After some delay because of lawyers still finalizing the documentation for the competition, and Google’s engineers fixing bugs with the submission system, the Android Developer Challenge has finally opened for entries. The challenge will have a total prize of $10 million and already brought some new cool applications like the WiFi war. The first challenge will be accepting entries until March 3rd, will be giving 50% of the total jackpot with fifty winning entries getting a guaranteed $25,000 each and the possibility of supplementary awards- ten of $100,000 and ten of $275,000 - for lets say really good applications.

There were some concerns about who might retain the IP once the submission was completed since the terms and conditions lack this kind of information. Google came forward and released this note.

"As between Google and the Participant, the Participant retains ownership of all intellectual and industrial property rights in and to the Entry that Participant had before submission, including the right to distribute the application commercially at any time. As a condition of entry, Participant grants Google a perpetual, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free, and non-exclusive license to use, reproduce, publicly perform, publicly display and create a derivative work from, any Entry that Participant submits to this Challenge solely for the purposes of allowing Google to test and evaluate the Entry for purposes of the Challenge and to advertise, display, demonstrate, or otherwise promote the Android platform. Participant specifically agrees that Google shall have the right to use, reproduce, publicly perform, and publicly display the Entry in connection with the advertising and promotion of the Android platform via communication to the public or other groups, including, but not limited to the right to make screenshots, animations and video clips available for promotional purposes” Google Android Developer Challenge Terms & Conditions

Google will be judging applications on the following criteria:

1. Originality of Concept
   Does the application introduce a great new idea; for example, a new angle on social applications?
2. Effective Use of the Android Platform
   Does the application take advantage of Android’s unique and compelling features, such as built-in location-based services, accelerometer, and always-on networking?
3. Polish and Appeal
   Is the application easy to use and aesthetically appealing?
4. Indispensability
   Is the application compelling and essential, such as a game the user just can’t put down or a utility she can’t live without?

 I really want to see six months from now which applications will be released and which mobile phones will be carrying Android. So guys good luck and let the Challenge begins.

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