The Pebble smartwatch is getting its own app store in early 2014.
The Pebble appstore, as its called in the blog post, has been a frequent request among Pebble users. It will integrate directly with the iOS and Android Pebble apps and act as a all-in-one repository for Pebble watchfaces and apps.
The Pebble appstore will launch alongside Pebble 2.0, which is currently in beta. Pebble 2.0 adds tons of new features for developers, most notably the ability for apps and watchfaces to pull in data from other sources across the web without necessarily needing a separate companion app running on the phone.
On its developer blog, Pebble outlines how developers can use the store. Submitting apps to the store is free and open to everyone. Developers will also be able to link to required companion iOS or Android apps alongside their watchface or Pebble app.
At this time, the Pebble appstore won't support paid apps but because developers can link out to their paid iOS or Android apps, that should mitigate most issues. Pebble also says that third-party directories such as MyPebbleFaces.com will continue to work for Pebble 2.0, and that it will not prevent or block installations from those types of sites.
Creating an integrated experience for finding and installing watchfaces and apps directly within the main Pebble app is a great move. We look forward to testing it out in the new year.