Looking for a DEV who would like to create a forum App - Android Software Development

The forum in question is Honda-tech.com. A honda enthusiast forum (the largest of its kind). Lots and lots of users on there who would love to access the site through an app and benefit from not having to go through their mobile browsers. A large diversity of iOS and Android users as well.
The topic of an app has been discussed on the forum plenty of times but no one has taken the initiative to actually look into getting one made. I though I would post on the dev site(s) to see if anyone would like to create an app. I am somewhat adept at the Android OS but not so much as far as app dev goes. I have no clue as to how hard this task would be, however if anyone is interested in creating something like this please let me know and maybe we can get this ball rolling.
Also, tapatalk has been discussed but an app is preferred.
Thanks guys.

problem solved

I'm planning on attempting to make a forum app for bungie.net once done shouldn't be hard to adapt to other forums.
Won't be as fast as tapatalk bc I assume they use a custom spy, y they need form support. Could be wrong. Tapatalk is a nice app.

I made a site a while ago that basically works the same way as tapatalk, but with more functionality so it would function like an app you launched through your browser. You can filter out images, specific people, set the OP to be in a separate column, and more. Since it was a website it used cURL so the initial load was rather slow but it also caches all of the pages locally and on the server so load times were pretty minimal after the first grab. It doesn't require any modification on the forum's end but it only reads vBulletin as of now (it could probably be adapted though). I haven't checked, but it should work for any mobile device with a decent browser (Android, iOS, Opera Mobile 10+) and it could possibly be made into an app. This was part of a large project I was working on but got burnt out on so I am not sure what all needs to be finished. PM me if that is interesting.

I would love to see an example of this, it doesnt have to be made into an app, if it functions in browser would be good enough. Porting over to an app would require alot of work, tho the logic would be helpful.

+1 for honda tech app...
Make one for socalcivic.com also..
Ep3

Would love to see a forum app for http://ubuntuforums.org/ also, so would a lot of other people:
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1513906

