Built For BlackBerry Program Receives Some Changes

Built for BlackBerry

Built for BlackBerry is an almost prestigious designation of sorts for BlackBerry 10 apps on BlackBerry World – it means that the app has met the high standards set out for high-quality apps by BlackBerry. But some developers have seen the standards as almost a little too high, with relatively few apps receiving the designation. Luckily for these developers, Alec Saunders announced today that the program has received some revisions based on their feedback.

The first change to the program relates to single-function apps. Previously, a number of applications were denied for the sole reason of being single-function, but now BlackBerry will be revisiting these apps. However, any apps that are seen as too simple will still not qualify, and apps that were denied for multiple criteria will have to be revised and resubmitted by developers. Having to revisit these apps will extend the review process beyond March 4th, which is when the $10k Developer Commitment revenue period begins, but any apps that qualify for Built for BlackBerry after March 4th will have their revenue tracked back to March 4th.

Another change that has been made is the addition of an appeals process. Any developers who feel their app was unfairly denied the designation will now be able to appeal the decision with BlackBerry, provided they can present some valid reasons. Rejection emails are also going to be revised, in order to better explain to the developer exactly why their app was denied, and how it can be revised to qualify. To further help developers understand the criteria, BlackBerry plans to publish case studies on certain apps which have qualified for the Built for BlackBerry program. They hope this will help give developers pointers in the development of their own apps. Saunders makes it clear, however, that they don’t want to design the app for the developer, as they know their customers better than BlackBerry does.

Ultimately, it’s great to see BlackBerry continue to listen to app developers, as they will likely play an important role in the future of BlackBerry 10. Let’s hope we see some more high-quality, Built for BlackBerry apps launch in the near future!

Source: Inside BlackBerry Developer Blog