Intel Corporation has launched a beta version of its app store -- the Intel AppUp center -- for netbook computers. The first apps are now available for free download or purchase by visiting www.intelappup.com.
Four other Intel industry partners – Acer, Asus, Dell and Samsung - also announced store collaboration and plans.

The first apps now available cover education, entertainment, games, health, social networking and other categories. A sampling includes Arnold Palmer Golf, Boxee, Wikihow and Yoono.

The beta store will host applications for both the Microsoft Windows and the open source Moblin-based operating systems, the first operating systems to target the popular netbook computer category powered by the Intel Atom processor.

Over time, Intel and its partners expect to expand the stores to include applications for the large categories of handheld CE devices, smartphones, consumer electronic appliances, TVs and other devices based on future Intel processor families.
In addition to the Windows and Moblin-based operating systems, the Intel AppUp center will offer applications that use Web browser run-time environments such as Adobe Air and Microsoft Silverlight in the future.

Partner stores access the developer and store services the Intel AppUp center offers, including validating and categorizing apps and utilizing a common transaction infrastructure to administer purchases and downloads for these tailored stores. OEMs Acer, Asus, Dell and Samsung are working closely with Intel on their stores.