Related

XDA-DEV APP STORE -Discussion

Ok... I know I'm not one of the elite here, but I've been a PPC Admin creating custom ROMs with kitchens for a number of devices for the last 4-5 years. I love this site and everyone here has done an excellent job developing for our devices, but its time we organize this site to make it easy for noobs to get involved in our world. The big problem I see when I try to help people get into WinMo is that its really hard for them to find the right apps and previews of what is possible to do. The biggest complaint I have from friends who use this site is that there are often different threads for the same app and often they download the older version by mistake. I also see what happens to developers like A_C who have their apps ripped off and sold as a "bundle of freeware apps". Its wrong and I'd hate to see him or any of the other developers not get credit for their hard work.
So here is what I'm proposing... Why don't we create an app store right here where free and for pay apps can conveniently and easily be searched and organized. We could even setup rss feeds for the different applications so people could be notified when a new version or even a update to the thread has occurred. I know Microsoft is coming out with their app store, but come on. when have they gotten anything right for a community at this level of capability right at the start?
Either way.. I think it would be a great idea for us to build this and expand the Win Mo community. Thanks everyone for your hard work.
Feel free to comment.
Using RSS from a new sub-forum that XDA could setup would allow a dev to pull the threads and information. If they're formatted properly before submitted to the App Store forum, the first post in the thread could be App's description and preview including any youtube previews. The second post would have the cab file.
There would also be a string of text in the first post which would define device compatibilities so Raphael users don't try and download Kaiser specific software and vice-versa
A pre-approval process would take place in a seperate forum and PPC veterans and forum senior members could assist in evaluating the posts as well as the software?
I see a more community based solution in this idea. Very nice. BUT.. will it happen? I'm no longer in the programming side of the biz, but if someone could come up with an app that would take the RSS from a forum, I could setup a test forum on a site I run just for proof of concept. Anyone interested?
Sounds like a great idea! I think a forum isnt the best solution for the matter but at least there would be some kind of order...
(App2Date support for more programs would be helpful then as well)
I only say forum because this database is already in place, easily tweaked (I run a few vBulletin sites so I know how easy it can be) and the authors can update their applications easily without having to reinvent the wheel from the ground up. With the proper required fields we could easily organize everything nicely
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=488610
okay that sounds better.. im not experimenting with forums much
is is possible to filter things then? i cant really picture it
when i look for an app i always download all available of a kind (e.g. 5 minesweeper) and in the end not even 1 works ^^
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=480476
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=436127
why not have 3 more...
i think before u can update ur apps u first need 2 download them... and in order to do that u need to find them first and thats what this thread is mainly about
have u ever heard about apple app store? its not about selling devices whatsoever but to FIND SOFTWARE (easily)
Yep, there are a few being built already, but maybe a more "Official" one would get more development and community support?
Here's another one too: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=471576
I'd really like to see one of these Appstore ideas to also track UI customizations. I can't tell you the number of hours I've spent reading through hundreds of posts to find the perfect SPB Mobile Shell UI... lol.
I have tried all of the above mentioned 'portals' and I use DeviceUpdate, but it's the same 97 or 98 apps! This would be a direct tie-in to this site. Developers could submit their apps to the community for approval and they'd be moved into the proper section of the app 'vault' and would instantly be available in the Mobile Application which would generate its list via a direct RSS of the App Vault forum..
Why create a new database and userbase when XDA's is already so huge?
I second, third and forth this request. XDA dev's deserve a store for app releases and use the forum as a dev/feedback forum.. Vbulletin can only do so much... If revenue sharing is the major hurdle I would hope the webmaster can work out an agreement with the devs who want to submit apps. Another hurdle could potentially be copyright infringements.. Unofficial ROM's and other promoted/sold "clone-apps" could bring unwanted publicity to the site. This simple chaotic forum might be the perfect element to keep XDA under the corporate radar and safe from hungry lawyers.
norkoastal said:
