Verizon to close Verizon Apps in January 2013
updated 02:59 pm EST, Mon November 5, 2012
App store will be pulled from compatible devices by March
Verizon announced today that it would be shutting down its Verizon App Store in January of next year. The carrier cited "a whole new tech landscape" as a reason behind its decision to "evolve" its strategy and simplify the app acquisition process. Verizon expects to begin the process of removing the Verizon Apps application from all compatible Android and Research In Motion devices, with the move scheduled for completion by March 27, 2013.
Developers with apps in Verizon's marketplace will, according to the carrier, still have access to app metrics and reporting, and they will continue to receive payments while the shutdown client is being deployed. Also, business applications submitted to Verizon's Private Applications Store for Business will continue to be available for purchase and download for enterprise customers.
Apps requiring a monthly license check will no longer work after the Verizon Apps client is removed, so those apps are being removed from the Verizon App Store this month in order to head off further downloads. This will include apps with subscription models, in-app purchases, and usage-=based models. Also, the App Store will no longer be accepting new app submissions.
Verizon notes that its decision likely will not have a profound impact on most apps, as the majority of titles available in Verizon's app repository are also available on Google Play, Amazon, and BlackBerry App World.
