Ready to shop? Well, Windows Marketplace–previously referred to as Skymarket–still hasn’t dropped yet, but the applications storefront for Windows Phone should be available with Windows Mobile 6.5. The MSDN Blog posted a few snippets about the new app store:

-An easily discovered on-device application that is installed on every Windows Mobile 6.5 device, and includes prominent placement on the Start menu.

-Global marketplace distribution (30 countries) with flexible payment options for end users through both credit card and mobile operator payment methods.

-Single source developer-focused web site for sign-up, publishing, and management of applications in the marketplace.

-Transparent set of policies that clearly articulate the types of applications allowed in the store.

-Streamlined, yet flexible workflow for getting applications published to the marketplace.

-Leverage existing Microsoft developer tools, such as Visual Studio, for faster time to market.

I wonder how Microsoft will truly add value to consumers through Windows Marketplace. I like Apple’s model–a basic DRM scheme that provides reasonable protection to developers so customers don’t have to enter serial numbers or unlock codes, the ability to re-download any purchase applications and updates that are pushed to the device. I know DRM is such a foul word, but should Microsoft implement a flexible DRM model to protect developers and make applications installation as easy as possible?