Android Tablet PC Performance: What To Look For In No-Brand Tablets

No-Brand Tablets better than PCs?

Apparently, the latest in consumer patterns for Tablets reveal that No-Brand Tablets, now-a-days being called as 'white-box' tablets are growing in sales by a whopping 19.6% (source DisplaySearch a renowned consumer analytics firm). Some of the reasons attributed for this are as varied as slow economic growth to lower prices of these manufacturer-direct tablets, especially from China and local providers. However, what No-Brand Tablets deliver is on the technology adoption, with close to 44 percent worldwide shipments, more so from China, the cradle of No-Brand tablet manufacturers. PCs sales have plummeted drastically while No-Branded Tablets entrench themselves more in expanding consumer base.

No-Brand Tablet Performance is similar to PC performance

PC is yet considered as the measuring dip for most of the modern devices making their debut. PC is perhaps on its last few laps before newer, faster and more capable technology will replace it entirely.

Ever since tablets have debuted, the debate of the end of PCs with the arrival of the final rival has been making the rounds. However, this is likely to happen only in a few years time. This is because the tablet brigade does not yet match the cost-effective hardware and processor capacities available for PCs.

However, the storage, and other core features such as CPU, RAM, screen resolution etc in PCs are considered more powerful, yet the superlative performance of tablets cannot be denied either.

This is largely because of the mobility factor that Tablets have while PCs seem rather restrained. Nevertheless, the present status quo is that Tablets augment core PC computing time by being able to use more conveniently and has greater number of applications are possible in comparison to sedate PCs.

Besides, software delivery across platforms for the PC is higher in comparison to Tablets. However, No-brand Tablets remain favorites as these come with Android 2.1 ver, the latest in tablet OS.

Cutting- edge Android Tablets Technology

Android Tablet PC uses Cortex A-8 and A-9 processors. These are stand-alone chips that any of the Smart Phone/Tablet manufacturers can source and assemble. Even Samsung Galaxy tablet, the present viral smart tablet, uses the same Cortex A-9 architecture to offer those rave features that is increasing its user base by the thousands every week.

No-Brand Tablets are giving you this core architecture, along with the same technology sans the expensive price tag of Samsung Galaxy tablet or a Motorola Xoom and other leading names in the segment.

Lower specifications will further reduce Non-Branded Tablet costs

Additionally, 'Whitebox' Tablet have another advantage, you could choose to own a Tablet that is perhaps at least one version lower than the current version of the OS presently in use and make a substantial savings (almost to the tune of half the cost price). You will continue to experience all the eulogized features of Branded Tablet PCs but without the exorbitant prices.

For example, a Chinese-manufactured Sumixe Android 2.1 Tablet with 7 inch Multi-Touch screen WiFi, HDMI, Camera costs as less as $146.94. There is even a wholesale price for institutional sales at $127.06.

Mobile App Testing Overview - iPhone and Android Testing

The fasting growing area within software testing is the mobile app domain. Applications developed for mobile platforms such as Apple's marketing leading iPhone and also the less popular Android platform are being tested using the same methodology that was used earlier for desktop and web based applications.

There are companies which spend tens of thousands of dollars for mobile app testing projects. This is not only due to the fact that the mobile domain is ever increasing and so companies are feeling the need to contribute, but also due to the sensitivity of data which is a critical factor in the success of any mobile app. People whose data gets stolen or robbed from mobile applications are very unlikely to give it another try, as the data can pertain to personal information with respect to the customer.

For iPhone and iPad applications, we find that the audience tends to be in the young 20s or early 30s. As iPhone applications are primarily related to multimedia, we expect that the graphics will be given a severe and thorough testing. The user in these kinds of applications is generally concerned with what he/she experiences on the screen, with respect to 'viewing pleasure'.

For android applications there is a certain level of 'maturity' or advancement which is also related to the category of audience which uses it. Android apps are commonly used by people who belong to the executive category, and so the applications tend to be more towards the business side of things. For example; business evaluation applications or CRM (customer relationship management), we find that even though they are available on almost all the platforms, they are most commonly used in the android applications. Also, since android apps have more stability to them (no disrespect to iPhone apps), the business people tend to be more comfortable using it. Also since android is open source it makes it that much easier and compatible to be employed for business purposes. Also, we find that the bulk of android applications, users will typically use them as they are easily transferred to other devices, its blue tooth compatibility is also a plus.

An interesting point to be noted, is that even though the platforms might be vastly different, for example the iPhone and Android platforms; the testing theory still remains the same. The overall picture is still the same, even though the domain has changed. The application flow has to be understood, the business requirements reviewed and the happy scenarios executed for the application, be it mobile domain or web domain or any other domain for that matter. There could be arguments that iPhone app testing is easier or iPad app testing is harder, or for that matter, Android app testing is easier but essentially they are different facets of the same domain. If we can understand and develop skills in web based testing it will also work in mobile apps testing.

Android Tablet: Samsung Galaxy Tab

The new market phenomenon nowadays is called the tablet computers. The release of the Apple's iPad proved to be successful and popular, and so other electronic companies have followed suit. They have started developing and making their own, but actually, the concept of a tablet computer is not relatively new. The mobile Internet connectivity and the demand for an on-the-go productivity tool only gave it a sure footing. Most electronic companies tapped Google's Android OS, and their products can be collectively called Android tablets. Samsung's new tablet computer, the Samsung Galaxy Tab, has just been unveiled to the public. Can it prove to be worthy of iPad's rival?

The Samsung Galaxy Tab looks like battling against Apple's in the aspects the latter isn't doing well. Samsung's Android tablet is significantly smaller than the iPad, measuring 7.4 x 4.7 inches, and this means it is easier to hold and carry. The iPad is little bigger and it needs to be held with both hands, which can be uncomfortable especially when using it in bed.

The tablet computer scale tips off a little in favor of the Samsung Galaxy Tab, because of its dual camera, on the front and at the back. These are 3.0 megapixel auto-focus cameras with LED flash. Though they won't ever be at par with real cameras, this Android tablet is perfectly okay for video-calling and taking pictures with friends. The large viewfinder can be quite a scare-off, though.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab uses Google's Android 2.2 (Froyo) OS, and is sped up by a 1 GHz processor. Similar to the iPad's App Store and iTunes, this Android tablet has access to the Android Market, where various applications can be downloaded. Lastly, it keeps the user always online with its support for HSUPA, HSDPA, EDGE, GPRS and WiFi networks.

Blackberry Platform - Enterprise App Market Place Potential

Not all mobile apps are the same, and choosing the right platform to launch yours on can be the key to your apps success or failure. Some things to think about when considering where to launch your next app are the audience you're attempting to reach and the strengths and weaknesses of the platform. If it's a large market consumer audience you're trying to reach, blackberry mobile is a winner. If you're building a complicated app that users can run in the background while using their phone for other functions, you'll want to use a multitasking platform like the Blackberry applications development platform.

The blackberry app development industry has it far better today than it did when it first launched. As with all new platforms it needed some time to build popularity and start offering different options for users. The blackberry mobile world is always growing and changing, and while some developers are showing rising profits others are declining drastically. Blackberry is still the leader for consumer and business users alike on a worldwide level. BlackBerry App World is an application distribution service and application developed by Research In Motion for the majority of blackberry devices. It provides BlackBerry users with an environment to browse, download, and update third-party applications. The blackberry mobile app service went live on April 1, 2009. RIM's BlackBerry App World is holding strong with 7.7% of app market shares and brought in $165 million in worldwide sales. RIM recently stated they have over 20,000 available apps. Compared to Apple's App Store which has over 250,000 and Google's Android Market which has 100,000 apps, the BlackBerry App World needs work. Of the three major app providers, they have the largest revenue per app compared to the Apple App Store and Android Market.

Customers benefit from having access to integrated apps developed specifically for them, using Blackberry tools, and a much bigger catalog of apps from multiple other developer communities. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive about the reliability and flexibility that Blackberry has to offer. For developers, the way to go is the blackberry app development platform mostly because of the tools that are available. Blackberry applications have extremely rich graphics, full multitasking, and ultrafast processing. Blackberry app development is growing with the use of WebWorks which offers leading HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript support on a blackberry mobile platform. They offer developers the ability to package and distribute apps to a broad customer base.

