HTC planning iTunes-like app store

HTC could be preparing to launch an app store to rival Apple‘s iTunes, according to an article in the Financial Times.

According to the report, the Taiwanese manufacturer is currently hiring content editors for the launch of their own app store, which is expected to sell e-books, magazines and applications. Rumour suggests there is going to be an initial team of editors in Taiwan, with plans to employ a further 100 people in other countries.

Although HTC are yet to comment, they have stated that the company is “growing very fast and are hiring for a variety of positions including marketers, developers, technical writers and many others. We are always exploring new areas we can add value to our customers but we can’t comment on our future plans.”

HTC Executive Peter Chou has also hinted that an app store could be on its way, stating that it was no longer enough for HTC to simply create their own Android skin: “It is not enough to be skin deep. We need to go bone deep.”

This news comes as the competition between Android and Windows Phone 7 devices heats up, suggesting that HTC could be launching their own app store in a ploy to differentiate themselves from the ever expanding range of copycat smartphones. The platform in which the store will be landing is not yet confirmed, although multiple sources believe that apps will be available to cater to both Microsoft and Google based handsets. If true, we could expect the app store to land on devices such as the Desire HD, Desire Z, 7 Mozart and HD7.

No specifics of the HTC’s upcoming app store have been mentioned, although a source close to the manufacturer has revealed that it’s likely to be linked to the development of the recently launched HTCSense.com.

[Source: Financial Times]