The sales of mobile apps for smartphones and other platforms are booming. Apple was the first to launch successful App Store for its iPhone and has done exceptionally well in the market.

Apple recently announced that its App Store had racked up its one-billionth download since it launched. With staggering success, all other major phone makers decided to jump into the app business as well. Among the companies looking to launch application stores f their own is software giant Microsoft.

EWeek reports that Microsoft will be launching its Windows Marketplace for Mobile this fall. The number of apps expected at the debut of the store is 600. That sounds like a low number, but it really depends on the quality of the apps available. If half the apps are things that people will want, things will be fine. On the other hand, if most of the apps are junk that users see no need for the Marketplace for Mobile will come quickly under fire from users.

In an interview with MobilFrance, Audrey Zolghadr from Microsoft France said, "For the launch of Marketplace, 600 applications will be certified and available. It will be possible to retrieve the software from the search engine. Only software compatible with the screen resolution, touch, or not touch will be visible to the user. Customers can test the software since they will be sold with a satisfaction or your money back offer valid for 24 hours. The customer may choose to pay by credit card will be billed directly or by deduction from the invoice operator (as operators). Microsoft wants to make the smartphone more fun. We offer new games for free. We signed a partnership with EA Games and manufacturers can integrate such mobile Sim City and other surprises."

Analysts found that the average Pre user was much more likely to download an app than the average iPhone users. Windows Mobile users may prove to have a more download prone nature as well, only time will tell. The Marketplace for Mobile will also allow users to get a refund on apps that they don’t like within 24 hours.