Vodafone (like other carriers) refuses to be turned into a dumb pipe. They want to control the user experience and make additional money out of it. On that note, we bring you this story which involves the Big Red and their plans to launch a special version of the Android Market called “Android App Shop.”
The carrier reportedly plans to introduce the new store as part of its Vodafone 360 experience and launch it in select European markets where it operates. Initially, the Android App Shop should be available in the UK, The Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Spain; and I assume the plan is to keep expanding afterwards.
Germany’s Arvato mobile will be responsible for managing the store, and at the moment they are inviting developers to submit their non-adult apps.
Vodafone wants the same 30% cut Google and Apple are taking. It will allow users to be charged through their phone bills…
[Via: PocketGamer.co.uk]