A client/server distribution system for applications, media, messages, and other items operates by distributing a list of items to client devices, then the client devices may generate a user interface that reflects the availability of the items based on the capabilities of the device and permissions of the user. The distribution system may distribute media for consumption on the clients, applications that may be executed on the server, messages for status and other purposes. Each item may have an associated application that may be launched from the user interface, and the client devices may customize the launch script or other configuration based on the characteristics of the client device and permissions of the user.