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Archive for the ‘Apple’ Category

Lost iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 a Media Ploy by Apple?

Wednesday, September 7th, 2011

Apple has a history of being a very private company. Stemming from its roots with Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, both having personalities that keep intimate matters close at hand, Apple is never one to divulge its secrets; without a plan, that is. Apple cultivates a following and brand loyalty that is close to unheard of, not only in the tech industry, but anywhere. The secret to their success on this matter is their deliberate release of key information at key times to bolster buzz and maximize free publicity.

As many are aware, according to Cnet, Apple has recently lost a second iPhone, the iPhone 5 prototype. Those who recall last summer’s fiasco remember the phone being left at a bar, taken and then sold to Gizmodo for device images, review, and teardown information. It seems odd that a second unreleased prototype would go missing in much the same manner. Simply put, this may all be a giant publicity stunt for Apple.

There is no secret that a new iPhone 5 is in the works. Rumors have been circulating for months about which processor, screen, and form factor will be used. In addition to technology websites, Apple may be starting to tire out mainstream media. They have established a solid brand with tremendous customer loyalty and have an immense market share in the states. Apple is no longer the underdog; the company has been valued as the single most valuable company in the world, and it’s hard to keep everyone balking in awe with every new release. Innovation is expected as the norm, and this has slowly tired out broadcast media.

The fastest way to disseminate information is a scandal, and Apple has managed to manufacture one just for their liking. Even a quick survey of top news sites has the stolen iPhone prototype at least mentioned, which at this point is all Apple needs. Just as Apple has always innovated to create new products by giving consumers what they want, so are they now leaking just enough information to keep its customers hanging for an official word?

Google’s App Engine Moves Developers to iOS

Wednesday, September 7th, 2011

Google’s App Engine service is starting to get some mainstream attention, though it’s attention for all of the wrong reasons. A recent price increase for its service is having many developers question their commitment to this brand and offering.

The Google App Engine is a service designed to host web apps. With it,

Android Development

If Google hopes to challenge apple in the mobile app business, they will need to keep the developers using the platform happy

The method of calculating CPU time has transitioned between a primarily resource driven price structure to one of front-end usage. This means that even applications that have very low bandwidth and resource requirements but that are constantly running will see a huge price increase. Some sources have reported that an application that used to cost around $3 a day to run is going to hit $70 by November when the complete transition is complete.

The biggest problem that this is going to have for Google is the transition by developers from Google services to other platforms. Android Developers are now more restricted to Google’s APIs and huge price increases, especially if they are taking advantage of the App Engine. This could lead android developers to transition to being iPad and iPhone developers as Apple has a brilliantly simple payment plan. While they do charge a heft percentage for their mobile apps, it is the same across the board without deviation.

While some developers may choose to transition away from Google, the most haunting issue is the lack of new blood coming into their ecosystem. With the cost of entry now catapulting ahead, a rise in iOS development will probably be seen. This only makes the problem worse in that competition in the mobile apps marketplace is not exceedingly high. Apple has a stronghold, at least in the states, but with Google’s fractured Android system, plus their new pricing structures, Android developers may be making the transition to a unified, streamlined production process. Ultimately, Google needs to step up and make their mobile app platform as a bit of a loss leader if they ever hope to chip away at the Apple dominance in the app market.

Steve Jobs Resigns

Thursday, August 25th, 2011

Steve Jobs resigns“Losing a visionary is really hard,” said Brian Barish, president of Cambiar Investors LLC, and if anything that is an understatement. Steve Jobs had been leading Apple over past 14 years, and you will find few people that said he did a bad job.

Jobs took Apple form being a company that was struggling to survive let alone compete, to a company that, briefly, was worth more than Exon Mobile. It is this accomplishment that people cite when calling Jobs one of the best businessmen of the 21st century.

So what does Jobs resignation from his position as CEO of Apple mean for the company? As Matt McCormick, a money manager at Cincinnati- based Bahl & Gaynor Inc said, “The fortunes of Apple have been closely identified with Steve Jobs,”. This is a sentiment that is shared by most investors. According to Bloomberg when Jobs resigned he took almost 52 billion dollars off the S&P 500. This happens simultaneously as Apple’s own stock lost 17 billion.

It is hard to say what this means for the future of Apple, all we know at this point is that investors see the resignation of Jobs as a bad sign. People speculating on the future of Apple need to realize that Steve Jobs is the man that led Apple to the point it’s at now, but that he did not do it alone. This statement is reflected in the amazing products that Apple has introduced over the past years.

