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Apple targeting Dec. 13 launch of Mac App Store - rumor

A new rumor claims Apple plans to launch its upcoming Mac App Store for Snow Leopard ahead of schedule and in time for Christmas, on Monday, Dec. 13.

According to AppleTell, Apple told developers to have their applications ready for a launch as soon as today. A source told the site that Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs wanted to launch even sooner than today.

"That obviously didn't happen, but Apple appears to be way ahead of schedule on the Mac App Store nonetheless, and looks to take advantage of the Christmas rush," author Kirk Hiner wrote.

Last week, Apple issued its second beta of Mac OS X 10.6.6 with support for the forthcoming Mac App Store. Developers with the early build were reportedly told that the latest update to Snow Leopard "contains developer support for fetching and renewing App Store receipts."

The Mac App Store was announced in October, and Jobs said it would launch within 90 days. To meet that launch window, Apple has until late January.

Apple is rumored to hold a media event in the coming days to announce the ability to subscribe to publications on the iPad through an iTunes account. It's possible that Apple could also launch the Mac App Store at the apparent event.