Mobile operators are constantly asking if they should charge for exposing network level API’s. In a discussion just yesterday there was a strong sentiment for “YES” if they add real value…..I had to go back and remind them of a couple of things.
Does Facebook charge for accessing their API’s? Does Twitter? Does Java on the handset? Does Apple charge to access the Accelorometer api on the hanset? NO.
And by the way what is real value add? Don’t the developers application add real value to the network? Mobile Operators primary focus should be not to be disenfranchised in the value chain. API’s at the telecom operator has the strong potential to increase ARPU’s up to 36%

Currently there are some 15M software developers in the world. Of these there are a number of opportunities for them to developer their applications
1 Embedded
2. Enterprise
3. mobile
4. web (more…)

Singtel just announced their app store, sorry app zone http://asia.cnet.com/crave/2009/07/14/singtel-to-launch-its-own-app-store/

The twist Singtel is offering is is interesting and it’s always great to learn about another distribution for developers. However I miss some of the additional strategic elements for Singtel not to be disenfranchised and left out of the greater revenue pie.

In our experience linking an API story for application developers with a strong App store proposition will provide operators with a strong differentiator. Not only does this give developers access to network resources with a D2C offering but it is also something the device manufacturers can’t offer developers.

Furthermore when reading through the article I can’t help thinking about the commercial model which always come up in the developer communities when associated with the appstore. Developers, particularly in Asia, are very interested in the underlying commercial appeal. Again linking a developer community with to API’s and the appzone further enhances the “commercial appeal”.

Developers are heavily courted these days both across the web and on the mobile. Singtel clearly has a lot to offer developers across it’s Group of companies in addition to just the editorial input and elevating applications for local relevance and content. (more…)