I second, third and forth this request. XDA dev's deserve a store for app releases and use the forum as a dev/feedback forum.. Vbulletin can only do so much... If revenue sharing is the major hurdle I would hope the webmaster can work out an agreement with the devs who want to submit apps. Another hurdle could potentially be copyright infringements.. Unofficial ROM's and other promoted/sold "clone-apps" could bring unwanted publicity to the site. This simple chaotic forum might be the perfect element to keep XDA under the corporate radar and safe from hungry lawyers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I disagree that 'vbulletin can only do so much'.. XDA-Developers.com even uses a basic 'stock' theme.. this site isn't customized very much and is a very basic implementation of the software. An app on the phones that pull the information from a sub forum of this site could load up previews, videos and the download links. If you want to add in 'dontation' links, that's also possible, but I think that's better left to PCs.
I agree that staying 'under the radar' is essential, but being able to access all of the software that can greatly improve your device from anywhere at a moments notice is key... I'm currently browsing to a forum on my phone to get a piece of software and it's taking at least 3 minutes to do it when I can get there in less than 10 seconds on the PC.. put this stuff in an app and I won't even need the PC other than to find the dev and discussion threads....
I see vBulletin in a different light from just a chat enabler.. but it might be because I know the back end so well.
l3it3r said:
I disagree that 'vbulletin can only do so much'.. XDA-Developers.com even uses a basic 'stock' theme.. this site isn't customized very much and is a very basic implementation of the software. An app on the phones that pull the information from a sub forum of this site could load up previews, videos and the download links. If you want to add in 'dontation' links, that's also possible, but I think that's better left to PCs.
I agree that staying 'under the radar' is essential, but being able to access all of the software that can greatly improve your device from anywhere at a moments notice is key... I'm currently browsing to a forum on my phone to get a piece of software and it's taking at least 3 minutes to do it when I can get there in less than 10 seconds on the PC.. put this stuff in an app and I won't even need the PC other than to find the dev and discussion threads....
I see vBulletin in a different light from just a chat enabler.. but it might be because I know the back end so well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All valid points, but if the webmaster has no desire to expand this sites complexity, who are we to say add this n that when we are typing on a yellow/brown forum with minimal VB enhancements (no knock to XDA ).
What I see working is XDA allow a spin-off site which is the visual/functional app paradise we all crave.. The alter ego of Cydia and the evil empire. All discussion/dev related questions feed to their respective XDA threads. XDA mods can then port the data to XDA-apps when they feel the release is deemed safe. Developers who want more press/ad exposure pony up $$, and can then charge for more fully functioning software... I dont think anyone doesn't want an app store, its will you get official XDA muscle behind it?
There's a way to charge for threads, so if people want to sell the apps, they need to buy a premium spot for it on the XDA App listing.. *boom!* XDA is interested!
If a spin-off site is required, then that's cool, I'd be really interested in assisting with it. It would be possible to use the same user database.
Thanks everyone for opening feedback on this topic. I think we should look further into finding a way to make this happen. Any volunteers? l3it3r and Norkoastal have done a good job in taking the lead on this so far. How do you feel about making it happen Norkoastal andl3it3r's?
I would recommend getting some official support from XDA before beginning to compile resources for this effort. I really think there should be input from the owner/mods here who want to see this happen, & also get their take on maintaining the upkeep of this proposed rollout. I would be glad to throw my two pesos in, but wouldn't want to step on any toes or other efforts already in process, namely gecko..
I will be releasing a new more complete version of this very soon. Its a freewarepocketpc.net client working off the existing database online.
That's sweet! I use fwppc all the time because it's easy to navigate on the phone. I still think that XDA is the #1 name in Windows mobile development and that we could truly shine, but what if we were able to come up with a publicly agreed standard for thread creation down to the descriptions and layouts. Could you tie in an RSS feed from an XDA forum into that?
That's exactly what I was thinking l3it3r. A standardization for this site that is just setup for apps. If rss feeds were tied into it anyone could build an app that could go out and find the latest updates for their subscribed applications. Noobs wouldn't know about the applications used for downloading apps, but would know generally how to view a web forum. Its all about making it easier for the noobs to get interested in exploring the capabilities of WM and not to intimidate them. A good standardization of the layout would go a long way to expanding the user base and increase interest in our work.
What do you guys think?
With all things considered, I think it is better if this is done as a separate site as Napbree has done for finger friendly apps (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=380748).
So if any legal issues should arise or site adjustments/enhancements that needs to be made, it can be dealt independently from XDA. This also can bring apps from other places into attention that isn't developed within XDA.

