Hewlett-Packard has come out with a beta version of an online store for software downloads which will appeal to netbook users. The so-called HP Download Store allows applications for Netbook to be downloaded and installed directly, without the need for a DVD-ROM drive. The prices are obviously slightly higher than elsewhere else, although HP is offering a discount of $20 on all orders of $50 or more.
The HP download store has purchased 200 programs, including productivity applications and games. All downloaded items can be loaded again after purchase for two years without further payment. In addition, HP offers the Download Store to offer a range of services including one-way Live Meeting product with which multiple users can simultaneously chat, operate phone, video conferencing or desktop sharing, this however is $13 per month.
The HP Download Store’s available programs include products from companies like Microsoft, Adobe, Symantec and Roxio, as well as games such as Star Trek Online and Avatar. In addition, there will be software titles that use the “special characteristics” of the HP Mini netbooks, which are probably leaner compared to normal notebooks desktops and lower power and smaller displays. To purchase from the HP Download Store seem possible only from the U.S., as upon check out the only available country in billing address is the United States. The HP Download Store obviously has nothing to do with Intel’s AppUp Store.
Via NetbookNews.de
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