Blackberry app development continues to evolve with their various development technologies used to deliver reliable experiences for developers. Developers using Blackberry platform tools enable top of the line integration with their Blackberry applications. They are the most committed of any mobile platform to providing customers and developers with all the right tools. They continue to offer the best platform for both application users and developers. Your company could be developing great Blackberry applications today. If you're looking for a platform to develop on as a consumer or a business, this is it.

Android Tablets - What Are They and What Products Are the Best Out There?

After the introduction of the iPad, people have fallen in love with the tablet PCs. A tablet PC is not a laptop in the sense that it does not have a folding screen although it is as powerful as a laptop in terms of comparable performance. It is just a tablet with a fully functional touch screen that will allow you to browse, watch videos, listen to audio, play games and even use it for taking notes and reading electronic books. The most important thing about tablet computers is that they are very, very portable. Unlike a laptop that requires a backpack or a laptop bag to carry around, the tablet computer will fit in most coat pockets or women's handbags.

However, the drawback to the iPad and other popular tablet computers such as the Samsung Galaxy is that they can get quite expensive. Most people cannot afford to spend about $400 on the latest iPad and just pass on the thought of owning a tablet PC. However, people with smaller budgets can now still own a tablet computer by buying a cheaper Android tablet.

Android tablets are much cheaper than the iPad or the Galaxy. To understand why they are cheaper, you will need to know a little bit more about the Android operating system. All Android tablets use the Android operating system to run the tablet. This is an open source operating system that is free to use by anybody. In other words, any manufacturer can make a tablet PC and install the powerful Android operating system as software to run the tablet. The latest version of the Android operating system is the Android 2.2 version that is otherwise known as Froyo.

The free Android operating system has allowed many manufactures to come out with Android tablets that are much cheaper than the comparable iPad. Apple charges a premium price for their iPad simply because they were the first to come out with the concept of the tablet PC. Loyal fans of Apple will still shell out $400 on the iPad although most of them do not realize that they can get the same, if not better value by buying Android tablets that retail for a much cheaper price.

There are some Android tablets in the market today that you can buy for even half the price of the iPad or the Samsung Galaxy tab. The best part about Android tablets is that most of them will also use the same hardware that is used by reputed brands such as Samsung. For example, the Samsung Galaxy tab uses the Cortex A-8 or A-9 chip architecture. The Cortex A-8 and A-9 are open source technology which means that it is not just Samsung who has the right to install their chips on their tablet PCs. Many manufacturers of tablet PC's have taken advantage of the Cortex A-9 technology by installing it in their Android tablets.

Products like the iPad and Galaxy tablets are so expensive because the selling price includes a heavy marketing cost that has to be recovered. So, if you are going to buy a Tablet PC, you will be well advised to consider purchasing an Android tablet that will save you a lot of money while giving you the same powerful performance as the leading brands.

How Will the Battle of Apple V Android Affect Mobile Marketing?

Android is devouring market share at an alarmingly rapid pace on its way to the top of the mobile OS world, but, if you're at all interested in mobile trends, you probably already knew that. But while Android continues to conquer, what you may not realize is how significantly this trend could affect what have become common practices among advertisers and businesses that want to take advantage of the new media frontier. As Android's growth outpaces Apple's, even after the release of the iPhone 4 just months ago, the once commonplace question for brands getting started with mobile marketing-native app, or mobile website?-no longer seems fitting for the state of the mobile market.

Those who built iPhone apps (instead of mobile websites) early on to capitalize on the remarkable growth of the market, are now, when it comes to market share, bound to Apple's fate as the competition intensifies. To better articulate the problem with building native apps while the mobile market remains fragmented, let me first provide a little background information. The biggest barrier to Apple's growth at this time, and what is empowering Android to snatch up more of the market, is that the distribution channels for the iPhone are very limited. In the U.S, AT&T isstillthe only wireless carrier that sells the iPhone. After months of rumors of a Verizon iPhone in the works, AT&T remains thesolecarrier to provide service for the iPhone and, therefore, Apple's only distribution channel. Meanwhile, Android devices are available through any major carrier in the U.S., including Verizon, AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile, which makes the Android platform available to many more mobile users. That means, despite the wild popularity of the iPhone, unless, and until Apple can work out deals with other major U.S. carriers for distributing the device, iOS will keep bumping into the ceiling when it comes to global market share. And so will advertisers that have hitched their wagon to the iPhone star.

Whether or not Apple takes the steps necessary to recover market share (such as broadening the iPhone's distribution channels), in the meantime marketers need to start re-evaluating their strategies for moving forward on the mobile web. In the past, a device-centric marketing campaign wasn't necessarily a bad approach-prior to the rise of the Android operating system, and its adoption by consumers and carriers alike, iPhone owners were the audience worth targeting, whether through mobile advertising or developing a branded app native to the iOS platform.

But businesses that released iPhone apps early on may not have realized how much that choice would limit their exposure in the months and years to come. Today, it has become critical for advertisers to consider market (and audience) segmentation when weighing mobilization options. And in many cases, unless there is some circumstantial reason to consider iPhone owners a more qualified audience, or one with more buying power, it's hard to make the case for an iPhone app, which will cost more to develop and ultimately reach less than a quarter of all mobile users.

If the current trends are any prediction, the mobile market will remain fragmented, as each platform grows and progresses separately from others. This means, for advertisers and businesses that want to overcome market segmentation and reach mobile users on all platforms, the best option currently available is website mobilization. Though there are some situations where building an app can be advantageous to advertisers, when it comes to today's mobile market, to make your business accessible to the broadest audience, website mobilization is clearly the best solution. With a mobile web site, marketers, businesses and individuals can work around platform fragmentation problems, and start engaging the broader audience.

Pros and Cons in the Battles of iPhone With the Android

2010 witnessed one of the grandest preparations of battles of the mobile operating systems, all the players have been working hard to bring into their arsenal the best available out there. Apple one of the prominent players in the mobile phone industry, since its inception of the Apple iPhone in 2001, launched the fourth generation of the legendary device, and on the other hand the internet giant, which never liked to develop their custom hardware, instead provided the software around which different hardware manufactures could frame their specific devices.

They came out with the 2.3 version of their Android operating system, interestingly called the gingerbread. Rest mobile operating systems seem to have been abandoned by the public, like once very popular the symbian operating system developed primarily by Nokia seems to have lost the game. On the other hand the Microsoft's windows mobile platform is counting its days to the end. Rest all seems to have been wiped out in the competition.

The arrival of all the new players with all new designs and plans, seem to take the market by storm, and we will have to evaluate that how are they doing in the year 2011. Primarily we are seeing only two major players on the scene, the Apple's iOS (found only in the iPhone, iPods and iPads.) and the Google's Android (found in many phones in the market, primarily because its open source and easily implemented)

Cracks in the iOS

Undoubtedly the iOS in the iPhone and other Apple mobile devices have ruled the market, even when the first version with so many bugs and flaws were launched, still it was the favorite amongst the users, some people bought as a style statement, some as loyalty towards Apple, and some found the design too interesting. Still the flaws are as follows:

Inflexibility in the software: the iOS by default does not allow you to tweak or customize the user interface; it's only possible by hacking of the OS, called Jailbreak.

The devices are not productive: they are good for those who are willing to consume information rather than create it. You can easily read a newspaper on any iOS device, but writing a mail could be so more cumbersome.

Limited hardware: the Apple has always been strict in supplying limited hardware with limited software; you will have to suffice your lust for power, with what Apple gives it to you.

Cracks in the Android:

Android was an initiative of a group of companies which named themselves the "open-handset alliance" the operating system has gone through a very high number of transitions in a very short time. Moreover since the operating system is open-source any one can use the source to build his custom Android version. Still there are flaws in this too:

Market fragmentation: any manufacturer can use any version of the operating system and unveil its own device running on the Android, which does not maintain the contingency in the market.

different flavors by the manufacturers: there is a set of buttons that is used by the Android operating system, but keeping the design in mind, each of the manufacturers launch their own specific models, which gives user a different handling while running the same operating system anywhere.

No leads: Google certainly refrains from showing leadership towards the marketing and publicity of the operating system.

What can the consumers expect out of this?

Keeping this war in mind, only the consumer will be the ultimate beneficiary. Not only will they get better priced, but when the rivals start banking on the shortcomings of their enemy operation system, that will ultimately lead to the invention of the refines operating system. The Smartphone market which is already ablaze with the latest entrants in the market, has also sent out sparks to the tablet market, where yet again the guru Apple launched its first tablet the Apple iPad around an year ago, and soon we are to expect tablets based on the Google's honeycomb operating system unveiled at the CES-2011, Las Vegas.

