SMS GupShup, Asia’s 25 million user-strong mobile social network, launched an app store called AppShup to promote and distribute SMS applications.
Here’s how it works (their words):
The system requires developers to have only a basic knowledge of any programming language, understanding of web applications and familiarity with JSON and XML. Developers can use the AppShup API Platform to create and connect their apps to other websites and blogs as well as modify their GupShup stream through the program. The GupShup Apps platform lets developers make small SMS applications and widgets which help users communicate to systems with SMS. Developers are encouraged to make simple, interactive applications which are easy to use, solve a business need, or are just fun to play.
The system is completely open for developers, and right from the start there are close to 100 SMS apps to choose from, including movie, astrology and dictionary applications (complete list is available from here).
AppShup is integrated with the Indian carriers and the plan is to expand to other countries.
The way I see it, this kind of app store is ideal for emerging markets like India, where most users don’t have smartphones to run more powerful apps. Moreover, it could find its way to some prepaid carriers in the Western world, which users typically grab entry-level handsets. We’ll certainly watch the whole app store market and keep you folks in the loop…