Microsoft, trying to build new momentum for its Windows Mobile platform, tonight named some of the initial companies expected to release apps for the Windows Marketplace for Mobile store after it debuts later this year. The Redmond company is trying to counter the momentum Apple has seen with its popular iPhone apps.

Here's the list issued by the company in a news release this evening.

AccuWeather.com., The Associated Press, CNBC, Developer One Mobile Software, EA Mobile, Facebook, Gameloft, Glu Mobile, Handmark, Ilium Software Inc., Jeyo Inc., Kinoma, LiteScape, Magmic Games, Melodis Corp., MySpace, Namco Networks, Netflix, Pandora, PhatWare Corp., Resco s.r.o., ShoZu Inc., Sling Media, Inc., SBSH Mobile Software, Spb Software, Web Information Solutions Inc. and Zagat Survey.

In addition, Microsoft gave more details about Windows Marketplace for Mobile, saying that people will be able to pay for apps either by credit card or by having charges appear on their phone bills. The company announced a 24-hour return policy for apps, letting people get refunds within a day of purchase. And Microsoft said wireless mobile operators will be able to have branded sections within the Marketplace to be able to offer apps and services of their own.

Lastly, Microsoft said it will be working with top designers, starting with Isaac Mizrahi, to create exclusive themes for customizing Windows phones.

The company released the list in a preview of its news at the CTIA Wireless convention in Las Vegas this week. Microsoft is expected to show the new Windows Marketplace for Mobile at the event. Robbie Bach, president of Microsoft's Entertainment & Devices Division, is slated to give a keynote address Thursday morning.