Microsoft has announced its strategy for empowering developers to create and monetize applications for the next generation of Windows phones.

In a March 11 announcement, Microsoft laid out new details about how developers can build and sell applications for Windows phones through Windows Marketplace for Mobile, the company's recently announced application marketplace available with the Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system.

As incentive for developers to build compelling applications for the Windows Mobile platform, Microsoft said it will provide developers with 70 percent of the sales revenue of their applications from Windows Marketplace for Mobile, transparency throughout the certification process, and guidance and support from the stage of development to the final sale to the consumer.

In addition, Microsoft said developers will be able to set the price for their applications in each market. Or developers can choose to distribute their applications at no cost. Up to five application submissions to Windows Marketplace for Mobile are included in the introductory annual registration fee of $99, and each additional submission within the annual period will cost $99. However, the registration fee is waived for student developers who want to reach Windows phones customers, through enrollment in the Microsoft DreamSpark program.

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