Our verdict

The race is too close, and the winner might come out with just a hairline difference, Apple with its charisma, brand value and consumer likeliness, will remain dear to the consumer. On the same hand the Google's Android is too customizable and adaptable to almost any device, holds much more potential, but requires a leadership at the moment.

How To Build Your Own Mobile Application

Today it is valuable for a business or service to be a player in the mobile application game. It is valuable in generating buzz about your business, and gives customers the ability to have an interactive relationship with you. It is possible you are simply a person who has the creative ideas to design an app of your own. Doing this does not have to be as difficult or expensive as you may think. In just a few simple steps, you can be on your way to designing and selling your own applications.

Getting your application built by an experienced developer will be the most important step. Prior to hiring a developer you should lay down some simple creative plans about what it is you want. You can base your app ideas on the type of business or service you run, and how best to target your specific audience. Interaction is the key, so be sure to figure out what it is about your company that your consumers are most interested in. Expert developers will help implement your ideas by writing programs and codes, and building the technological part of your app. If you don't know where to find an expert, or how to determine who will work best for you and your budget, you can post your project ideas on the internet, and receive bids on the project. Sites like GetAppsDone and Elance are good pages to start.

Once the basics of your application have been created, you will want to do some mobile app testing. Mobile app testing and load testing will help ensure that your finished app works and uploads exactly as you need it to. Finding out the issues with performance testing before you put your app on the market is crucial. An unusable application will do nothing but waste your time and finances. Testing of your product will save you money and time in the long run.

Once your application is developed, and all the kinks have been worked out, it will be time to try to sell it. Then you will upload your products to locations like The App Store and the Android Market. You can advertise your app and spread the word about it once your app is ready to download. Insert word about your application in whatever format of advertising your business is already using.

If the most important element of your mobile app development is saving money, there are a couple ways you can skimp on your budget. PhoneGap is a website that your developer can use for help. PhoneGap is a web service of pre-made modules. This saves a ton of days when it comes to coding and programming. You can find out if your developer would agree to being paid after the app starts to make money. This gives your developer a chance to make a larger amount of dollars in the end.

Protecting Children With Android Spy Software

Cell phones are growing increasingly popular with children and teenagers of all ages. With the use of Android operating systems now being implemented into smart phones, there is more concern for parents to watch their children and monitor their usage. This task is completed more easily with the use of the correct android spy software.

Many parents have some qualms about whether or not they should monitor their child's cell phone usage. However, with the use of Android operating systems opening cell phones to an improved gateway towards the internet, there are fewer reasons why a parent would not be concerned. Monitoring the use of your child's phone can almost be a necessity in some instances in order to promote their safety. The software depicted will be able to give you access to a variety of information on your child or teen's cell phone. You will be able to log information such as their contacts, phone calls, text messages, pictures, videos, and internet usage. If you want to ensure that your child isn't talking to a stranger or someone that you wouldn't permit them to interact with, this can be a great help to you as a parent.

You can also track things such as GPS location. If there is a good signal for GPS on the phone, the logger will be able to give you updates every thirty minutes about the location of the phone or at an interval selected by you. It will also be able to provide you with a map that will show you what the current location of the phone was at the appropriate time frame.

If you are concerned about any secret plans that your teenager may be making, you can learn more about this by logging the calendar function of the phone itself. This will be able to tell you information about when an event is happening, what time, and where the listed location is. Likewise, many teens tend to talk about their plans with their friends via text messaging. For parents that have concerns about getting caught by their teen for the monitoring, it is important to consider the stealth qualities of any spy tool that may be used. You want to stay away from anything that would be too noticeable by your teen. For example, the option listed here will run in a stealth mode that is undetectable when the phone is being used.

However, this type of monitoring option isn't just used for the sake of safety in correlation with teens and children. On the contrary, it can sometimes be used just to ensure there isn't too much usage of a phone when in the possession of a child or adolescent. If you're concerned about too much usage of the phone causing your cell phone bill to increase, this will be a good way to monitor when and how the phone is used when you are not around.

Ultimately, android spy software can be a reasonable way to ensure your children or teenagers are using their cell phones correctly and responsibly. It is a tool that is becoming increasingly popular as Android phone use progresses. Whether you are doing it for protection or just to monitor usage overall, you will find that this is one of the most useful ways to get insight into usage of the phone.

Top 5 eBook Apps for Android

Android phones and tablets are excellent devices for eBook reading. You can get free apps for your Android device that you can use to read your eBooks from the major sources including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. You can also read eBooks on Android that you download from any other store. Below are the top 5 most popular eBook apps for Android.

1. Amazon Kindle Android App

The Kindle App for Android lets you read all of your Kindle eBooks on an Android device, even if you don't own a Kindle eReader. If you do have a Kindle, you can read your eBooks on both the Kindle and Android device. Your reading progress will be synced between the devices with Amazon's "Whispersinc" technology. Like the Kindle itself and other Kindle apps, you can access free content and download eBooks for $9.99.

Download: Search for "Kindle" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: Amazon Kindle eBooks in the AZW format that are only sold at Amazon.com.

2. Barnes & Noble Nook Android App

The Android Nook App from Barnes & Noble lets you read all of the Nook eBooks on your Android device without having to own a Nook eReader. Barnes & Noble's Nook system is unique in that it will let you lend content with their "LendMe" software. You can also sample any of the Nook books for free before you buy.

Download: Search for "NOOK" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to read using the Nook App, then you should get eBooks from Barnes & Noble's Nook store.

3. Sony Reader Android App

The Sony Reader Android app comes pre-loaded with three classic titles and three excerpts from bestselling eBooks. You can sync your reading position, bookmarks, and highlights to Reader Daily Edition (PRS-950SC with firmware 2.0). Like the other apps, you can also read Sony Reader eBooks even if you don't have a Sony Reader.

Download: Search for "Sony Reader" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.2 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to read Sony Reader eBooks on your Android device, get them from Sony's "Reader Store".

4. Kobo eReader Android App

With the Kobo Android app, you can buy eBooks from inside the app and download them directly to your phone. Take your entire library with you on the go. You can find all of your favorite titles and authors in Kobo's large eBook selection.

Download: Search for "Kobo" in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 1.6 or higher.

eBooks Supported: If you want to use the Kobo Android app, you should download eBooks from the KoboBooks website.

5. Aldiko Android App

The Aldiko Android App gives eBook lovers an alternative to apps from the bigger book companies listed above. With Aldiko, you are not locked into one eBook store. Instead, you can buy eBooks from any eBook retailer that sells Adobe PDF or EPUB eBooks. You can download eBooks directly to your device without needing to use your computer. Import your own content and create your own eBook catalogs.

Download: Search "Aldiko: in the Android Market.

Android OS Version Supported: Android OS 2.1 or higher.

eBooks Supported: The Aldiko Book Reader supports Adobe-DRM ePub and PDF as well as non-encrypted ePub and PDF formats. You can get eBooks anywhere ePub and PDF eBooks are sold or available for free. You can also get eBooks from your public library (where supported).

All of these apps are solid solutions for eBook reading. Choose the one that will work best for you based on the eBook reader or mobile device that you own, and the eBooks that you've already purchased and downloaded.

The Many Advantages Of Purchasing An Android Phone

The Apple iPhone may get most of the media's attention, but it is not the only great phone on the market today. More and more people are learning that there are quite a few Android phones out on the market today. These phones are available with just about every carrier today on a variety of makes and models. The Android phone is quickly growing to becoming the most popular mobile phone platform that there is. Find out some of the advantages of using an Android phone.

One huge benefit of this phone's platform over others is that it has true multitasking. This means that you can be running more than one application at a time on various devices. This is great when you need to switch back and forth between applications that you are using. Also this means that the platform will be easier to expand in coming years when hardware can do more.

The Android platform will be around for a number of years. This is a huge advantage since you know for a fact that it's going to be continued to be developed as it's an open platform. This is great since you can get used to it and won't have to relearn something year after year.

You can feel confident investing money into applications. Since these can be used again and again with other phones, you are future proofing your mobile applications helping you out in the long run.

You are not locked into one carrier. You can choose what is best for your area and use that. This is a big advantage since you can get a quality platform while having a phone that you know will get a good signal and have the fastest speeds on the internet with the best reception.