[Q] What happened to threads like WP7 for Android?

Hey I am a longtime fan of XDA, it has been a cornerstone of the phone hacking and app development scene for years. I was looking through the threads and noticed an app development program that had been picking up steam and even released a private beta was closed. This thread if anyone was wonder is the WP7 Android suite by TheRedDrake. It seems as though there was some strife with the mods and they have moved off site to "wp7android.com". I was wondering what caused this and why an app development cycle that was making headway towards a market release got banned? I hope someone can explain this to me because I think if there is some policy against projects like this why does this forum exist if not to mod and release apps that we can all enjoy? I don’t want to incite any anger, I am just genuinely curious about what happened and why.
The answer to your question can be found in the last post of the thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=13290726&postcount=930
The developers have no intention of providing the passwords or removing them, so the project has moved off of XDA and is now entirely maintained on their website, wp7android.com. From what I know, the thread had been closed and re-opened at least once before as well.
bear831 said:
Hey I am a longtime fan of XDA, it has been a cornerstone of the phone hacking and app development scene for years. I was looking through the threads and noticed an app development program that had been picking up steam and even released a private beta was closed. This thread if anyone was wonder is the WP7 Android suite by TheRedDrake. It seems as though there was some strife with the mods and they have moved off site to "wp7android.com". I was wondering what caused this and why an app development cycle that was making headway towards a market release got banned? I hope someone can explain this to me because I think if there is some policy against projects like this why does this forum exist if not to mod and release apps that we can all enjoy? I don’t want to incite any anger, I am just genuinely curious about what happened and why.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its simple, they were violating forum rules. Its unfortunately, but the expectations for developer threads have been very clearly hashed out by the Admins of this site, and TheRedDrake didn't abide by them, and instead tried to use a loophole. Fortunately they managed to get a different site, because project is a cool one, but they should have just opened their own site in the first place since they knew they had no intentions of abiding the rules.
Seems cool but it was definitely the right move. If they p/w protect rar's guess they wanna charge? Not sure how many Android heads are going to pay for win7 to replace a better OS (IMO) with more programs, especially when there's a great launcher that's customizable and spot on to 7. Maybe a dual boot but not for this guy. I can't remember what that launcher is called but it looked nice if I didn't love Android so I'd have dl'ed it ^_^ goog " window phone 7 Android launcher " I'm sure it was here on xda (free-donate if u like it), if it sounds like something you'd like. Cheers
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
dubyajaysmith said:
Seems cool but it was definitely the right move. If they p/w protect rar's guess they wanna charge? Not sure how many Android heads are going to pay for win7 to replace a better OS (IMO) with more programs, especially when there's a great launcher that's customizable and spot on to 7. Maybe a dual boot but not for this guy. I can't remember what that launcher is called but it looked nice if I didn't love Android so I'd have dl'ed it ^_^ goog " window phone 7 Android launcher " I'm sure it was here on xda (free-donate if u like it), if it sounds like something you'd like. Cheers
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be fair, their project was a hell of a lot more than a launcher. They basically built an Android equivalent to WP7 from scratch, including the Zune player.
WP7Android project is one of the best projects. As it is aiming to change the whole UI of android to WP7, not just the UI. They are also working on apps for the gallery, mail, dialer, camera, browser.. and more than i can't remember right now. It's going to be a big project!
The project has been moved from XDA to the WP7Android forum. You can check out their website where they have all the details about this project, you can also donate if you want to get access to all the beta apps. www.wp7android.com
I donated to TheRedDrake at the start of this project, and i have no comments on all the apps they provide, they are really great (Considering they are still in Beta stage..) also, donating helps the devs and keeps the project alive, and keeps the process of it going along the way.
http://twitter.com/#!/TheRedDrake
Donations that were made for this project made it possible and made it exist. Not free apps or lite versions. There are already versions of other WP7 styled apps not part of this project that have as much features as a lite version. I understand the devs not wanting to waste their time on making lite versions.
As i have read, the three apps that TheRedDrake wanted to make them free, will not be free anymore, and this is because the mods of XDA closed the thread of this project..
ms7p said:
WP7Android project is one of the best projects. As it is aiming to change the whole UI of android to WP7, not just the UI. They are also working on apps for the gallery, mail, dialer, camera, browser.. and more than i can't remember right now. It's going to be a big project!
The project has been moved from XDA to the WP7Android forum. You can check out their website where they have all the details about this project, you can also donate if you want to get access to all the beta apps. www.wp7android.com
I donated to TheRedDrake at the start of this project, and i have no comments on all the apps they provide, they are really great (Considering they are still in Beta stage..) also, donating helps the devs and keeps the project alive, and keeps the process of it going along the way.
http://twitter.com/#!/TheRedDrake
Donations that were made for this project made it possible and made it exist. Not free apps or lite versions. There are already versions of other WP7 styled apps not part of this project that have as much features as a lite version. I understand the devs not wanting to waste their time on making lite versions.
As i have read, the three apps that TheRedDrake wanted to make them free, will not be free anymore, and this is because the mods of XDA closed the thread of this project..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice to see someone is supporting me. People like him bring my project to life
Well since the original topic was closed I have to explain here somethings:
Q: Why do you password protect the rar files?
A: I said that only contributors are allowed. If you help this project in some useful way I will grant access. This means everybody could enter if they helped.
Q:Why don't you post free apps? .....or lite versions?
