Mobile platform Tizen throws $4-million app challenge to developers

With most smartphones running either iOS or Android, a relative newcomer is trying to spur interest by enticing developers to create apps for it—to the tune of $4 million.

 

Proponents of the open-source operating system Tizen launched the Tizen App Challenge to have developers build programs that showcase Tizen's features.

 

Tizen, which released Tizen 2.2 Beta recently, has big-name backers in the mobile industry, including Samsung and Intel.

 

"With over $4M in cash prizes, there's never been a better time to create or port that awesome app for Tizen. Enter the Tizen App Challenge, and compete for one of 54 prizes among nine categories. The best entries will be selected by a panel of judges. In addition, the top 10 ranked HTML5 apps will be eligible for an additional $50,000 prize!" it said.

 

Also, Tizen offered a "brand new ecosystem, with a brand new store," with early developers getting a head start on the "next big application ecosystem."

 

A separate article on The Next Web said the initiative particularly aims to engage developers in China, the world’s largest smartphone market, and South Korea.

 

"Tizen says, 'Getting developers on board to create compelling apps and content is a crucial part of building a smartphone experience that appeals to consumers, and that virtuous circle is crucial to snaring more developers'," it said.

 

The Next Web said interested developers have until November 1 to enter their apps.

 

But it added Tizen will "need to show significant traction, if it is to become part of the discussion—but $4 million in prizes will at least attract the first set of developers." — VC, GMA News