You won't be locked out of features on the operating system as it's more open than other platforms. There have been issues in the past with things like Skype or Google Voice. All of these will work on it. No one can withhold developers from making whatever applications they want.

iPad Apps - Create Your Own App And Make Money

When any new gadget hits the market, depending upon its popularity, there are so many options to make a profit out of it, by making use of the opportunities available. For instance, the introduction of iPad has created new vistas both for the ease of use in mobility but also marketing the various apps that are used in them. In fact, there are as many as 130,000 apps that are in use for iPad and it is bound to create a lot of confusion among the users as to which is the best suitable app for them. The number is ever increasing as many more app developers are adding their share in the app store and it is only natural for people to sort them to find a suitable one.

Likewise, regarding the ways of advertising used in these apps; there is a great scope for making a lot of money. Social networking that is based on the location of the user and augmented reality are assisting in the marketing of iPad apps to make people richer. If certain tips are followed in iPad app marketing, it is bound to offer greater profits. Choosing the right marketing strategy is vital in making it a lucrative business. Since the cost involved is too high, it is only but natural for marketers to think twice before taking it up, but there are other cost effective methods too, to market iPad apps.

Of the various options in marketing the iPad apps, such as forums, blogs or social networking, it is wise to have basic knowledge and if there is an idea of hiring a professional, they must have a good rating and reviews. The requisites for an iPad to be marketed well is that it should be one of the most sought after apps by the customers and to achieve this, the developers must design them such that it is unique from the existing apps. Also, the customer's concerns and requirements have to be taken into consideration.

Apps that have less competition in the market, stand a high chance of marketed well than otherwise. Further, the app designed must suit the application purpose. Gaming apps have always been a rage among the avid gamers and hence they are the best choice for a new marketer to start with. They are available in all ranges from freeware games to shareware games and cost only as much as ten dollars. Graphics including complex graphics are popular too and it is not difficult to market them. iPad is a launching pad for those who wish to reach great heights in making money.

How to Build an iPhone App

Do you really want to build an iPhone app?

This might sound like a daft question at first. But I want to make sure that you have fully explored your target audience and considered whether it would be more suitable to launch an app on the Blackberry or Android platform.

If you have your mind set on an iPhone app, then I urge you to also consider what happens when it is a success? Yes, I am assuming that your iPhone application will be a success because they are growing so rapidly. Will the agency you use be able to launch a similar app on the other platforms so as not to alienate consumers? Will you choose to combine your iPhone app with perhaps a mobile website that would allow all other smartphone users to access your content?

Search out the iPhone apps you like!

I have managed many website and iPhone application projects and one of the mistakes I regularly come across is managers that are too reliant on the designers. I suggest that as part of your initial brief you really look into all the different types of iPhone apps that are within your market. If there are no iPhone apps then simply look at what you like. Consider why one flows better than another, what elements frustrate you and what ideas could you use to build your iPhone app.

Understanding Apple Connect for your iPhone Application

Apple Connect is a website used by your iPhone application developer. It is basically a website that holds the details of your app and is used to send your iPhone app binary code to Apple for them to approve... if you are lucky (I'll get to that in a moment)

It is also the place where everything you see on iTunes is managed. So those screen shots you see for each app, you guessed it, they are uploaded through connect. You may want to go through connect with your iPhone app developer just to get used to what you can and cannot do.

Pricing your iPhone Application

Apple operates a tiered pricing structure so all you have to do is select a pricing tier from 1-10 to set your price around the world i.e if it is 59p in the UK then it will automatically be 99 cents in the US. Again, you can access this with your iPhone developer by visiting Apple Connect.

Planning your iPhone app layout

Bespoke apps will be much less expensive if you do the ground work. By this I mean work out exactly what you want and create a 'work flow' diagram. Basically start with a blank picture of an iPhone and sketch in your iPhone app splash screen and homepage. Work out what buttons will go along the bottom of your iPhone app to create the menu - you can have five buttons.

Next, using lots of blank iPhone images, create a hierarchical structure of your iPhone application. By doing this, you can literally show your designer how you want it all to work i.e. click here and it shows this screen or searches this item. Don't worry too much about whether it is technically possible as your iPhone app designer will undoubtedly suggest some options for improvement. Once the iPhone app workflow is complete then you and your designer know exactly how the app should work.

Bespoke iPhone Apps V's Online App Builders

Only about 12 months ago, if you wanted to build an iPhone app then you had to look for a bespoke answer. Today things are rapidly changing and there are a number of US based companies and one UK company offering a build your app online service.

The fundamental difference between bespoke iPhone application development and online app builders is cost and flexibility. So it all comes down to 'what do you want your iPhone app to do?' and how much do you want to pay?

With bespoke iPhone applications you really can create just about anything and there are companies or individuals very skilled in this area. So ask yourself what you are trying to achieve. Is it brand building through clever entertainment or are you trying to get content to your customers in order to a) interact with them and build your brand or b) help them through to the final purchase of your product or service?

Think back a few years to the use of flash in website design. I was lucky enough to be part of a website pitch to Disney and guess what; we went over the top with flash. Incidentally we won the contract, however soon there were full flash websites everywhere. Today it is very much a different story, for most websites the number one objective is to get content across quickly and efficiently and in a manner that customers are used to, so for example, having the menu on the top or the left hand side of your webpage. Flash is now used predominantly in other areas to add to the overall user experience.

So for what might be classed as 'utility iPhone apps' stick to the rules and always think about the content you are trying to deliver.

Online iPhone App Builder

The main thing that you need to consider when using an online app builder is will it deliver what your customer needs? Can an online iPhone app builder offer your customer everything that they require without you having to spend anywhere between £3000 and £20000 plus, building a bespoke iPhone application!

Most online app builders allow you try them for free for either a set time or until you publish your app.

iPhone App Download Restraints

Your iPhone application needs to be less than 10mb's if you want users to be able to download it from their phone via a standard connection i.e. not wi-fi.

If you are developing an iPhone game application of sorts then you are likely to go over this limit, however for an iPhone business application, then ideally try to keep it under 10mb's

iPhone Content

If you read only one piece of text in this whole document, make sure you read this next part which looks at iPhone app content and the importance it has in getting your iPhone application signed off by Apple.

When you set about building your iPhone application the first thing you need to realise is that content is vital. Let's take entertainment and games out of the equation for a moment because by their very nature they are highly likely to get signed off. So let's concentrate on building a utility or business iPhone application.

Whatever you do, don't build it just because everyone else is. Build it with your customer in mind. Do your customers already view your products online, are they interested in your news, do they visit your website to access content that is not available elsewhere, can you help your customers with a problem, do you want to find out what your customers think? These are just some of the questions you should consider when building your iPhone application.

Like any marketing or communication tool...building an iPhone application only works as an entertainment gimmick on rare occasions. For 99% of us, it has to serve a real purpose.

What we do know however is that your customers want information, news, products or promotions in the palm of their hand and with an iPhone app you have the perfect marketing tool from them to access your content and interact with your company.

The Cost to build an iPhone Application

A bespoke app can cost anywhere from £3000 to £20000 upwards. The price of bespoke iPhone application development is decreasing as more and more as iPhone application developers enter the market.

Building an iPhone app online costs anywhere from between $10 -$100 per month rental in the US an around £45 per month in the UK.

Submitting your iPhone App

When your iPhone app is submitted to Apple for approval you can expect to hear whether it has been approved or rejected after 1 or 2 weeks. If it has been rejected than Apple will give you some indication as to what needs to be improved before you can submit your app again.

You will have to work with your developer to asses and fix the problem.

I hope that you find some of the information useful and good luck.

How to Build a Mobile Marketing App

People are using their smartphones to access more and more information and knowing how to build a mobile marketing app means that you can take advantage of this growing trend and put your business and services in the pockets and purses of the people living in your community.

While having a website may be important, until now getting your website in front of people living in your local community has often meant having to spend a great deal on website optimization. Now you can put all your details onto the phones of your town or city inhabitants quickly and effectively and can even make use of these great marketing tools to increase your website trade and improve your website optimization.

So How Does It Work?

A local business App is very similar to a mobile website, but is far more interactive and intuitive. Not only can you include interactive features such as having customers email photos taken with their devices right to your email box with the touch of a single button, but you can also reward them for doing just that. One of the most effective uses of an App include rewarding your loyal customers with discounts, specials and new products or services. While having a mobile website is like watching a movie, Apps are more like acting in it! Your customers can add comments on your App fan wall, they can make recordings and send them to your mailbox or can even scan your QR codes to reveal rewards.