A:For first question go to previous Q&A, for second it goes like this: we won't spend time making any sort of lite versions. There are already apps in the market by other developers not involved in the project that have the same amount of features as a lite version.
Q:Why don't you obey the XDA forums rules like all devs do?
A:I do obey them but putting the apps for free just because of that ain't going to do. As I already said if you help you can get them for free.
Q:You know people get frustrated by your policy. Many devs offer apps for free. What do you say about that?
A: True they do. But many devs don't offer their work for free. Not all in this world is for free and most quality software is paid. You should realize that.
Q:Are you still going to release 3 apps for free for XDA users?
A:No, maybe for our forum users 1-2 apps.
Q:Have you any intention of trying to reopen the thread?
A:No, it has been moved to the official site forum at http://www.wp7android.com
Q:Are you in any way upset at the moderators for closing the original thread?
A:Nope, not at all. I understand why they did this. It is their job to make sure XDA forum rules are followed by everybody even if sometimes those rules are nonsense.
Q:There have been similar devs who got kicked from XDA from the same reason. Are you aware of them?
A: Yes Ultralinx is such case. Banned from trying to sell his work. Well he is sympathetic to our cause and offered free advertising on his site. I'm certain he is angry at the XDA mods.
Q:Finaly what do you think of the XDA policy of free apps?
A:Here is one example: SPB Shell beta apk was available here even if it was a closed beta and SPB didn't permit the apk to be freely distributed.The moderators didn't do anythin about it. I will let you judge by yourself this one.
Everyone should definitely join the new forum we just launched . We also started a Facebook fan page the other day . http://www.google.com
There is some absolutely fantastic work being done by everyone . As stated above , this isnt just a launcher . This is going to be the whole enchilada . If you're a fan of the UI , then this project is for you .
We are all very excited to be doing this , and this is NOT something that will be dropped and no longer supported ( like most of the other wp7-like apps ).
We are in it for the long haul . Join us for the ride . We are going to start having prize giveaways , developer blog spots , etc.
One of our devs will be presenting our project at the Happy Go Techy Expo in Seattle.
We still have much work to do , but this is one of the few UI overhauls here at XDA where progress is actually being made and YOU can be a part of it . Thanks to everyone that has already helped and has joined our rapidly growing community .
Don't forget, http://www.google.com/
Join the forums and let us know YOUR thoughts . Thank you .
put you ads somewhere else... hope you get banned from xda for that.
@dubyajaysmith agreed!
As someone who was critical initially, I want to say that I've donated to the project. TheRedDrake has returned personal PMs to him, and I think my concerns have been put at ease.
The last thing I think anyone wants to do is lose good devs in the Android community. After learning some more about the work behind the scenes, I'm definitely supporting this project.
I partially agree with the decision to close the old thread. Yes, it is a bit against the rules, but some other devs are putting non-free non-lite apps here too, and their thread won't get closed. The WP7 team was working hard on the whole stuff, I've been able to take a look at their source, and help them here and there, and I have to say, what they did, is pretty impressive.
The Zune Player is almost ready, the Launcher looks good as it is, functional, works as it should. Everything else is in order, and the whole pack will definitely worth the money they ask for it.
The whole UI is being replaced, and hopefully it will extend to some other applications too (currently the Contacts app is finished, the Zune Player, Messaging, Launcher has work on it AFAIK, and the others are being written too, I have no further info on it though).
I think the mods need to calm down and get over themselves. There are developers who are doing the same thing they accused TheRedDrake of who haven't had their threads taken down. That just makes the mods seem as though they are immature and play favorites to projects they personally like. I love XDA, but when they take unjust actions like I just described, it disappoints me to see them contradict their own definition of a developer community.
TheRedDrake said:
Q:Why don't you post free apps? .....or lite versions?
A:For first question go to previous Q&A, for second it goes like this: we won't spend time making any sort of lite versions. There are already apps in the market by other developers not involved in the project that have the same amount of features as a lite version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So why exactly did you release a lite version of the wp7launcher now in the market?
Glad you did it though...
Launcher7 is way better than this launcher...
Shadewalkerz said:
Launcher7 is way better than this launcher...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You made that determination from a lite version? And how about the zune, email, and dialer apps?
Your last two posts have been awesome .. I'm sure you're third will be just as good. No reason to hate man, move along if you don't like our work .. that's very disrespectful.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
Appear then Disappear
Why was it pulled off the market (lite)? it was there yesterday but now its not...
I did get to try it out though... LWP didn't work for me and there was no add widgets button when I press the menu button on my phone.... personally its just like L7 not to dog the hard work people put into this (I really would like to see how this project turns out) its just an opinion.
Yeah there are Widgets, multiple home screens, live tiles, folders, etc that weren't in the lite version.
We pulled it from the market because in less than 24 hours it was up on the warez (piracy) sites.
We are putting security in place before we put anything back on the market. Good thing it was a really stripped down version
Thanks for the support. We are all spending crazy amounts of time on this.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
lucas.scott said:
Yeah there are Widgets, multiple home screens, live tiles, folders, etc that weren't in the lite version.
We pulled it from the market because in less than 24 hours it was up on the warez (piracy) sites.
We are putting security in place before we put anything back on the market. Good thing it was a really stripped down version
Thanks for the support. We are all spending crazy amounts of time on this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good Call don't want all of the hard work to be wasted on pirates, Could you give an estimate how much It would cost... the whole package meaning
Can't really give that just yet ... we are bouncing around ideas .. bundled prices and stuff. We are working on an aosp rom, that we would like to include everything and be themed and such, just trying to decide what makes sense still.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
We should have the paid apps in the market in one week or less. Cheers!

