Open Signed would allows those developer with a Publisher ID to create developer certificates with support for up 1,000 IMEIs, thus making beta testing with large groups easier. For those without a Publisher ID a web only signing process will be available but with greater restrictions.
Express Signed looks to offer a solution to the high current cost of signing which can deter smaller developers and results in less frequent updates from developers.
The cost would be approximately one tenth ($20) of the current process (although this is open to change and is not confirmed). Application submitted in this way would be batch tested and the audit results published. Programs using restricted capabilities (COMMDD, MULTIMEDIADD, NETWORKCONTROL, DISKADMIN, DRM, ALLFILES, TCB) will not able to use Express Signed. Express Signed should be suitable for many current applications and should enable developers to release more frequent application update and more niche applications.
Certified Signed is similar to the current process. It may be required by certain distributors (e.g. to be sold in an operator store) and will be needed for applications that use restricted capabilities.
Symbian are actively seeking feedback on the new approach. Developers are requested to provide feedback in the Symbian Developer Network Forums.