Microsoft to launch Windows App Store

The next Windows PC operating system will include its own App Store, Microsoft has announced.

The company hasn’t detailed anything relating to strategy but did confirm that it has assembled an App Store team as it continues to build its new OS, scheduled for release in 2012.

Microsoft has already ventured into the digital content delivery platforms, with its Xbox Live service positioned at the centre of its games empire.

Apple, which has been the trailblazer for digital mobile content, introduced an App Store for Macs last year.