Palm extends a hand to developers
Published: 23 Oct 2001 14:33 BST
Palm announced on Tuesday that it is bolstering relations with its third-party software developers by initiating several new developer programmes.
The move comes just weeks after handheld makers that use Microsoft's competing Pocket PC operating system introduced powerful new models backed by a growing number of third-party software developers. After years of dominating the handheld market, analysts say, Palm is starting to see its lead being chipped away by Microsoft OS-based devices.
To stem the assault on its market share, Palm wants to mobilise its software developers to counter the image that Microsoft's Pocket PC-based systems provide more powerful business software applications. Handspring, which licenses Palm's OS, is also making a push to enter the corporate market.
In the effort to strengthen its third-party applications, Palm introduced a two-level programme. The advantage plan recognises and rewards more advanced developers with benefits such as direct technical support, a quarterly resource CD that contains the latest development tools and technologies, and help with marketing. The basic plan gives developers core services such as software development kits, product images, and limited access to source code, documentation, and access to prerelease tools and information.
Palm also introduced a certified programme that bestows professional developer credentials to those who pass an exam covering a range of programming skills.
"Developers who pass this exam will comprise an elite group of exceptional talent," said Gabriel Acosta-Lopez, senior director of Platform Developer Services.
The handheld maker will also offer an online training programme as part of its effort to continue attracting new developers for the Palm OS platform.
Earlier this month, Palm rescheduled its PalmSource conference, which now is set to take place in February in San Jose, California. The fifth annual US developers conference was originally set for October, but Palm postponed the event following the terror attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
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