Apple is planning a January 6 opening for an online shop stocked with software applications that add entertaining or functional features to the firm’s Macintosh computers.

The Mac App Store will launch in 90 countries and offer free and paid mini-programs in categories including games, lifestyle, education and productivity, the iconic California company announced on Thursday.

“The App Store revolutionised mobile apps,” said Apple chief executive officer Steve Jobs, referring to the shop specialising in software programs for iPhones, iPads and iPod touch devices.

“We hope to do the same for PC (personal computer) apps with the Mac App Store by making finding and buying PC apps easy and fun.”

The shop will be available on Macintosh computers with Snow Leopard operating systems that will receive a free software update, according to Apple.

Developers will get to set the prices for applications and keep 70 per cent of the revenue, with the rest going to Apple.

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