Now the question on people’s minds is whether Tim Cook is fit to fill Steve Jobs’ shoes. This is a question that will only be answered in time. For now it’s safe to say that the iPhone 5 will come, and the day-to-day business at Apple will continue as normal. The only thing that seems to be immediately threatened is Apple’s stock price.

Using an iPads to Streamline Business

Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011

Tablet PCs, and particularly the iPad, have drastically changed the way people do business. From custom applications to portability and ease of use, the iPad is making the world, information and the internet more accessible than ever. Taking advantage of this almost means having an iPad development company on speed dial because many top companies are now creating custom apps which customers and employees can use to quickly find information and buy services.

Companies use these small tablets to store a wealth of information. Instead of having to carry around, or store, a library of books and manuals, an employee can have a simple tablet that has all the information they need to do their job stored on it. This information is both searchable and easily accessible, and always available, making jobs easier and employees more productive.

British Airways recently used an iPad development company to develop an application for their flight attendants that allows them to carry less on board the plane, but still deliver top-level customer service. The application has all the documentation the flight crew need, as well as a seating chart which can be uploaded before the aircraft leaves the gate and the ability to log incidents that happen both on the ground and in the air. These can then be synced with a main database once the device is brought back to the office.

Ipad development for business is still a very new field and there are very few people offering the services required by companies like BA who want to make their employees more productive with an app. IPad development is a mixture of web design, interface design, software writing and web development and requires a specialized team with lots of experience if it is to work well. Many applications will also require extensive testing by users to make sure they work in the environment for which they are destined, particularly high-intensity environments like the cabin of an airliner.

An iPad development company is a great way to streamline the development of these apps so employees can start using them as soon as possible. Ipad development for business is complex and needs to be done correctly the first time, otherwise it becomes time consuming and expensive – exactly the situation the use of iPad is trying to avoid.

IPad development means designing a complex app while sticking to the principles of the device – simplicity, ease of use, and a wealth of information, all right at the users fingertips.

Apple App Store vs. Android Market

Thursday, August 18th, 2011

On paper, both Apple’s App Store and Google’s Android Market provide very similar experiences. Both tools serve as a gateway for users on either platform to purchase and download apps for their phones. However, there are some critical differences in the two markets that mobile developers need to be aware of when beginning development. Being familiar with these differences can help developers decide whether Android development or iOS development is the proper path for their mobile app development strategy.

The biggest difference in the two platforms is that Apple reviews every app submitted before it is released to the App Store. Every app is judged on how well it adheres to the guidelines set forth by Apple, and is either released to the App Store or denied submission based on Apple’s verdict. The policy has come under fire from critics who say that Apple’s guidelines are too restrictive or too vague, and that Apple doesn’t provide enough feedback when rejecting apps. Android, on the other hand, does not have any sort of filtering process prior to apps being released to the Android Market. Mobile apps that have been built for Android can be published immediately, and will stay on the market unless they violate the Android Market‘s content policy. Typically, for apps to be removed from the Android Market, they have to contain some egregious violation. For example, the app must contain a virus, or blatantly violate copyright. Based on this difference, it is clear that Android development offers more potential than iOS development. Because Google does not screen apps prior to publishing them and does not limit what apps are allowed to do, mobile app developers don’t run the risk of pouring time and money into a project only to have it rejected.

On the other hand, Apple’s App Store might be more profitable than the Android Market. Statistics show that Android users pay for apps much less frequently than iOS users. While ads are a potential revenue source in free apps, mobile developers might desire the more consistent revenue stream that comes from charging for apps. In addition, the inclusion of ads can hinder the quality of mobile app development, as they take up space within the app. Because of this, app developers with a very unique, profitable idea might find more financial reward in opting for iPad development and iPhone development, rather than Android development.

There is an immeasurable amount of differences in the Apple App Store and the Android Market. The most important thing is for mobile developers to conduct research before beginning projects. This way, they can minimize the potential of a nightmare scenario where potential revenue is lost by developing on the wrong platform.

How Do I Find an iPad Development Company?

Thursday, August 18th, 2011

You’ve decided on developing an iPad app. Terrific. Whether you’re an individual or a company, ipad apps can be used to achieve your goals. They’ve become ubiquitous in today’s world. iPad app development is no easy task, however. You’ll need to employ a iPad app development company to make sure your vision realizes its potential. For many, “How do I find an iPad development company?” isn’t just a question, it’s THE question. It’s important to find a iPad app development company that can adhere to your vision and that can provide results efficiently. This article will help you be sure that you are hiring the right crew of iPad app developers for your project.