How to Promote Android Apps?

Hi, I'm a new app developer and I recently published my first app on the android market. Unfortunently I'm not getting any downloads besides those from friends. I've tried posted in app development forums like this one but that did not create an downloads. I also tried running an admob campaign and that did not create any downloads. I've been reading through the forums here and at other sites and it seems people won't download unless you have reviews and other people downloading. If others won't download because no downloads then nobody will download. I would really appreciate any advice. I'm not expecting or hoping for 10000 + downloads but I was hoping for at least 5 downloads since it's been almost 3 weeks now. Thanks for the suggestions.
go to smaller android blogs and ask them to review it. create youtube video and show how it works
This blog post documents my experience in App Marketing
This blog post documents my experience in App Marketing
http://karim-ouda.blogspot.com/2012/05/android-app-marketing-dumping-my.html
Submit your app to http://50bestandroidapps.com/
Submit your app to 50bestandroidapps.com
It's a good web site to get your apps promoted. :fingers-crossed:
the_main_app said:
Hi, I'm a new app developer and I recently published my first app on the android market. Unfortunently I'm not getting any downloads besides those from friends. I've tried posted in app development forums like this one but that did not create an downloads. I also tried running an admob campaign and that did not create any downloads. I've been reading through the forums here and at other sites and it seems people won't download unless you have reviews and other people downloading. If others won't download because no downloads then nobody will download. I would really appreciate any advice. I'm not expecting or hoping for 10000 + downloads but I was hoping for at least 5 downloads since it's been almost 3 weeks now. Thanks for the suggestions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Increase SEO of app..
In app details, enter large no. of keywords related with the app. Also, enter name of other similar popular apps as keyword.
It'll not just increase visibility in built-in search results, but also on external search engines and curators!
I might be able to help?
If you are looking to get your app promoted, I actually own and operate a website called Droid App of the Day, so if you would like a free app review visit my site (I cant post links as am a new member). A google search won't fail you!
the_main_app said:
Hi, I'm a new app developer and I recently published my first app on the android market. Unfortunently I'm not getting any downloads besides those from friends. I've tried posted in app development forums like this one but that did not create an downloads. I also tried running an admob campaign and that did not create any downloads. I've been reading through the forums here and at other sites and it seems people won't download unless you have reviews and other people downloading. If others won't download because no downloads then nobody will download. I would really appreciate any advice. I'm not expecting or hoping for 10000 + downloads but I was hoping for at least 5 downloads since it's been almost 3 weeks now. Thanks for the suggestions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello friend, I have the same problem as you! I also have a new android app, but cannot promote it properly. Could you please, share your experience on promoting your app. It would be interesting not only for me Good luck!
I have wrote this guide for people like me. I have wrote almost everything I tried when I was promoting my app.
http://obscurant1st.biz/blog/how-to-promote-android-app/
obscurant1st said:
I have wrote this guide for people like me. I have wrote almost everything I tried when I was promoting my app.
http://obscurant1st.biz/blog/how-to-promote-android-app/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great article! Thanks for sharing this
Few words about google play app pronotion
Empirically, I determined that a new application has to be seen through search Google play. Search is all that we have without money for a marketing campaign.
Therefore,application should be optimized in the following order:
Application name in google play. This name may be different from the name displayed on the desktop device. The application name contains 30 characters, they should contain the main application keywords.
Description of the application must be clear and also contain keywords.
Attractive icons are very important.
The application must be beautiful and functional. No need to buy a device for $ 300-500 and install an ugly app. People want a beautiful application.
Publication of forums mentioned above.
Well if you don't mind paying for installations try appbrain. It features an option to pay per installation, for a small number of installations you can go as low as 0,20 per installation. They only allow to promote free apps though, and if your income is from ads you will probably not get your money back.
Other options are going to forums and telling the users about your app. Or contact review blogs. Appeggs usally posts good apps, or try app of the day blogs. But make sure your app is ready for the big public or else you might just end up getting bad reviews,
I wrote a little guide on how to promote your apps http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2225125
I wanted to add that the guide that i've been using (a small one) and that lead our team to initially post a thread here on XDA is: http://karim-ouda.blogspot.kr/2012/05/android-app-marketing-dumping-my.html
Interestingly enough, the author of that guide has posted here as well!
So keywords actually do stuff then? I only tried it in one app, I didn't tell anyone I built or released the app. Not even one or two people and admittedly it has had 200 downloads.
I thought it didn't really do anything. Think I have to add keywords to all my apps descs now.
Be careful with keywords: http://droid-blog.net/2011/06/13/how-to-not-get-kicked-out-of-android-market/
This is also interesting: http://droid-blog.net/2011/07/11/four-reasons-why-your-app-wont-be-successful/
And for tips: http://droid-blog.net/category/aso-2/
Ok. It is all from the same blog but I found it very helpful.
Advertising is one option, the other is to advertise your app on various forums, facebook groups. Making youtube video is also a good practice. It avoids you negative reviews as user has already been aware of all app features.
First of all, I want to say that I have no experience in promoting Android apps. But I did some work in promoting websites for businesses, and I can suggest some things.
Key is a having a functional app. If users download an app which is half done and has disabled functions because they aren't done yet, they are going to uninstall it. Second suggestion, a great design is makes a difference for a lot of people whether they're going to install it or not.
When you have both those things, you can get on with actually promoting the app. I would search for an SEO copywriter to get the description for your app. SEO copywriters are specialized in optimizing texts for Google. And I would look into advertising on Facebook. I think you can actually promote your apps, and advertise only on phones. This way your advertisement will only be showed to people who are using Facebook on their phone. User will probably more tempted to install the app.
My app is now having more 1600+ downloads! I am planning to do a major update which might increase the app exposure!
EDIT: I would like everyone to know that I have started a free review service, so if anyone in the process of promoting thier android app, they could consider requesting a free review from me!
the_main_app said:
How to Promote Android Apps?
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Hello to all.
You can promote your apps at Appsorg.com :good:
Appsorg.com - Helps you share and organize your Android apps from around the web.
ps - This is my first post at xda, but this is not a spam )
I really think this site will be very helpfully to all of us
App promotion
Thanks for all the interesting links and posts on app marketing ideas. We're a new app developer & in the same boat.
It seems that App Store Optimisation along with submissions to as many review sites as possible are good starting points. We started looking at pre launch strategies as well focusing on building up some marketing steam.
Check out pre apps. It's a pretty interesting idea. We also submitted to any app dev competitions and as many journalists as we could. Paid reviews are worth a look at as well if you can scrape a few 100 bucks together but make sure the site has traffic
dinamotxt dot com