Once your customers have downloaded your App onto their phones, you can then send them unlimited push notifications telling them about your discount offers & promotions. Push notifications are 100% permission based and are completely free of charge, so you can communicate with your customers without having to spend another dime. You can also build your mailing list through the App and can add your shopping cart if you want to offer that service. In addition, you'll be able to add all your social media sites and have instant updates as they appear and unlike your mobile website, your App can go viral and can be sent from one person to another through the integrated tell a friend feature. Now your happy customers can pass the word on in a way that makes sense - with just the touch of a single button.

How to Build a Mobile Marketing App?

If you don't have any technical skills, fear not! There are a wide range of app building softwares available online. Some softwares work only with the Apple operating system, while others will allow you to build Apps for both Apple and Android. Many of these app building softwares have easy to navigate back offices where you will be required to cut and paste information and upload graphics of a particular size. It is important to check the features included by each of these companies and find the ones that will best suit your business needs and requirements.

Package prices will depend on the number of features included, how much pre-build work is done for you and how much work is required by yourself to complete the App. You will also want to ensure that there are no hidden costs such as having to open a developers account for the Apple store, or having limited push notifications. Where possible it is best to find a platform that includes guaranteed acceptance in the App stores, or you may find yourself submitting and re-submitting resulting in multiple costs just to get your App live.

What Should it Cost You?

If you are going to be building your own App from the ground up on an App building software, then consider the cost of submitting it, the developers account costs and the time that it will take to complete the task. It is possible to get a pre-built App including a certain number of features to ensure its acceptance into the App stores for less than $500 and with a growing number of companies offering these services, you can even find them for less than $400. For this price you should also be able to get both an Apple and Android App built - there are a number of two for the price of one specials online.

It is important to remember that you will be charged a monthly hosting fee. Things to look at when calculating a good hosting price are:-

- Are unlimited graphics and pages included?

- Are unlimited push notifications included?

- Are there additional features which you can add later?

- Is the hosting per platform or is a hosting bundle?

Limited hosting packages can be found online for as little as $8-$10 per platform, and an unlimited hosting bundle including Android, Apple and HTML 5 shouldn't have to cost you more than $50 per month.

Knowing how to build a mobile marketing App will ensure that you get the product you want for a price you can afford and will ensure that you too can take advantage of this innovative and cost-effective marketing tool.

iPhone App Maker - Best Practices When Developing iPhone Applications

iOs mobile devices are becoming more and more mainstream these days, as many tech aficionados continue to support Apple's latest gadgets. Not to mention the influx of apps on the App Store are as well absurdly growing by the minute. And as what you'd expect from a very competitive market, an iPhone app maker can only be successful in mobile app development if his/her "creation" can rise above the competition. So, below are some best practices when developing apps for the iPhone:

Usability before functionality - Some developers consider features of an app first. While it's not entirely wrong to do so, they should prioritize UI & UX above anything else. Remember that users have to feel comfortable using your app and not overwhelmed or confused with all the app's features/functionalities. So, an app maker should concentrate on developing that is more user-driven. Find out your users' needs and preferences, and be sure to cater to those things they require or want.

Focus on your main features - You don't want your app to be a jack of all trades, master of none. This is important to remember to make your application as awesome as possible. Find out its core functions and focus on perfecting those. Besides, you can always add more features later on--that is when your users have given you feedback which ones they like.

It's all about the touch - Of course, the iPhone's touch-screen is a crucial factor to consider when creating an application. Fortunately, millions of iPhone users have become accustomed to the main gestures (tap, pinch and drag), navigation controls and user interfaces. That's why you need to make sure your app UI design matches and works well with the device's user-friendly, multi-touch commands.

Be aware of the limitations - The iPhone, has indeed, a robust, fast processor. However, it's still incomparable to the speed and capacity of a computer. So be sure to customize your app for the device and don't try to stuff it with features way beyond than it can manage. For instance, a 3D animation may look stunning on a PC during development, but mobile processors may not have the capability to handle overly demanding graphics.

iPhone app development (and succeeding at it) is a challenging task, especially to a newbie app maker. Be sure to learn the some of the best practices found above and apply them as you deem necessary.

Why Are Their More Viruses on Android Then iPhone?

The Android platform has more malware than the iPhone. It's a statement of fact. But why? What facets of Android phones make them seemingly less safe than iPhone? Are they really more dangerous, or is the Android platform really just a victim of its own success, and perhaps suffering from a bit of fear, uncertainty, and doubt.

I often hear these sorts questions from co-workers and friends about which device is safer, or why Android seems to be more prone to malware. To be honest, it does seem that the iPhone is a safer device to use, but in actuality it can be just as dangerous, if not more, simply because Android has taken on the stigma of the more "dangerous" mobile phone platform. Why is that?

First, iPhone seems safer because Apple has imposed some rather stringent controls over what software makes its way onto the Apple App Store. The open source style of Android and its App Market does enable the malware writers, but it also means that software submitted to it's directory has millions of eyeballs looking at, vice just the select few at Apple. The same can be said with regard to firmware and O/S type vulnerabilities, which research shows that the iOS platform might actually have more of. While Apple does a good job of fixing these security problems, it goes to show that iPhone isn't necessarily safer than Android, it simply has less publicized vulnerabilities, and vulnerabilities which are harder for people outside of the IT industry to understand. The Android platforms open market model makes it easier to distribute malware, and unfortunately for Android, malware is something that even the least savvy technology journalist can write about.

Second, what is it about the Android platform, that seems to be ringing the dinner bell as far as cyber criminals are concerned. Well, apart from the open market which enables the bad guys to more easily distribute malware, how bout the meteoric rise in popularity of Android? Cyber criminals are in it for financial gain, and they are going to operate where the money is. While Apple may be the world's wealthiest company currently, Android is the top mobile device platform in the world. Just as Microsoft Windows is the dominant desktop platform, Android is going to receive an unfair amount of attention from the criminals, simply because the number of potential targets is so much higher. Again, the open approach to the way Google handles the Android App Market does make it easier to distribute malware, but such is the cost of having the freedom of an Open Source platform. This isn't to say that iPhone users have no freedom of choice, nor that Android is completely open to the wolves, but in general, the Android platform lends itself to more techno savvy individuals. The open source structure of Android allows developers and handset owners to do nearly whatever they want to the platform. Does this make Android more dangerous? Perhaps. But it also allows malware and vulnerabilities that are discovered to be identified by the community, and fixed by Google, very quickly.

How does this all relate to Android having more malware? Android has more users. More users means more targets, and more opportunities to make money. So if you're using an Android phone, does that equate to swimming in a sea of sharks? Maybe. But, the tools exist to protect yourself, you just have to remember to use them.

The World of Apps

Mobile application development is one of the major sector that has created huge demand in the IT industry. Due to its upraised demand, leading web development companies have diverted their existing team into the mobile application development to explore the field potential at its length. The integration of web technologies into the mobile application development is another reason.

The major players in the mobile application development industry is Apple (iPhone/i-Pad), Adobe (Flash), Google (Android), and Microsoft (Silverlight, Windows, Windows Phone). They have provided the platform for the IT companies to develop different kinds of apps suiting to the need.

The mobile devices are no more for just making calls. They have advanced facilities with plenty of apps that have special features. There are more than 1000+ apps in the store for different applications that includes Google voice, Twitter, Pandora, etc. The 3D games apps have stolen the show with full multimedia application and development. The smartphones support lots of third-party applications that have wide range of functionality like GPS navigation, advertising, games, personal information manager, reference, etc.

The success of mobile applications is their entry into the business world. With the help of mobile apps, a business document can be easily accessed via mobile. One can even connect the slide show presentation to the projector using the right apps. These business apps have made the portability of documents cheap and affordable via smartphone, iPhone, i-Pad etc. Report says that more than 38 per cent of the company is using business mobile applications. The variety of apps available at the stores are innumerable.

The different apps developed are built around communications, organization, information and fulfillment such as email, messenger, directory services, voting polls, betting services, news alerts, sports updates, stock and event alerts, horoscope, bill payment via credit card, banking services, etc.