One question you might wonder is “How do I find an iPad development company that can understand my vision?” When choosing a iPad app development company, you’ll find that there are plenty of options both domestically and abroad. While offshore companies might be tempting with their low pricing structure, their results typically reflect the price. It can also be difficult communicating with mobile app developers who are overseas, further reducing the odds that your vision will be realized to its fullest. For best results, you should stick with a company that employs iPad app developers based in the United States. That way, you can be sure that communication barriers will kept to a minimum.

Another question you should consider is “How do I find an iPad development company that will focus on my project?” With some external companies, there is high diversification within a single team. Some companies are mobile app development companies, but the same teams also work on Flash or other projects. You should look for a iPad app development company with team specialized in mobile app development. It’s fine if a company has services besides mobile development, but look for a company that has a team specialized in mobile development. Continuing on this idea, you should seek a company with a team of iPad app developers that can work on multiple platforms at once. With the rise of Android and the steady popularity of iOS app development, apps need to be available on both platforms to reach your full potential market.

Hopefully this article has helped you find an answer to the question “How do I find an iPad development company?” You can have the greatest app idea ever, but without the right individuals executing it, the idea will be worthless. Following the advice outlined here, you will be more equipped to hire the right company and make sure that your vision is developed properly. With so many potential firms marketing their services, it’s more important than ever to do your homework and hire a dependable team who can fulfill your iPad app development needs.

Custom iPad Apps Redefine Real Estate Sales

Wednesday, August 17th, 2011
iPad apps for Real Estate

A custom iPad app could make it easier for Realtors to put this sign up on their properties

The real estate market is one that can quickly change: offers for housing go back and forth, interest rates change, clients have different wants and needs. And the only way

to stay on top of this fast paced world is to leverage technology to work for you, rather than as a cumbersome side effect of your job. The iPad presents a wonderful tool set for companies looking to have a flexible, mobile system. iPad apps for real estate need to be custom designed so they can seamlessly integrate with existing computer systems and client needs.

The iPad presents a wonderful canvas for iPad app developers. Complete with a beautiful, crisp display and a 3G Internet connection, it is always connected with the latest happenings. A custom designed app from a great iPad development company will boost sales and ease the communication between various parties. There are various iPad apps for real estate, but a custom designed app by the best iPad app developers may look something like this.

Imagine a custom iPad app made by a dedicated iPad development company for your business. A realtor gets an email from a client who would like to put their house for sale. The realtor takes the information and plugs it into the iPad app. It is then plotted online on a map with a picture of the home, both Google Street View and home owner provided. Then, a prospective buyer contacts the realtor. They meet at the office and the realtor pulls out the iPad complete with all of the photos, information on city/county taxes, even a room layout. After driving to the house, the prospective buyers decide that they want to put in an offer. The realtor then connects to the real estate office to get the latest rates and information available, drafts an electronic offer, which everyone signs directly on the iPad. It is then emailed or faxed to the homeowners for review.

This simple process is not a pipe dream. iPad app developers are building things like this all the time, but it is imperative that a competent team build the app. Finding the right iPad development company is a combination of meeting your needs and price, as well as competency in the marketplace. There are not a lot of iPad apps for real estate, so the right company can make or break a deal.

When looking at iPad apps for real estate, there are quickly more and more. Finding the right iPad app developers to ensure that your information is paramount and most easily accessible is key. The right iPad development company can truly make a difference and take your business into the 21st century.

 

What Would a Low-Cost iPhone Mean for developers?

Wednesday, August 17th, 2011

With rumors of the debut of a low-cost iPhone beginning to swirl, it’s important for iPhone developers to Low-Cost iPhoneassess what it would mean to them. The rumors are currently suggesting an iPhone model with less storage than previous iterations of the device. This new model would rely on Apple’s cloud storage services for its data needs; music, photos and other media would be saved to and pulled from the cloud in lieu of being saved to the device. Anyone running or working for an iPhone development company should be paying close attention to what Apple unveils in the coming months.

For iPhone developers, one thing to make note of is that a low-cost version of the smartphone means more users to market apps to. Currently, the biggest hurdle to owning an iPhone is the cost. If Apple were to release an iteration of its model that could be afforded by a less well-off segment of customers, it would potentially mean millions of new users flocking to iOS. Apple would finally have a device to compete with the lower-end Android devices that are currently available. For an iPhone development company that also develops for Android, it would likely mean that they need to consider shifting resources to iOS development. By taking this step, iPhone developers would avoid missing out on a massive wave of potential new customers.

