Microsoft's Todd Brix has clarified some confusion over the launch of Windows Marketplace for Mobile, the app store launching Oct. 6 with Windows Mobile 6.5. While Microsoft has previously said that the Marketplace would be available for Windows Mobile 6.0/6.1 phones, though not immediately at launch, Brix has nailed down the schedule for us.

As we’ve been discussing since July, our plan is to deliver the full Marketplace experience in two phases. First, we’ll launch Windows Marketplace for Mobile with Windows phones on October 6th. We’ve also discussed following this launch with an update that will include support for Windows Mobile 6 and 6.1 by the end of the year. More specifically, we’re targeting November for phase two.

So, it's coming to older phones, just not until November. But, wait, there's more.

In addition, this second phase will bring the PC based catalog and shopping experience, user generated app reviews, advanced key-based anti-piracy protection and other enhancements that expand your business opportunity and make it easier for a larger number of customers to find and buy your application.

So there you go. A big segment of the Windows Mobile population will have to wait a month or so.