“I plan to make Podcaster for the Android operating system. At least there, I will be welcomed instead of being walked all over.” -Alex Sokirynsky, developer of Podcaster
Many software developers have experienced issues with Apple because of the strict and sometimes inconsistent policies they maintain when it comes to the App Store approval process. Other operating systems such as Google’s Android and Nokia’s Symbian offer a more open alternative for App development, but they do not have a hugely popular platform (like iTunes) or the extensive content to seriously compete with Apple.
With the recent release of the iPad, predicted to be the leader in the tablet market, there are more reasons than ever for developers to deal with Apple’s policies. The iPad’s larger screen and more diverse and functional touchscreen capabilities promise to make it the best device for Apps yet, but will the iPad’s advantages in market share and functionality be enough to convert some very unhappy developers to finally give in and build for the platform?
This graph shows an increase in the percentage of new App projects that were started for Apple in January, when the iPad was first unveiled, but does not specify if the buzz over the iPad resulted in more Apps developed by current iPhone OS developers or if some have been converted from Android or other places.
While some may think that modifying an App to appease Apple is not a big deal, others, such at Tim Bray, former Sun Microsystems employee and new hire to Google’s Android team, feel differently. He has been quoted saying Apple offers a “sterile Disney-fied walled garden surrounded by sharp-toothed lawyers” and went on to simply and strongly say, “I hate it.”
If you were a developer and had to choose, would you rather have the freedom to create an App on your own terms and market it to a smaller audience, or conform to Apple’s rules in exchange for access to their built-in market?
Tim Allan is an intern with GY&K. He is currently a full-time student at Plymouth State University, graduating this spring with a major in Business Administration.
Quantity vs. Quality. In this episode, the panel rifles through a whole host of topics but through it all runs the thread of quantity vs. quality. Is a million impressions better than one or two really good ones? First up on this week’s show, we take a look at location-based mobile apps as the world celebrates Foursquare Day. Meanwhile, American Idol season is upon us and Brady, Ben and Holly can’t resist delving into some Idol talk (14:20). Then it’s off to the Apple Store for an in-depth look at the iPad (22:12). Later, Brady recaps his trip to SXSW (30:38) where mobile tagging is all the rage (33:05), Travis vents about Nike’s new Tiger Woods spot (38:28), Mike G. reveals his love of Old Spice (51:20) and Ben drops some praise on the new Gorillaz album, Plastic Beach (54:46).