Another thing to keep in mind is that a low-cost iPhone doesn’t just mean more users. It means more users who otherwise couldn’t afford to purchase one of Apple’s phones. These same users are also much more likely to prefer free apps over paid ones. Since the Apple App Store currently has a strong focus on paid apps, this could mean a chance for an iPhone development company to steal market share. By releasing ad-supported alternatives to paid apps, iPhone developers could cash in on a new market segment that inherently prefers free apps.

The prospect of a low-cost iPhone is certainly interesting to consider. The move makes sense for Apple because it would help stop some of the bleeding that has been caused by Android over the last year. Almost any  iPhone development company would be sure to appreciate this, as it means a larger market share. On the other hand, it also means deviating from a strategy of releasing only one model at a time – something that has worked out extremely well for Apple over the last four years.

How the iPad Will Change Retail

Friday, August 12th, 2011

The iPad is Apple’s foray into the tablet market. With millions of devices in the hands of consumers, its impact has already been enormous on consumers, and, increasingly, businesses. Businesses who wish to stay ahead of the technology curve and streamline their own processes will need to integrate the iPad into their existing corporate structure. One of the easiest places for this to occur is retail. So how should your company go about getting iPad applications into the hands of consumers in a retail environment? Hire an expert iPad development company.

Apple has already pioneered the iPad as a tool for retail with its Apple Stores. From describing product information to processing credit cards, Apple’s use has become

iPad in the retail business

Imagine if your retail environment was as dynamic and interactive as Apple's

a model for many others. However, this is just the start! With the right iPad development company, any business can leverage the advantages of small, powerful computing at its employees’ fingertips. The possibilities for this kind of setup are endless. Imagine a customer walking in and wanting to know more information on a product. A sales representative quickly pulls up the information on the custom-designed app which has all additional information for the customer to browse at their leisure. It also has a direct shipping and payment method, so they can send one as a gift, or order a specific color that is out of stock. The customer then pays with their credit card on the device, signs the device to authorize the charge, and a paperless receipt shows up in their email. Seamlessly integrated, an iPad application like this has the potential to change retail forever.

iPad development company is key for this to happen. Any company can purchase new technology for their employees, but fewer have the insight to hire the right iPad developer to make their implementation truly unique. Unique iPad Development is crucial for the success of new hardware integration and can set your business apart from the rest of the pack. Do yourself a favor and consider custom-designed iPad software solutions to revolutionize the way your company does business.

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iOS Devices and External Hardware

Wednesday, August 10th, 2011

The iPhone has truly redefined how people interact with their phones and the world around them. The surge of iOS app developers has created a multitude of apps, each of which offers a different approach to integrating with the hardware. The iPad and iPhone each have very advanced hardware built-in, however, they also offer iOS app developers many different ways to connect additional external hardware to provide additional functionality.

iOS with external hardware

The 30-pin dock connector is just one way iOS devices can communicate with the outside world

The iOS platform offers many different ways for the iOS app developer to integrate iOS devices with external hardware. Utilizing two cameras, a 30-pin dock connector, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and a headphone jack with an additional control mechanism, the full line of iOS devices offers many different ways to connect external hardware. Using these various inputs, additional functionality can be added. Sensors, switches, motors, and many other electrical devices can both offer input to an iOS device and be controlled by an iOS device.

The power of Apple’s mobile systems has presented itself through its large and ever expanding library of apps. The internal hardware provides a large base of power which can be tapped in to. From custom designed processors to crisp displays and many different sensors, including proximity sensors, there is a bulk of internal hardware to utilize. However, the power that exists can be easily supplemented with additional external hardware. When developers use iOS app development techniques that integrate with external hardware, they can extend the power offered by iOS devices to even more scenarios.

The iPhone and iPad have truly revolutionized the way in which people interact with their surrounding environments. With the additional of external hardware that can seamlessly integrate with one of the hundreds of thousands of apps, extremely powerful and agile computing environments can be customized and implemented in seconds. With the power of such devices coupled with external hardware to provide even more inputs, the sky is the limit when it comes to new and ever-changing ways to interact with data and the physical world. It is up to iOS app developers to come up with ways to take advantage of all the external hardware that has potential to integrate with iOS devices.

If you are a hardware developer looking to integrate a devices with an iOS device, Ecom Solutions is an iOS app Development company ready for the challenge.


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