The mobile apps are broadly classified as native apps and web technology apps. The native apps are instrument-specific OS (operating system) based that claims to have superior UI (user interface). They need to access the device hardware. In contrast, the web technology mobile apps are easy to build and cost-effective providing one interface accessible on multiple platform. They have direct control over the distribution without the need to seek third-party approval. Web technology mobile apps have ability to build superior UI.

Usually the apps are developed using the supporting platform such as Android, iPhone, Windows etc. The Cross platform mobile development technology allows to develop apps once and run across different kinds of platform or OS in the current mobile market. The cross-platform mobile application development has given birth to a new concept that reduces the cost of production as well as saves the time. The apps are developed once and used across in different platforms. Some of the cross-platform mobile development tools are Rho-mobile, Widget Pad, Phone gap, mo-sync etc. Depending upon the need, the mobile apps developing company uses the appropriate technology.

Integrating the social media elements such as face book, tweeter etc, into the mobile environment has paved way to increased usage of smartphones in various areas. According to a recent report, more than 300 million users now access face book via mobile devices. It has been officially announced that tweets will be used for reporting athletics news in the forthcoming Olympics.

The most interesting piece of news about mobile apps development is that it has paved way to newer career prospect in the IT profession. Apart from IT companies, even the product and service companies are trying to establish their presence on social networking sites by developing their own apps. Mobile apps are in high demand and developers are in short supply. There is a gold rush on for developers willing to retool their technical skills and adopt a new design mind-set.

Above all, the mobile application development has given birth to evolution of new branch of commerce - The mobile commerce (m-commerce). Known as next-generation e-commerce, m-commerce enables the user to access the internet without needing to find a place to plug-in. This emerging technology field of m-commerce will find its way long through the century ahead.

Best Android Apps: My Top 10 Choices

Android based phones have a diverse array of applications available. For the new Android user, it can almost be overwhelming choosing which apps to install. With the recent release of new Androids handsets from major brands like Motorola, HTC, and Google, the Android developer community has been given a boost to crank out good quality Android software. Today, Android Marketplace features more than 10,000 apps from personal finances to games and utilities. While some applications are more useful to some than others, here are my top 10 Android apps.

Connect Bot

Connect Bot is an absolute must-have application for anyone that works with Unix or Linux servers. This app is a very decent and capable secure shell client for the Android phone. Connect Bot is an SSH Client for the Android Phone which allows you to connect to remote servers directly from your hand-held device.

Ping

This is another top Android app for anyone that works with networked computers. Need to know if your web server is up and running? Ping will let you check from your Android phone. This application does just what it says, it allows you to send ICMP pings to a server from your Android phone.

App Manager

App Manager is an Android application that makes managing your applications simpler. It allows you to backup unprotected applications to your SD card. It will also allow you to easily uninstall an application and to reinstall an application from your SD card.

Bar Code Scanner

This Android application uses the camera in your phone to read bar codes. This application reads both UPC style bar codes and QR codes. This application works with other Android applications such as the Amazon application to look up information and prices on products.

Got to Do

If you use David Allen's Getting Things Done organizational system, you will love Got to Do. This Android application implements the core concepts of GTD to manage tasks and projects.

Handcent SMS

The default messaging application on Android is pretty capable but it lacks a few features like saving MMS attachments. Handcent is a great replacement that shows messages in comic style bubbles, supports saving MMS attachments and has virtual greetings you can send to your friends.

Snap Photo Pro

Snap Photo Pro is a win at only $0.99 for the application. This Android application replaces the camera application that ships with Android. It features a software zoom and a stabilization. It also shows a grid representing the horizon and supports adjusting the white balance. I've found that this Android application takes much better photos than the default one.

WiFi Analyzer

If you need to see what wireless networks are around you and how strong their signals are, this is the application for you. It is also useful for troubleshooting Wi-Fi as it shows what channel the network is using and where various networks overlap. It can also indicate secure versus open networks.

Pic Say Pro

Photoshop for Android is still very much in its infancy but Pic Say Pro is an Android application that has a number of photo editing features. Even the free lite version outperforms the current incarnation of Photoshop for Android. This is a must have for editing your photos on the Android.

Shazam

I love music. And I love finding new music. Shazam is an Android application that can listen to a piece of music at a club or on the radio and identify the title, the album and the artist performing it. Amazingly, it is extremely accurate and works even on non-English songs.

There are lots of Android applications available today. Some are clearly better than others. My top 10 Android applications include networking tools, replacements for some of the default Android applications, a photo editor, organizer and music application. These top 10 Android applications will give you a great start with your Android mobile device.

Top Medical Mobile Apps For Doctors

According to the Manhattan Research firm, there are approximately 1,500 apps for health care professionals alone. In 2009 doctors owning smart phones surge 64% from the year before. That same year the number of physicians owning iPhones doubled. It estimates that by 2012, 81% of doctors will have smart phones with medical apps installed. This market continues to flourish with many useful medical mobile apps flying off the virtual iTunes shelf every day. The creative and invaluable apps offered leave the health industry and even health insurance brokers in perpetual awe. Worth noting is that most of these health apps are not regulated by the FDA, but this may soon change. Below is a list of the top mobile applications for physicians and medical professionals.

Epocrates Rx is a clinical reference application that provides information on drug, disease, lab, and drug safety for physicians at the point of care. The mobile app displays drug images that feature a multitude of information including directions, side effects, etc... alongside the image. A unique feature is the multicheck whereby the software is able to give information on the adverse effects of the interactions of a patient's drug cocktail. Another feature is the ability for the medical mobile app to identify the drug given the doctor's description of the medication (i.e. color, pill shape, and etc.). Epocrates also offers a CME credits program on the medical iPhone app where everything from studying to taking the exams are done at the doctor's finger tips without any traveling hassle, not to mention that all work is saved and tracked via the web app.

Compatibility: iPhone, Palm, Windows Mobile, Blackberry, and Android

Price: Four versions offered ranging from the free Epocrates Rx to Epocrates Essentials Deluxe, which costs $199 on a one year contract and $299 on the two year contract. Group discounts are available.

Medscape, which is part of WebMD, is similar in features to Epocrates Rx, except Medscape touts an extensive library of clinical and drug references and it offers video to its portfolio of offerings.

Compatibility: iPhone only for now but Blackberry coming soon

Price: Free!

Medcalc is, you guessed it, a medical calculator. The mobile app supports US and SI units. The iPhone app is able to compute medical formulas. The physician or medical staff can search for formulas based on name or keyword. They can look up a list of recently viewed formulas and they can archive favorite equations.

Compatibility: iPhone

Price: Free!

Medical Lab Tests provides a quick reference to normal lab values of common clinical lab tests. It offers a concise reference to over 100 blood tests. Both search and recently viewed features are accessible. The reference values are in US and SI units.

Compatibility: iPhone

Price: $5.99

Dr. Rounds is a health mobile app that allows doctors to keep patient records all in a pocket size piece of hardware. This tool keeps track of visits, diagnosis, procedures, service rendered, as well as helps physicians stay on top of their billing so that no patient is left unaccounted for. The purpose of the iPhone app is to remove the paperwork from the doctor's daily rounds and support patients more effectively and efficiently with many advance capabilities such as search, archiving, emailing, and even data sharing.

Compatibility: iPhone

Price: $24.99

Drug Trials gives doctors and health professionals information about clinical trials around a disease or illness. It even brings up Google Map to provide them with locations of where these clinical trials are taking place and also offers bookmarking capabilities. Additionally, it provides eligibility criteria and even emailing capabilities.

Compatibility: iPhone

Price: Free!

Blausen Human Atlas provides 3D animation in video and imagery form to help physicians communicate effectively with patients at the point of care. It is easier to show someone something, rather than tell them and this does just that. This mobile application offers several features: 3D animation (360 rotation) that physicians can zoom in and out of, video, still images, and a searchable medical glossary that they can cross reference to related animation and images. Unfortunately, an internet connection is required to view the videos, medical glossary, and still images. This app is offered in 10 different languages.

Compatibility: iPhone

Price: $19.99

Xprompt Multilingual Assistance is a translation tool to enable physicians and medical staff to communicate with their patients in situations where a translator is not present or a family member is unable to translate. The mobile app comes pre-installed in German, English, and Spanish. Features offered include gestures, supporting communication, a general dictionary, and more. Health professionals can favorite phrases. Translations are shown and spoken through the iPhone audio. Two sign languages in German and British are offered in video format.