[Q] Best Step by Step tutorial for app development

Hey guys! I'm new to app development world, I have a good amount of knowledge of c/c++ and learning java right now (I'm an engineering student), and totally interested in making my own app for android, I have made some basic apps, but it would be a real help if I get a good tutorial for bigger apps and also a tutorial for 2-D gaming on this platform for now....thanks in advanced!
I just recommend you to visit http://d.android.com/training it'll introduce you in all the basics and advanced techniques.
Not this buddy....I want a bit simpler tutorial....that one is too vast, I want a tutorial that specifically teaches for one particular type of app, example: making a 2-D game, or building a browser, or a messaging app, etc.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
rulerofthehell said:
Not this buddy....I want a bit simpler tutorial....that one is too vast, I want a tutorial that specifically teaches for one particular type of app, example: making a 2-D game, or building a browser, or a messaging app, etc.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
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I think those topics are a collection of hundreds of patterns, knowledge, implementation and understanding, so better to start simple rather than ....well.... as the saying goes...learn to walk first before you try and pilot a space shuttle
Just a suggestion
Note : there maybe dvd sets that show what you ask, but I would suspect it would be months if not years of learning for a nice grounding in what you will need.
I know basic bro....
deanwray said:
I think those topics are a collection of hundreds of patterns, knowledge, implementation and understanding, so better to start simple rather than ....well.... as the saying goes...learn to walk first before you try and pilot a space shuttle
Just a suggestion
Note : there maybe dvd sets that show what you ask, but I would suspect it would be months if not years of learning for a nice grounding in what you will need.
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I just said I made a few basic apps, I don't wanna sound rude but I have learned to "walk" , just needs a few directions before I start to fly.
rulerofthehell said:
I just said I made a few basic apps, I don't wanna sound rude but I have learned to "walk" , just needs a few directions before I start to fly.
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Sorry was speed reading to just try and offer help... as I said there are lots of resources, but for something like a game, you have mass resources based on the tech/engine you choose (http://stackoverflow.com/questions/17163446/what-is-the-best-2d-game-engine-for-android)... if you choose one of the popular ones there are tonnes of resource. As for building an app, it's just a little ambiguous. A screen that displays a black view fullscreen is an app. I think it's best to evaluate the market see whats missing or can be improved upon and start that way.
BTW I was confused on you saying you wanted simpler than d.android.com/training (which is like the starting point from zero) But I think I get what your asking now
That helps a lot thanks!
deanwray said:
if you choose one of the popular ones there are tonnes of resource. As for building an app, it's just a little ambiguous. A screen that displays a black view fullscreen is an app. I think it's best to evaluate the market see whats missing or can be improved upon and start that way.
BTW I was confused on you saying you wanted simpler than d.android.com/training (which is like the starting point from zero) But I think I get what your asking now
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Thanks man! That helps a lot and if I may ask for more then are there any tutorials for simple multiplayer games....I know I have to set up a server to which a user can connect to,but I don't exactly know how to do that...so a tutorial on it would help
Also tutorials on multiplayer games via Bluetooth connection would be nice
rulerofthehell said:
Thanks man! That helps a lot and if I may ask for more then are there any tutorials for simple multiplayer games....I know I have to set up a server to which a user can connect to,but I don't exactly know how to do that...so a tutorial on it would help
Also tutorials on multiplayer games via Bluetooth connection would be nice
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that I cant help with and would be on par with you in having to google, if I were to speculate then I would assume that lots of the core elements like profile linking, indents, scores/stats and states are/can be handled by the new google play services game stuff... but just have a read on google/android site, cause I would say yes to having a server for MMO games but no if it's either 1 to 1 or not realtime.
btw not many do bluetooth these days, wifi network or wifi direct for local games
I highly recommend "android bootcamp series" (sorry I can't add link, so please write it in google).
This screencasts explain all building blocks in Android in easy way
Check vogella.com, you'll find a bunch of examples. Really helpful.

