Verizon Wireless to open app development center

In an effort to foster development of more mobile applications designed for its networks, Verizon Wireless has announced plans to open a new Application Innovation Center in San Francisco later this year.

The facility is described by the company as a place where developers, network engineers and mobile industry entrepreneurs can collaborate on applications designed for 3G and 4G LTE networks, which is what Verizon Wireless operates. The mobile provider already operates an LTE Innovation Center in Waltham, Mass., and the two facilities are designed to be complementary.

The new facility should be a valuable resource for developers that use it, comprised of collaboration and private development labs and offering access to Verizon Wireless network gear to test and tinker with apps in a live network environment. The AIC, as the company is calling it, will also give mobile app developers the opportunity to consult with Verizon Wireless experts in app development, software development, network APIs, network performance and business development.

The facility will be located in downtown San Francisco, on Spear Street. Construction is already under way, the company said.