Microsoft plans to launch a marketplace to sell mobile phone software running on its Windows Mobile platform, closely following the setup of Apple's App Store for iPhones.

Last year, Apple started what has amounted to an "app store" arms race by giving software developers a single place to sell applications to enthusiastic iPhone owners. Its overnight success has prompted Google to launch a similar one-stop shop for its Android phone platform.

Microsoft, Nokia and Research in Motion have announced similar intentions recently.

Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft, like Apple in its App Store, plans to take 30 percent of sales from its Windows Marketplace for Mobile. Programmers who want to sell applications through the Microsoft store must pay $99 a year for the privilege, the same fee Apple charges. Developers can set their own prices, starting at 99 cents, or give their programs away.

Microsoft said it will certify each application to make sure they work properly.

Developers have complained that Apple is too secretive about its App Store, saying that it takes weeks or more for the company to approve or reject their submissions and that reasons for rejections are murky or inconsistent.

Microsoft said it will be more forthright and responsive than Apple has been in the past.

Software makers will be able to log on to a Microsoft site to see where programs stand during the submission process and review sales figures for approved applications.

"The rules will be very objective," said Inigo Lopez, a senior product manager for Windows Marketplace for Mobile.

Microsoft said developers will be able to start submitting their applications starting this summer. Once the store is up and running, available in 29 countries at launch, Windows Mobile users will be able to buy programs through an application on their handset or from the web.

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