Facebook launches US App Store

Facebook has launched an app store in the US, similar to that for the Apple iPhone, in a bid to turn the social network into a key entertainment platform online.

The network announced its “App Centre” in a blogpost yesterday, confirming its first major move into a booming market of gaming, lifestyle and productivity applications.

The app store will be available only to US users from today, opening to each of Facebook’s 901 million users in the coming weeks. It will feature 600 applications, including the popular Draw Something and Pinterest, and new games such as Jetpack Joyride and Ghosts of Mistwood.

According to Facebook’s Matt Wyndowne, “The App Centre gives you personalised recommendations, and lets you browse the apps your friends use. It only lists high-quality apps, based on feedback from people who use the app.”

The app store will be available on Facebook’s iOS and Android apps, as well as on the main website. Users can send an app on the website to be downloaded onto their mobile device.