Windows 8 SDK Preview Program Available For Sign-Up, Not Widely Available

If you’re a developer and want to get into the SDK preview program for Windows 8 you can now sign up. Entry isn’t guaranteed and Microsoft says the limited availability is due to yet-to-be-announced Windows 8 features.

Developers can sign up to the Windows 8 SDK preview program now, Microsoft announced recently

Windows 8’s release date continues to approach and Microsoft is courting developers to adopt Metro UI and Windows, an issue it probably didn’t anticipate. The company announced in a blog post that it is opening sign-ups to the software development kit (SDK) preview for developers.

You can gain access by visiting the Microsoft connect website (source link below) and fill in an application. Developers need a Developer ID, Product ID, and your local Phone Camp. An app is available to search for local Phone Champs if you have no idea what Microsoft is talking about. Applications run until 5PM pacific time on September 17, 2012; successful applicants will hear within the week.

Microsoft simply reason the limited access due to yet-to-be-announced Windows 8 features and the SDK including emulators that allow developers to test apps against Windows Phone feature. Confusingly Microsoft said it wanted to generate excitement for Windows 8. This move seems counterproductive to attracting new customers, as Microsoft said.

Despite Doom And Gloom, There’s Nothing To Worry About

The reaction in the user comments was negative — the post currently holds a two-of-five-stars rating. If developers are already turning away from Windows 8 due to seemingly unnecessary policies then it isn’t a good sign. Of course, we’re in early days. Pre-release days, actually.

Wider access may arrive later in the week: Microsoft teased more SDK news in the coming weeks. Like the limited availability for the release candidate we’re hoping Microsoft allows more developers on board. We’re not quite sure why it didn’t allow full access for developers; it’s quite possible the extra effort will turn some away. I’ve spoken before about Microsoft removing barriers for developers.

It’ll be interesting to see how developers approach Windows 8. Personally I don’t think developers will boycott the operating system as some critics are predicting. Ultimately this is Windows, the world’s most popular operating system. Do you really think it will fail?

Windows 8 launches October 26.