Release Notes

This week we talk about the extended downtime that the iOS and Mac developer portals have experienced. We discuss the security breach that caused it, Apple’s response, and whether it was sufficient. Then we use Apple’s woes as an excuse to reflect on our own security, including backup schemes, passwords, and two-factor authentication. Show Notes […]

In this episode we talk about the advantages and disadvantages of integrating third party services and code into your app. We consider why you might want to rely on others, the risks in doing so, and our experiences integrating third party services into our software. We close with a discussion of open source software, and […]

Developers and Designers need each other, but how do you find a good partner to work with? In this episode we look at how indies can find a good designer, how they can recognize a good one when they find one, and what each side should expect from the relationship. Joe (a designer) and Charles […]

On this, the fifth anniversary of Apple’s launch of the App Store, we consider the the current state of affairs for businesses that rely on it for distribution. We react to recent reports of downsizing, look at what monetization strategies are working and which aren’t, and consider how Apple’s App Store policies have shaped the […]

This week we’re talking about product launches and how to get the most attention possible for your new apps. We start off with a discussion about generating pre-launch buzz around your app, and making effective use of your mailing list. Then we talk about gaining the media’s attention, and what sorts of information should be […]

Charles and Joe return from WWDC to discuss the iOS 7 announcement and its impact on your app business. We talk timeframes, prioritizing your work in the lead-up to release, and the importance of having your apps ready for iOS 7 on day one. Then discussion turns to designing for iOS 7 and making your […]

This week, a reader question prompts us to talk about whether or not “branching out” into new fields, new talents, is worthwhile for indie developers. Can you afford to spend time working on new skills when you barely have enough time to finish your current tasks? Can you afford to stand still as technologies change? […]

In this episode we discuss ways to foster communications with customers — both current and potential. We talk about social media, message boards, mailing lists and why it’s important to be conspicuously active on these channels. We consider ways to approach new customers, and Joe explains why you need to be your own best product […]

With so many people attending WWDC for the first time this year, we thought it might be fun to share our version of a “WWDC First-timer’s Guide.” In this episode, Joe shares his local knowledge of San Francisco and particularly the area surrounding the Moscone Center. We tell you what to wear, where to go, […]

In this episode, we share our own stories of going indie and consider whether it’s better to gradually transition to indie development or to just jump in head first. We talk about the importance of saving money while you can, developing a business plan, choosing a pricing model, and the “magazine rule” for properly sizing […]