The Mac App Store went live last week. To check it out, you need to update your Apple system software. Then you can access the App Store either from the Dock (there will be a new icon, an A in a blue circle) or there’s an App Store menu item under the Apple menu.
Here is the roundup of some of the internet pundits’ first musings and early opinions about the Mac App Store.
The Unofficial Apple Weblog: “The Mac App Store has a number of nice features that aren’t immediately obvious.” “There were a number of apps we’d hoped to see that were missing.” “Price points falling into two broad ranges, with a lot of sub-$5 programs.”
Mashable: “Apple has done an amazing job ensuring that the store feels boundless.” “Apple’s new Mac App Store could also drive the average market price for Mac applications downward.”
Lifehacker–the good review: “The obvious upside of the Mac App Store is the convenience it brings.”
Lifehacker–the bad review: “What I really fear, though, that the store will have repercussions on us that don’t even use it—how many developers do you think are going to code two versions of their apps, just to keep us old-fashioned users reaping the benefits of an free market?”
Ars Technica: “The discovery potential is huge, while simultaneously offering a much more organized experience than surfing the Web looking for software.”
Barkings, the Small Dog Apple Blog: “Though we’ve only had a short time to play around in the store, initial impressions are good.”