Microsoft to launch Windows Store with 80 per cent rev share

New PC-based app store will pay out the higher amount once an app earns $25k.

The unveiling of an download store for desktop devices – like Apple's recently launched Mac Store – indicates the cultural impact of the mobile app store concept and moves the death of boxed software a step closer.

Windows Store apps will start at $1.49, rather than the $0.99 typical of other app stores, and developers will be able to set their apps prices higher in intervals of $0.50 up to $4.99, although higher pricing tiers will also be available. Rev shares start at 70 per cent.

A freemium option is also available, within which developers can use their own in-app billing platforms without sharing data or revenue back to Microsoft.

The store is expected to launch in beta from February 2012 on an invitation-only basis. Microsoft gave a clue as to who might be in the initial line-up when it demoed Metro-style apps such as Evernote, eBay, Cut The Rope and digital books from Disney.

The firm is also planning a developer contest to find smaller firms to take part. No date for a wider launch yet.