Sun makes changes to its Java app shopfront

Sun has launched an updated beta release of Java Store, a storefront for discovering and acquiring Java and JavaFX applications.

"This release includes a number of new features such as: Account creation in the client, the ability for developers outside of the US to preview applications using the Java Store view, improved integration with PayPal and numerous smaller features, performance enhancements and bug fixes," said Sun representative Jacki DeCoster in a blog post.

Social networking, games, productivity tools, and business applications comprise some of what is downloadable from the store. Features of the store include a "Preview" capability for testing applications before deciding whether to buy.

There is no time set yet on general availability of Java Store.

Sun had launched a beta release of the store in June, billing it as a website where developers can connect with computer users who run Java on their desktop. It is similar to the Apple's App Store. The company also at the time touted a developer portal, Java Warehouse, to serve as the central repository for Java and JavaFX applications, which could then be distributed via Java Store. 

With this latest release, Java Warehouse is being opened up to six new countries: Israel, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Taiwan, and South Korea.