Sony Ericsson issues SDK for Windows Xperia

Sony Ericsson has launched an SDK for its first Windows Mobile device, the forthcoming Xperia X1.

The beta software development kit enables programmers to build and test Xperia Panels and other apps for the device which runs Windows Mobile 6.1. Sony Ericsson describes the Panels as 'lightweight apps' which enable users to customise the X1's user interface.

Sony Ericsson said Panels support HTML and Microsoft's Visual Studio development environment. Developers will be able to test their efforts directly on their PC, rather than having to have use phone hardware.

The company added it will be creating a dedicated category for Panels in its content competition this year - presumably in the hopes of drumming up developer interest in the X1.

The X1 - its first Windows Mobile device - was shown off earlier this year at the Mobile World Congress trade show, with a mooted launch date of the second half of this year.

The mobile maker recently denied rumours the X1's launch would be delayed. A spokesman told silicon.com a launch date would be announced next week but added that Sony Ericsson online shop states the handset will ship in October.

Speaking to silicon.com recently, Gavin Byrne, research analyst at Informa Telecoms & Media, said mobile companies are involved in "a land grab for the application developers' mindshare".

Sony Ericsson is not alone in serenading app makers. Last month Google released an SDK for its upcoming Android mobile OS and has been showering cash on developers - in the form of app competition prizes.

Meanwhile Apple CEO Steve Jobs recently revealed the company raked in $30m in sales of iPhone apps in the first month it opened its doors - a mere cut of what its developers have turned over in app sales.