Microsoft courting developers 'big and small' for Windows Phone 7

Microsoft's efforts to ensure a strong start for its Windows Phone 7 OS continue, with senior director Todd Brix confirming that app developers are being offered financial incentives to support the platform.
According to Business Week, Brix confirmed that those incentives may include free tools and test handsets, but also funds for software development and marketing, with revenue guarantees if apps don't sell as well as expected.
"We are investing a lot to attract developers big and small to Windows Phone 7 to let them understand what the opportunity is and provide as many resources as we can to help them be successful on our platform," he says.
The interview confirms rumours that have been bubbling in the app developer community for some time now about Microsoft's calculated pursuit of successful iPhone developers in particular.
These developers could be forgiven for taking a wait-and-see approach to Windows Phone 7, which will launch with its first smartphones later this year.

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