Method and a system for computer software distribution using networked software dispensing vending machines

A method for distributing software programs comprising:

• transmitting a plurality of software programs from a networked server computer to a remote software dispensing kiosk;
• storing said plurality of software programs on said software dispensing kiosk;
• in response to a user request, displaying a directory of said plurality of software programs on said software dispensing kiosk;
• in response to a software selection, emulating, on said software dispensing kiosk, a portable computer system executing said selected software program, wherein a user can manipulate said selected software program;
• in response to a software selection by a user, accepting payment from said user for a selected software program;
• and
• in response to said payment, transferring an instantiation of said selected software program to a hand held computer system of said user.

A network system for distributing software programs comprising:

• a networked server for receiving and storing software programs from software developers;
• a remotely located software dispensing kiosk networked with said server and for receiving and storing software programs from said networked server;
• in response to a user request, said software dispensing kiosk displaying a directory of said software programs;
• in response to a software selection, emulating, on said software dispensing kiosk a portable computer system executing said selected software program, wherein a user can manipulate said selected software program;
• in response to a software selection by a user, said software dispensing kiosk accepting payment from said user for a selected software program;
• and
• in response to said payment, said software dispensing kiosk communicating an instantiation of said selected software program to a portable computer system of said user.