More than 100,000 iPhone developers have downloaded the beta iPhone Software Development Kit (SDK) in the first four days since its launch on 6 March.
“Developer reaction to the iPhone SDK has been incredible,” said Philip Schiller, senior vice-president of worldwide product marketing, Apple. “Over one million people have watched the launch video on Apple.com, further demonstrating the incredible interest developers have in creating applications for the iPhone.”
The iPhone SDK provides developers with the same rich set of application programming interfaces (APIs) and tools that Apple uses to create its native applications for iPhone and iPod touch.
Apple also previewed its new App Store, which will allow developers to wirelessly deliver their applications to every iPhone and iPod touch user. Developers set the price for their applications, including the possibility of delivering it free of charge, and retain 70pc of all sales revenues.
Leading developers such as AOL, Electronic Arts, Epocrates, Salesforce.com and Sega have already demonstrated applications using the SDK. Apple described the developer response as phenomenal.
Among the vocal supporters of the SDK was American software firm Intuit. “The iPhone SDK gives us the tools we need to create powerful iPhone applications and is an important part of our overall mobile strategy,” said Rick Jensen, senior vice-president, small business group, Intuit. “We’re excited that the iPhone expands the ways our customers can solve key financial tasks wherever they might be.”
“Six Apart pioneered the mobile blogging experience with an iPhone-optimised blog service,” commented Chris Alden, CEO, Six Apart. “We’re taking it to the next level with our native iPhone application for TypePad which is already in development.”
The free beta iPhone SDK is available immediately worldwide and can be downloaded at http://developer.apple.com/iphone/program. The iPhone Developer Program will initially be available in the US and will expand to other countries in the coming months.
By Niall Byrne
