Why BerryStore?

Just like you, we build BlackBerry applications and want to see our creations in the hands of as many users as possible. BerryStore was built to make it easier for regular BlackBerry owners to find, install, and review your applications.

How do I list an application?

If you're already providing over-the-air downloads of your application today, it's easy to get started with BerryStore. Each app listed in the BerryStore is defined and managed by an appcast. An appcast is an XML file that describes the application and the JAD and COD files that are needed to install it. Listing a new app is simple: create the appcast XML file, store it on a web server, and submit its URL to us.

Is there an approval process?

There is a one-time approval procedure all apps must go through before they appear in the global application listing. Any and all apps will be approved so long as the app correctly downloads and installs, doesn't contain any offensive or adult content, and doesn't harm someone's phone. Once approved, developers are free to make updates to their listing or publish new versions as often as they like. Send an email to developers@berrystore.com with your app name for approval.

Can I charge for my application?

The initial release of BerryStore will only support free applications or free trials that manage their own expiration and billing. Allowing developers to charge for applications is something we're working on.

We are here to help...

If you have any problem listing your application, let us know and we'll work through it together. You can reach us at developers@berrystore.com.

» Step 1: Create a BerryStore appcast...

Your app's listing in the BerryStore is generated from a BerryStore appcast which you maintain. The appcast tells the BerryStore everything it needs to know: your app's name, the developer's name, how it's categorized, a description of what the app does, and the JAD file (or files) that are used to download your app.

Simple Example

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<berrystore>
  <app>  
    <name>Hello World</name>
    <developer>Acme, Inc.</developer>
    <maintainerEmail>bob@acme.com</maintainerEmail>
    <category>Utilities</category>

    <release>
      <public>no</public>
      <password>secret</password>
      <price>FREE</price>
      <version>1.0.0</version>
      <notes>This app just shows HelloWorld</notes>
      <date>Sun, 31 Aug 2008 18:13:00 -0800</date>
      <build jad="http://acme.com/hello.jad" />
    </release>
  </app>
</berrystore>

The easiest way to start is to download a skeleton appcast and customize it to suit your needs.

» Step 2: Upload your appcast to the web...

You can host your appcast wherever you like - it doesn't have to be in the same directory or even on the same domain as your application's JAD and COD files. What's important is that you pick a URL that will be stable over time and over multiple releases of your app. If you need to change the appcast URL at a later date, you'll need to contact us.

» Step 3: Start in test mode...

Before you submit your app for the first time, make sure it is in non-public, test mode. This will allow to view your application in the store exactly as users would without making it public. See how to test for more information about how to test your listing after you have submitted it.

» Step 4: Submit your appcast...

Once your appcast is ready, you will need to submit it it to the BerryStore. Your changes will be instantly reflected in the store. To make modifications, just submit the same URL again and the changes will be applied.