Apple Launches New Mac App Store for Mac OS X Applications, Releases Mac OS X 10.6.6 Update

Today, as was expected, Apple unveiled their new initiative aimed at Mac OSX software developers and those wishing to purchase applications for their Macs in a way similar to iTunes and iOS apps. Dubbed the Mac App Store, it is part of the latest software release of Apple’s Mac OS X operating system which, when applied, brings Mac computers to version 10.6.6.

Here’s what Apple has to say about the update:

The Mac OS X 10.6.6 Update is recommended for all users running Mac OS X Snow Leopard and includes general operating system fixes that enhance the stability, compatibility, and security of your Mac. It also includes the Mac App Store, the best way to discover and buy new apps for your Mac. The Mac App Store, a new application you’ll find in the Dock, includes the following features:

• Discover Mac apps: Browse featured apps, top charts, and categories, or search for something specific. Read detailed app descriptions and user reviews, and flip through screen shots.
• Buy and install: Easily purchase apps with your iTunes account. Apps install in one step and are quickly available from the Dock.
• App updates: The Mac App Store keeps track of all your purchased apps and notifies you when free updates are available.

Among the apps being sold in the Mac App Store as of this morning are some made by Apple, including parts of the iLife and iWork suites and Aperture 3. These apps are available individually with prices ranging from $15 for iLife apps to $20 for iWork apps and $79 for Aperture.

The update is now available via Software Update so if you’re interested in this, fire up your Mac and get to updating. If you do, let us know your experiences in the comments.