Compatibility: iPhone

Price: $3.99 with three languages pre-installed. Additional $2.99 per language (22 languages available, 50 more languages in the works)

For the OB-GYN

Airstrip OB is essentially a mobile health monitoring system. More specifically it is a portable ICU monitor that tracks the mother-to-be and fetus's waveform data which includes heart rate, temperature, blood pressure, maternal contraction patterns, and any other vital signs all in real time during a woman's labor. Information is transferred from the hospital monitoring system to the obstetrician and gynecologist's and nurse's mobile phones. This allows the OB-GYN and nurses to remotely keep an eye on the mother-to-be anywhere and anytime. Other information that's provided in the medical mobile app includes the woman's documentation like current medication, allergies, lab work, and notes. Personal information is not stored so the patient's identity is safe. This mobile app is FDA-approved and compliant with HIPAA standards.

Compatible: iPhone, Blackberry, and Windows Mobile Smart Phones

Price: Free, but the hospital at which the doctor is employed must purchase the Airstrip OB System

Smarter Ways to Build Smartphone Applications

Mobile applications have become popular among various users. There are apps for preparing bar exams, checking heartbeat (used as stethoscope), prepare recipes, guide you on tour, etc. There are also business apps like CRM, ERP and BI solutions used for sales and business level of people. Among the usage and popularity of these apps iPhone & iPad comes first in the list, where android apps market has competed with the equal amount, but it comes second for Business apps. Windows mobile apps comes third.

Many of the companies and individuals have developed variety of free and paid apps. There are also expensive iPhone apps of cost $1000. But are the developers or developing companies taking right decision to develop these applications. The complexities of the apps vary from simple calculator app (which takes a day) to an enterprise ERP or BI app (which may take months to build). But most of the app developers follow the traditional way of developing these applications for iPhone, iPad or android.

Most of the companies are focusing only on native apps, which can be made easier in different ways. Developing an iPhone app in xcode is the traditional way of developing the iPhone or iPad applications. There are also frameworks available like Rhodes and Titanium, which makes the work easier for many of the apps. These frameworks have been developed to create the native iPhone, iPad, android or windows apps, with only single level of coding. These frameworks works with commonly known and easier languages like Ruby and Python. The developer who is familiar with these languages and interested in developing Smartphone applications doesn't need to start with objective-C or Java. It is enough for him to know how these frameworks works. Also these are open source frameworks available for free.

We have seen the advantages of using the frameworks to develop multi platform mobile apps above. These frameworks also have its limits on certain cases of performance. It's the developer who need to analyze the complexity and performance to be addressed for the app he is going to develop. If the apps' functionality is going to be simple and involves lot of coding when using native SDK he can prefer the frameworks to build the app, which takes lesser time to develop. Or if the app really needs to be addressed on performance and other issues, which is very well supported by native SDK, he can go with it. So any app developers should be able to adapt him dynamically in choosing the way to build an app. There are only few iPhone development companies in India, who also works on multi-platform frameworks like Rhodes & Titanium to build the apps in lesser time and can adapt them based on the complexity of apps. Adapt the smarter way to build the smart apps.

Contact us for more information: contactus@innoppl.com

Android Apps Development - Possibilities Are Unlimited!

Achieve Perfection in Android Apps

The market of Google's Android OS has remarkably increased in size and persuaded almost all major brands to launch their version of Android Smartphone. Since this OS came into users' hands, it has become one of the most popular platforms; a pocket-to-fit-PC whose performance is never less than what a laptop or desktop does. Certain features; such as low application development cost, quickly growing platform, support to interactive media features, support to Java and Flash, support to most of the graphics & media formats and tools, and availability of SDK, helping developers and programmers in structuring rich and unique apps, have made Android the second to none OS globally.We can surmise the popularity of Android OS by the fact that more than 500,000 apps are downloaded every day and in the first quarter of 2011, it exceeded iOS as well. Considering this, businesses, corporate, NGOs, news & entertainment channels, educational bodies, and even government departments are getting Android apps developed to increase the horizon of their services.

When it comes to Android application development, the obligatory things are knowledge and talent, working on plans and implementing them into reality. Now, powerful mobile applications can quickly be developed and easily be provided to users. Being an open source platform, developers can develop and customize the operating system level apps at affordable charges. Here, I am going to give you information about the elements supported by Android software development: This Operating system supports most of the formats of audio, video, and image including MP3, AAC MIDI and WAV (audio); MPEG-4, H.264 and H.263 (video); JPG, GIF, PNG, and BMP (image).(By certain third party apps, the support to audio, video and image can by enhanced to other formats too) Android can also provide support to a wide range of graphic libraries such as 3D graphic and 2-D graphics. 2-D graphic helps in static application, animation and interactive games. Including 2D, the OS also supports high performance 3D graphics with the Open Graphic Library (OpenGL); a cross platform graphics API, specifying standard software interface for 3D graphics processing hardware.

It supports different date receiving and sending technologies such as EDGE, EV-DO, GSM, 3G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and UMTS. The latest version of Android OS does support 4G as well.

This operating system is fully compatible with touch screens (both resistive and capacitive), accelerometer, video camera, GPS, magnetometer, and P2P (peer-to-peer) date sharing and distribution. It supports four main concepts of Android apps development: Activities, Broadcast receiver, Services and Content provider.When developed by an expert company, such as Rapidsoft Technologies, Android App can deliver remarkable growth in your business. All you need is to hire a professional Android apps developer.

Best Apps For IPhone 4

So, the iPhone 4 has been out for a couple of weeks now and one of its main features is the 'Retina Display'. Basically, a super clear screen which is great for videos, games, YouTube etc.

The first wave of developers are starting to release the apps which are really going to demonstrate how much better this screen is than on iPhone 3GS and older models.

Asides from the increased portability, slicker design and multi-task capabilities of the iPhone 4, the retina display screen is the real 'wow' factor when you show it off to friends and colleagues. So you need to load it up with some sweet apps to make them drool at the crystal clear screen:

1. Paper Toss

So simple, so addictive. This game has been around for years and as of a few days ago was given a complete overhaul by BackFlip studios to 'sexify it' for the iPhone 4. The results have to be seen to be believed and I don't think the screen shots really do it justice. It instantly made it one of the best looking apps on my iPhone.

2. Arounder

Looking for potential holiday destinations? Maybe you got drunk in Milan and didn't get around to any actual sightseeing? Well, Arounder is a cool app that lets you take 360 degree tours of hundreds of destinations from around the globe. From a deserted beach in Tahiti to the Sydney Opera House, this app delivers you some beautiful landmarks and scenery in crystal clear resolution on your iPhone 4.

3. Let's Golf

Let's Golf is one of the top downloaded sports apps and has never looked so clear in all its cartoonish glory than on the iPhone 4. Although the developers have not released an official update, it still looks fantastic on the iPhone 4 retina display.

4. Sim City

Memories of Sim City on the SNES or Sim City 3000 will come flooding back with this full version of Sim City on your iPhone. Very playable and perfectly scaled down with graphics given a decent boost by the iPhone 4, its one of the first apps your friends will want to see in action when you are showing off your new phone.

5. iMovie

For all the Mac users out there familiar with iMovie, it's time to get excited because Apple's flagship app has been re designed specifically for the iPhone OS4 operating system and maintains much of its functionality in the new portable format. The iPhone 4 can record in up to 720p definition so with a bit of editing for iMovie, you really can produce some great looking movies.

We expect that a lot of apps are currently undergoing a visual overhaul as we speak and in the first couple of weeks we already have some stunning looking apps. We anticipate as developers become more comfortable with the OS4 operating system, the best iPhone 4 apps are yet to come. But for now, download the above apps and bask in their visual beauty. (And make some friends jealous along the way).

Writing Apps for Android or iPhone

OK. So you've heard all about Apps for Mobile devices. And you've heard of all the millions that some App developers have earned by creating utilities, games, or tools. Which platform should you build it on? And why?

According to a survey, around 90% of the mobile App sales are attributed to iPhone Apps. The total amount spent on Apps comes to about US$4.2 billion in 2009, comprising about 2.5billion App downloads for that year. As smartphones and related devices grow in popularity, the Apple market domination is expected to be challenged by Android Apps.

