The Business of iPhone App Development

The phenomenal success of the iPhone and the iPod touch has ushered in a “gold rush” for developers, but with well over 100,000 apps in the highly competitive App Store, it has become increasingly difficult for new apps to stand out in the crowd. Achieving consumer awareness and sales longevity for your iPhone app requires a lot of organization and some strategic planning. This book will show you how to incorporate marketing and business savvy into every aspect of the design and development process, giving your app the best possible chance of succeeding in the App Store. The Business of iPhone App Development was written by experienced developers with business backgrounds, taking you step-by-step through cost-effective marketing techniques that have proven successful for professional iPhone app creators—perfect for independent developers on shoestring budgets. Although there are a few iPhone app marketing books on the horizon, they appear to tackle the subject from purely a marketer’s perspective. What makes this book unique is that it was written by developers for developers, showing you not only what to do, but also how to do it, complete with time-saving resources and ready-to-use code examples. No prior business knowledge is required. This is the book you wish you had read before you launched your first app! What you’ll learn Transform your iPhone app into a powerful marketing tool with easy-to-use concepts and code examples. Analyze your ideas, research the competition, and identify your audience to evaluate sales potential. Protect your business and intellectual property and avoid potential legal hassles. Utilize several revenue-generating business models such as in-app advertising, affiliate programs, and In-App Purchase. Includes an extensive chapter on tapping into the Store Kit API. Build synergy with in-app cross-promotion and social networking. Improve usability and implement effective testing, plus a comprehensive walkthrough of provisioning and ad hoc distribution. Create a pre-release buzz online with Twitter, Facebook, blogs, and a dedicated web site promoting your iPhone app. Successfully navigate the App Store submission process. Execute a post-release marketing strategy by crafting effective press releases, soliciting app reviews, and leveraging the power of promotional sales and giveaways. Who this book is for This book is for any developer looking to build a successful business selling iPhone and iPod touch apps in Apple’s iTunes App Store. All the code examples included in this book can be downloaded from iPhoneBusinessBook.com. Table of Contents Seeing the Big Picture in a Crowded App Store Marketplace Doing Your Homework: Analyzing iPhone App Ideas and Performing Competitive Research Protecting Your Intellectual Property Your iPhone App Is Your Most Powerful Marketing Tool Money for Nothing: When It Pays to Be Free Exploring New Business Models with In-App Purchase and Affiliate Programs Testing and Usability: Putting Your Best Foot Forward Get the Party Started! Creating a Prerelease Buzz Keys to the Kingdom: The App Store Submission Process Increasing Awareness for Your iPhone App