AT&T is challenging mobile app developers in New England to create the Next Great Application. Fast-Pitch New England is the first local version of the carrier's app dev competition and is designed to promote the high-tech community throughout the New England region.

The grand prize winner of what AT&T refers to as "a high-tech version of 'American Idol,'" will get $10,000 in cash plus have the application promoted in all AT&T-owned stores in New England, a slot on the AT&T devCentral Web site and promotional placement on the att.com/choice site. The winning application will also be fast-tracked for distribution consideration on one of the company's mobile download portals.

Previous national versions of the Fast-Pitch program have resulted in such apps as Ascendo Fitness, My Local TV News Over Wireless and Mobile Comic Books by uclick.

The contest runs through September 30. Rules, regulations and other info: http://clients.write-image.com/fastpitch.

(Image credit: Jupiterimages Unlimited)