RIM has announced that it has begun accepting submissions for apps developed for its upcoming BB10 operating system.

Following some lengthy delays the new platform is now expected to be launched in early 2013, with many commentators suggesting that the first devices will emerge in March.

As with previous versions of RIM’s OS, apps for the BB10 platform will be available through BlackBerry App World.

A number of big-name game publishers have already confirmed that they will be launching titles on the new operating system, including GameLoft, creator of the successful N.O.V.A series.

A statement on RIM’s website told software developers that: “This is a huge opportunity to be the first into the store and capitalize on app-hungry BlackBerry users.”

RIM has guaranteed that apps submitted now will be tested and ready for publishing by the time of its new platform’s launch. New apps could also qualify for the Canadian firm’s 10K development programme, which will see a $10,000 award going to the creator of any app which grosses at least $1000 in its first twelve months.

Several rumours have circulated about what the final BB10 software will look like and how its launch devices will perform. In the past few weeks details of a high-spec handset have emerged, suggesting a quad-core device with 2GB of RAM.

What appeared to be an internal RIM company video also found its way online, with a full touchscreen handset being show alongside a device with a more familiar BlackBerry design and physical QWERTY keypad.