Raspberry Pi launches store for free, paid applications
updated 10:03 am EST, Mon December 17, 2012
Pi Store aims to make microcomputer easier to use
The Raspberry Pi micro computer now has its own app store. Called the Pi Store, the non-profit Raspberry Pi Foundation launched the service today, with the intention of making it "easier for developers of all ages to share their games, applications, tools and tutorials," and as a one-stop shop for those new to the Raspberry Pi to get going quickly.
Running as an X application under Raspbian, the Pi Store offers a total of 24 apps at launch, all but one of them at no charge, according to the official project blog. Development tools, an open-source Spotify client, the LibreOffice productivity suite, and PBX-service Asterisk are all available to download, alongside five games made to run on the system. While the system offers developers the choice between releasing their application for a charge or freely, the option to tip projects is also included in the store, allowing those that opt to release a free product a chance at earning something.
The Pi has had a fairly tremendous year since its launch, starting with higher than anticipated sales, being upgraded with double the RAM at no extra cost, and has the official camera being set for release in the near future. It reached fourth place on Time Magazine's Top 10 Gadgets of 2012, with writer Harry McCracken claiming the "exercise in inventive minimalism is inspiring."
