Microsoft has been trying its level best to establish its Windows Phone OS and eat into the share of other ecosystems like Android and iOS, which currently monopolize the market. In a bid to make its ecosystem a force to be reckoned with by increasing its app offerings, Microsoft has launched a new contest called "Next App Star," which specifically targets Windows Phone developers.

Microsoft currently has 150,000 apps on offer at its app store, which is not much when compared to those stocked by Android and iOS.

The "Next App Star" contest from the Redmond-based company is seeking out new developers who specialize in Windows Phone apps, a move which would help Microsoft push its Windows Phone OS further.

"To help your apps get more visibility with more customers, today we are launching a new contest with a very special top prize - featured placement of your app in a Windows Phone prime-time TV ad in the U.S.," notes the official Microsoft blog. 

The contest is open to registered Windows Phone developers worldwide. Participation is easy and registered developers need to visit the Dev Center to "opt-in." The last date of entering is March 5, 2013 and the app should be published by this deadline.  If the developer makes the cut via public voting, he/she would make it to the 64 finalists.

"Over the next several weeks of voting the field of 64 will be narrowed to 32, 16, 8, 4, 2, and finally the grand prize winner. There will be prizes along the way to encourage people to participate (more on that later) and ways for you to promote your app and gain new fans," noted Microsoft.

Additionally, the developers of the 64 apps that get selected will stand a chance to win "thousands of dollars in prizes, including a Nokia Lumia 920 Windows Phone and a one-year free Dev Center subscription."

The last app that remains, will be declared the winner of the "Next App Star" contest and will get featured in a TV advert for Microsoft's Windows Phone.

If you're a registered Windows Phone developer and are keen on participating, head to the Dev Center to register.