In a time of recession, many businesses are seeing profits drastically drop and subsequently doors close. However, Apple has made it clear that they have developed a product that seems to be almost unaffected by the turn in the economy.
Apple has recorded over 1.5 billion iPhone and iPod Touch application downloads. It’s impressive to think that in just 18 months since they launched their App Store, they have already reached this astonishing number. Congratulations, Steve Job. You have restored hope in the U.S. economy that things may not be as bad as we think. Or, you may have just confirmed that Americans know what their priorities are – and the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch are two of them.
Pricing and Overview
While the Apple iPhone isn’t cheap (prices start at $199 for a new iPhone and $99 for a refurbished iPhone with a two-year contract with AT&T), it seems to be paving the way as the must have mobile device. Apple and their very successful iPhone allow thousands of applications to be downloaded that make it possible to do just about anything at the ease of your fingertips: from receiving restaurant recommendations matching your likes, to placing an online order, to getting driving directions.
Top iPhone & iTouch Apps
Some of Apple’s most downloaded applications include Koi Pond which simulates a virtual fish tank, iBeer which simulates the look of a glass of beer, and Pocket Guitar which turns your iPhone or iPod Touch into a virtual guitar. Most of the apps range in price from free to $1.99. It’s never been more affordable to learn, be entertained, or do anything with a mobile device.
Developing Apps
While not all apps created have been well received – Apple recently withdrew an app that invited users to shake a baby to stop it crying – the company is very responsive to ensuring that the message and functionality of the apps are positive. There is a lucrative business in developing applications for the App Store. More than 140,000 apps have been developed by individuals and teams around the world and the number of apps seems to be growing exponentially. This is just one more platform and channel for businesses to reach consumers in a culture that is growing more mobile by the day.
Where Apple and the App Store go from here can only be determined by the limit of the sky. Apple has unlocked and introduced the remarkable capabilities of what a mobile device can achieve and do. To a billion and beyond, Apple has only begun its unprecedented mark in mobile technology.
Diana Braun - I am a freelance writer with 4+ years of writing experience focusing on technology. I am well versed in the information technology ...
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