Windows Phone Marketplace Web Store, The Latest Microsoft Family Member

Microsoft is pushing hard to catch up their mobile (smart phone) universe with the likes of the "big boys" -- namely Google's Android and Apple's iPhone. Their latest edition to the family is a big step in the right direction: Windows Phone Marketplace Web Store. Microsoft’s web-based Windows Phone Marketplace went live today--years after their competitors' stores.

Along with the launch of the Windows Mobile App Store, the company is cautiously rolling out it's mobile OS update: version 7.5. Their cautiousness stems from a concern for issues with the most recent update--they need it to go smoothly. But, Windows Mobile users should be eager to experience the new update, which comes packed with 500 updates and features to the Windows Phone 7 platform.

As for the App store, it's launch kicks off with over 30,000 apps, which is a good start--even though it is far fewer than the competitors. Users can browse featured, free, top or new apps through an organizational structure of 16 top level categories. Also, games are very much part of the universe, but categorized separately from the other apps.

The first updates will roll out to Samsung Focus, Dell Venue Pro or other Windows Phone 7 owners.