"Windows 8 apps behave in the same way," says Verhoeff. "They all conform to Windows 8 interface features such as the Charms bar on the right side. You don't have the design freedom you have with iOS, but you can still build a unique experience with the Windows 8 style."
In addition to the clean and simple look of Windows 8, Microsoft is also looking to make development inexpensive. As opposed to the $99 per year to sign up with Apple as an iOS developer. Microsoft Visual Studio Express is free.
One OS, One Code, Many Windows 8 Devices
The ultimate promise of Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8 is seamless compatibility across multiple platforms. Apps will run on a PC, a tablet and a smartphone, allowing developers to reach an army of users. Such versatility will make Microsoft unique among its competitors.
Apple's iOS platform works only on iPads and iPhones and even then the code between an iPhone app and an iPad app can be different, and developers must make adjustments.
Windows 8 device compatibility may never be perfect, says Verhoeff, as the UI of Windows Phone 8 apps will be adjusted for the smaller screen. But developers will still be using the same Windows 8 code.
"If you do it right, you can develop one Windows 8 app for four different screens with the same code, and that is exciting," says Verhoeff.
Shane O'Neill is the Assistant Managing Editor for CIO.com. Follow Shane on Twitter @smoneill. Follow everything from CIO.com on Twitter @CIOonline and on Facebook. Email Shane at soneill@cio.com
Read more about mobile/wireless in CIO's Mobile/Wireless Drilldown.
