Mobile Devices - The Facebook App Store's integration of mobile apps will drive innovation in the mobile device industry as developers strive to optimize their apps for the platform.