Google will be running its Android Developer Challenge again this year, and will award developers up to $250,000 for winning applications.

The contest will begin in August and is open to any application that has not been published by the start date. There is a two-week window to submit applications, and the results will be announced in November.

"Cool apps that surprise and delight mobile users, built by developers like you, are a huge part of the Android vision," said the company in a statement.

"To support you in your efforts, Google launched the Android Developer Challenge, which will provide awards for great mobile apps built on the Android platform."

There are 10 application categories, with the top three in each winning $100,000, $50,000 and $25,000 respectively. In addition the top three of all the applications will received $150,000, $50,000 and $25,000, meaning that one developer will win a $250,000.

Unlike last year’s competition, part of the judging will be carried out by actual Android users. Anyone with an Android phone can sign up to be a judge, and the popular vote will count for 45 per cent of the final result. A panel of experts will account for the other 55 per cent.

The contest comes as Google is preparing for the mass release of Android handsets. As many as 20 could be on sale by the end of the year from nine manufacturers, according to Google.