Microsoft launches Windows 7 developer contest

Microsoft is challenging developers to write an "amazing Windows 7 application" in exchange for a trip to LA for PDC09, and up to $17,777 in cash.

Code7 is a special coding contest for developers. "It is a way for you to cash in on your knowledge and skills" said Yochay Kiriaty, Windows 7 Technical Evangelist, in a Windows Blog team post.

To enter:

Build an original, consumer-oriented client application prototype that runs natively on Windows 7 (for example Win32, WPF, MFC or WinForms – not an Air application or just a gadget) and addresses one or more of the following topic categories:

• Simplify My Life
• More Media, More Places
• Gaming
• Work From Anywhere
• Safeguard Your Work
• Applications for a Better Tomorrow

The application must use at least one of the following Windows 7 technology features; however, judging will give more weight to entries that take advantage of more than one of these features:

• Libraries
• Windows Touch
• Shell Integration
• DX11 (DirectX 11)
• Sensor and Location Platform

The contest starts now and ends at 11:59 p.m. PT on October 10, 2009. In order to enter you must create and submit a video in which you describe and demonstrate your application.

For the complete contest rules please visit the rules section on the Code7 Contest Web site - https://www.code7contest.com/.