All about the app store
The concept of The App Store was created with the introduction of the iPhone. One of the many features of the iPhone was downloadable applications created by third parties, which could run on the phone. These applications consisted of games, navigation systems, restaurant finders, image editors, and many more. These iPhone apps quickly grew in popularity. At the time of this review, there are over 23,000 different iPhone apps to choose from.
The App Store started in July 2008. When it first opened, there were very few apps that users could download and use on their iPhones. However, the number of downloadable applications grew rapidly. One of the reasons for this is that Apple allowed anyone who chose to do so the ability to create and submit a request for review. If Apple liked the app, they would add it for others to use. This allowed the number of iPhone apps to grow rapidly due to user-generated content.
Later in 2008, the iPod touch was introduced. It was basically the iPhone without the phone functionality or the camera. iPod touch owners can download and use many of the same applications that iPhone users can use. This has allowed Apple to get much more out of their iPhone apps than they would if only iPhone owners were able to use the apps.
Applications range in price from free to over $40.00 for the largest and most complicated applications. High pricing flexibility allows anyone to purchase the applications. Very popular app creators can also generate income. Apple currently shares a 30/70 revenue share with developers, with developers keeping the latter.
Currently, the Apple App Store has witnessed a phenomenal success as the number of apps available grows rapidly with each new day. Because it’s such a new form of business, Apple has almost a complete monopoly on the downloadable content market for phones. The iPhone app store can be accessed in many countries around the world, each with their own version. If Apple keeps up with its innovative products and high level of user-created content, it could be on its way to becoming one of the most successful companies of all time.
The only thing that could hinder Apple’s enormous success is if people stop buying the iPhone and iPod touch. If another company creates a similar product that is better and cheaper, then the iPhone app store may start to decline. However, many companies have tried to compete with Apple without success. Apple is likely to dominate the portable entertainment market for some time.
If Apple continues on its current path, touch applications for the iPhone and iPod may soon compete with complex console games and other portable gaming devices such as the PSP and Nintendo DS. The main setback that prevents Apple platforms from completely dominating the market is the high price. If Apple ever lowers its asking price, there will be almost no hope for other companies. Apple has created a truly unique and successful system with The App Store.