We are just a few months away from Windows Phone 7 launching. It is key the operating system and hardware perform well, but today, having only that doesn't mean much. Third party apps are at least as important, if not more so, than the core phone itself. If only 10 percent of those that have downloaded the developer kit write an app, Microsoft's mobile OS will have a decent application library in no time.Microsoft's Windows Phone Developer blog is claiming that over 300,000 people have downloaded the Windows Phone Developer Tools. Microsoft has had an off-again/on-again relationship with free development tools for mobile developers over the years. Given the uphill battle the company faces against RIM, Apple and Google, they need every advantage they can get. Say what you want about Microsoft, they make great development tools.

Microsoft expects to release the final version of the tools on September 16, so if you are a developer you'll want to grab that to ensure your app works with the non-beta build of the software.

Microsoft has been doing a number of things to spur development of applications. They have paid developers of key apps to port their iPhone or Android app to Windows Phone. In other cases, they are working with developers to ensure their software will work with the phone. Companies that they have helped out include ebay, Flixter, Esurance, Trip Mate, Realtor.com and the Associated Press.

If you aren't developing for Windows Phone yet and would like to get started, head over to the blog. They have links to the software, information on getting your app in the Marketplace and links to courses to help you get going. They also have a link to the Windows Phone Marketplace policies that give very clear rule about application certification so you know exactly what will and won't be allowed.

Click to see "Slideshow: Microsoft's Windows Phone 7 Revealed."