Whenever new technology reportedly meets the iTunes store, it's prudent to check Apple's online storebag protocol to see what's what. Today, I downloaded the latest storeBag.xml from Apple's public iTunes server. What I found was this:

There appears to be a new service, labeled "p2-panda" that offers access to the same functionality that Cory reported on last night. Specifically, the panda calls include StoreFront listings, Genres, Top Fifty listings, and Updates. If nothing else, this independently confirms functionality seen from those screen shots.

At this time none of the calls appeared to function--whether from a Mac or from an iPhone--but I do not have access to the AppStore software itself, only to the protocols and web browsers. I'll try testing periodically in case the services pop back online.

Update: p2 likely refers to Purple 2, the iPhone code name. (Thanks Ryan)

Update 2: iPhone developer asap18 reports that the AppStore allows users to search for iTunes music as well as applications. This leads him to believe that AppStore extends the core iTMS functionality on the iPhone.

One of our readers sent us in some screenshots of his iPhone showing what appears to be the anticipated iTunes AppStore. Could these pictures be the AppStore, or could it be some type of hack? It definitely looks legit to us! He says that after opening and closing the AppStore a couple of times and getting an "iTunes connection" error, it finally loaded some random AppStore pages.

We also got word from modmyifone.com that they got the same tip we did and are featuring the screenshots as well. That's two votes for legitimacy...



Thanks Aaron

Today, Steve Jobs announced the App Store to go along with all of the SDK fun that's soon to begin. Available in the iPhone 2.0 software update, the App Store will allow for easy navigation of both paid and free apps; Featured, Just Added, Staff Favorites, Most Popular ... it's basically an iPhone version of Apple Downloads. You'll be able to search, tap and download applications wirelessly to your iPhone (and iPod touch for a nominal fee) via WiFi or cellular. You'll also be able to install apps via iTunes.

Developers will be able to sell their apps in the App Store, and can set their own price. They'll receive a monthly payment of 70% of sales, with 30% going to Apple for their credit card, hosting and marketing services. There are no additional costs for listing apps, after the $99 setup fee.

Quite predictably excluded from listing in the App Store are pornography and malicious applications. I have absolutely no witty comment to make about that. It's common sense.