There are 100 million Android mobile devices activated worldwide, 400,000 new devices activated each day. The explosive growth means that the estimated 200,000 Android apps at present is likely to overtake the number of iPhone Apps eventually. Other App stores are also available: Motion's App World for Blackberry devices, Nokia's Ovi Store and Microsoft's Windows Phone Marketplace.

iPhone Apps Platform

If you're an iPhone-aholic, here are some reasons for developing iPhone Apps:

1. You only need to cater for specific, limited number of devices - the iPhone, or iPad. There is not a plethora of different types of phones and screen sizes to cater for. So you needn't test your Apps on a multitude of different devices.

2. The free iPhone Software Development Kit (SDK) makes it easy to do development work. The development can be done using Objective-C.

3. The App Store - You get to list your Apps on it, and Apple takes care of hosting, credit-card processing, downloading, and notifying users of updates. Apple also reviews and filters out Apps for inclusion, which means you need to make sure your App is of good quality before it can be accepted and launched.

Android Apps and Other Platforms

On the other hand, there are compelling reasons for developing on other platforms such as Android too:

1. Platforms such as Android are an open-source, Linux-based platform. This means anyone can access the code that drives the system. You can explore the operating system itself and its APIs. Hence there is no censorship for your App by any specific device manufacturing or service provider.

2. Development for Android is done using Java, which is is a powerful and widely-used language.

3. Some developers find it easier to get their Apps approved on the Android Market, since there is no lengthy approval process involved.

Whichever platform you choose, if you are you excited by the revenue-generating possibilities, then you should seriously consider developing Apps. How do you go about getting started? Well, that's a topic for another Article.

How to Make a Mobile Phone App

The smart phone industry is booming. One in two Americans owns one and it's popularity is growing exponentially, as is the tablet market's. Since the introduction of the iPad in 2010, Apple has sold over 25 million units. Mobile devices have become essential parts of lives and are constantly in use for different tasks. There are differences in what they are used for in distinct parts of the world, in Japan browsing is more common, whilst in the USA people tend to text more and play a lot of games on them, however apps are equally popular worldwide.

Software applications were originally intended for productivity, such as checking emails, the weather, GPS etc., however due to demand both their number and the variety of functions rose, now there are about 500 000 apps available for iOS based devices alone. The most commonly used platforms are iOS (Apple), Blackberry, Android, Windows, Amazon and Ovi (Nokia), these all have their own specifically designed apps.

Since the introduction of applications, the online market has fundamentally changed. Having a business online doesn't just mean that there's a website that can be promoted or found through search engines. It is a huge advantage if a business or brand appears in tools consumers use on a daily basis.

Making an app

Creating an app is relatively simple and doesn't consume a lot of time or money either; after it has been sprung to life there's a monthly fee that has to be paid for hosting, the price of this can range from about $10 to $100, but considering the price of other forms of advertisement, it can be called a bargain. Apps for apple are probably the easiest to create, but Blackberry and Android are close behind.

Making an application is the easiest through websites designated to host apps, there's a wide selection to choose from, a few of the most commonly used:

- Swebapps

- App breader

- Kanchoo

- BuildAnApp

- My App Creator

Key steps

The process of creating of an app can be summed up in three steps:

1. Sign up to one of these websites and create an account. This usually doesn't involve a fee, but can differ depending on the website.

2. Build the actual app. Each site has a different setup, but all of them offer a wide range of App-gadgets and opportunities for customization. Although seeking the help of a graphic designer requires a larger investment, it can greatly improve the final result.

3. The final step is when the application gets published in the appstore, after this it will be available for downloading.

This is the way to simple apps are created, more complex applications require both designers and developers, these run on fairly larger budgets.

Apps are still new to the public, it is important to realize the importance of them, which comes mainly from their popularity, this can be turned to the advantage of brands and businesses.

Seven Free Android Apps For Small Business Owners

Running a small business is never easy. There are network contacts to manage, meetings to attend, and expenses to track. Small business owners often wear many hats and perform multiple tasks in order to operate a business on a daily basis. Fortunately, there are ways to make these tasks simpler and the smartphone is a perfect device to get the job done. Many free applications are available for the Android phone that are designed to make life easier for anyone who manages or operates a business.

CamCard Lite - This free version of the highly rated CamCard app that makes it easy to share and save business cards in one location. It is the epitome of a digital rolodex. Business cards are captured through the phone camera and the contact data is saved in the phone address book and are searchable, making it easy to organize and find the right contact for your business needs. The lite version allows users to capture 10 cards during the first week and then 2 cards per week after that. For heavy networkers who are collecting many cards per week, there is the full upgrade for $11.99 with no limitations.

Google Voice - Google Voice has transformed the way many use and manage their communications. With one Google Voice number, you can forward your calls to all your numbers including your cell phone, land line and business office number. Voicemails are transcribed and can be sent via email or text. The service also lets you make free calls and text messages within the United States and Canada both from your phone and your desktop computer. International calls are much cheaper than the traditional counterparts.

Barcode Scanner - Although not specifically a business app, Barcode Scanner allows you to scan product barcodes and QR codes on the fly. From QR codes, you can save contact information, calendar events, text messages and URLs and show the information on a map. You can also create your own QR codes to share with colleagues who can scan them directly from your phone.

Bump - This novelty info sharing application lets you share data or contact information with someone else's phone with a fist bump. By selecting the item you want to share, simply hold your phone and gently tap your fist with another Bump user.

PDANet - Have you ever been out to a meeting with a client only to discover that your internet connection was bad or non-existent? PDANet comes in handy during these situations. This app is a great utility that lets you share the internet connection from your phone with your computer without having to have root access on your phone. Your connection speed with be the same as that of your phone's.

CamScanner - This useful app turns your phone into a document scanner. Save business expense receipts or capture the whiteboard notes in your office to reference while on the go. CamScanner allows you to scan multi page documents and do batch processing. Scanned files are converted to PDF format and can be shared through 3rd party services like Dropbox or Google Docs.

Astro File Manager - This app is a multi purpose tool for managing all your files on your Android. It lets you copy, rename, move, delete and send file attachments through email with ease. You can also extract zipped or tarred file. In additions, this app monitors your memory and CPU usage, allows you to see what processes are running and lets you backup your files and applications to a memory card.

In this age of mobile devices, the smartphone has become the small business owner's best friend. As the Android application development market continues to grow, more advanced tools will be at our fingertips and continue the way people do business.

Android Application Developers: Watch Android Improve and Expand

Almost half a decade ago, my friend and I thought about a technology that would simply connect each device of our house and would be easily controlled by us. Seeing the fast-paced technology advancement, we were amazed to think of the concept that helped every electronic device function with the help of a single remote control. To our imagination the technology would set a fridge temperature with a remote, get our geyser working, and perform even the most complicated things with just a tick.

Android's new utilitarian concept

It's a dream come true. Android brought the power of centralization to life. This technology functions with the support of a user's smart phone that acts as a remote to control household devices working through Wi-Fi. This smart phone will act as a portal to other device from where all devices can be put to work together, seamlessly. Further, users can gain access to any type of information from anywhere in the house. However, does this step mean a low concentration on a smart phone market?

No. According to Google, It is setting up a utilitarian market to offer better choices to its users. After their benchmark in the smart phone industry, they are concentrating on something better and bigger without compromising on the existing set up. That it is an entertainment industry and they believe in offering choices to their customers and the best out of the technology.

Google's move to create a technology dependent ecosystem is on the verge of creating history. This development will be one of the most important and utilitarian steps taken by Android enabling creative people, the content creators and developers to enjoy the open market and liberty of transmuting fantasies into reality.

Google believed in an open development environment. It also confirmed that it is not fragmenting, but expanding the Android application development market. This expansion would definitely bring a change in the way we perceive technology. It will be soon embedded in our daily living.

Strategy for improvements offshore Android software development, India

Google's turning utilitarian is definitely taking no toll on its smart phone market. From position two, Google takes the concept of uniformity seriously for all its smart phone application. After years of criticism for its substandard user interface, Google decides to help Android look, feel and perform as smoothly as possible considering its open nature.

As a remedy to the messy application development, Android recently launched a design portal. The portal includes an extensive guide that features best UI practices that Android app developers should follow while building apps. The guide would streamline the Android application development process through its comprehensive information on style guidelines, design patterns and building blocks that are part of Android's default UI.

The difficulties for development due to tools will also be solved as improved tools are on the way. Unlike Apple, Android, till now, dealt with cluttered development as there was no rule for standard UI's for improved user experience.

2012 is about to bring the best development and could be a yet another year of a complete technology shift across the world. With an estimable start,Android apps development is surely to contribute to the drastic change for its consumers. Of course, the change is for better!