US operator Verizon Wireless is working to improve its apps store with the introduction of a separate business-focused app store and by implementing better search for Android smartphones.

The company’s redesigned mobile app storefront – previously VCast and now called Verizon Apps – is due to be previewed at the Verizon Developer Community Conference this week.

The Private Applications Store for Business – also launched at the conference – is intended to help businesses securely manage and distribute mobile apps and content.

According to Verizon Wireless, the business service will be customisable so only apps approved by the company are accessible. The store will host third party applications as well as those developed in-house, which can be accessed by employees or business partners regardless of OS or devices.

If deployed across entire businesses Verizon Wireless says the service will boost cost efficiency and productivity. More details are due in the next few weeks.

Verizon Wireless has also announced it’s working with search specialist Chomp to improve the search functionality on Verizon Apps for Android smartphone users.

From the autumn, the Chomp app search engine will power all searches for Android apps in Verizon Apps, allowing users to search according to the function of the app as well as its name. Potential search terms could therefore be ‘expense tracker’ or ‘kid’s game’.

A Verizon Wireless executive recently admitted VCast has been slow in terms of apps becoming available and for users to use. News of Verizon's plans to revamp the service was reported last month when Verizon’s Kyle Malady told IDG that the company was aiming to launch a new version of its app store that was easier for developers to use.