[Q] Which platform and what implementation method to choose

Hi,
New here and generally new to the mobile application development scene. I just begun my thesis for my last year and one of its components is to develop a mobile version of the "program" that we're working on. Since I have no idea where to start and what platform/tools/method to use I'm asking here for advice. The teacher gave me some papers to study on and I must say I'm quite confused.
First let me give you a fast explanation of what I'm trying to achieve. What I'm making is an application for online voting on the decisions the student council takes. What this means is that instead of having to meet up every other week the members of the council will be able to post their ideas and proposals online, people will be able to ask questions and then they will be able to vote for whomever they want. This will be accessible from both a PC and a mobile device. One of the most important factors here is the security of the application/program since it is paramount that no votes are lost, counterfeited, deleted, changed or w/e. After that we're also gonna need database support since everyone will have their personal account and other than that it's gonna be somewhat like a small forum.
So the idea at first was to develop this in applet form (not sure if my terminology is correct on some stuff please correct me if i'm wrong) and embed it into a web site, accessible by everyone. However the professor that's overviewing the project also asked to make it so that people can use this from their mobile devices, so here we are. I've read on the different implementation methods (like native and web based) etc. and I also read up on cross platform development tools like phonegap and titanium and that's where the confusion starts.
First of all we want this to be accessible by almost everyone regardless if they're using iOS, Android, Symbian etc. If that's impossible at least iOS and Android is mandatory. Starting from there, native development tools are probably a no go since they require different versions of the program for each OS and possible device type. On the other hand the cross platform approach apparently doesn't offer good security (not exactly sure where that weakness comes from) and that is something we're trying to avoid. However I'm not sure if I've understood this correctly and I might be misinterpreting. Anyway, concluding it seemed to me that developing this as a web-application seems to be the best decision. If I go that route what exactly am I looking to do? Where do I start? Do i just make stuff in java and make a webpage via HTML 5 and add stuff in? I'll look online for tutorials on this but I'm not exactly sure where to start so I'm asking here.
Thanks in advance!
Unless there's a specific reason for wanting mobile apps then I'd recommend doing this as a website, making it responsive so that it's mobile friendly. That way it will play with all the mobile platforms, and all PC based OSs, with just 1 code base. Then the only choice you have to make is the server side code, which is what would handle all the database access and security etc.. The most obvious choices for that are PHP or C#/VB.Net. Both the platform and your own preference are what should make that decision.
Either way, whether you make a mobile app or a responsive website, you'll still need a server to do the data access and security for you. There's tons of good resources and I couldn't recommend Stack Overflow any higher than I do. Just make sure, if you ask any questions on there, that you know how to ask a good question, or you'll get downvoted and the question closed!
I hope this helps - good luck
If you want security in your mobile app as the most prominent feature, you'd have to rely on Native codes(Java/Objective-C). Cross-platform tools are no good when security does matters. Also it normally takes much less time to create some app in Native code than to create it in cross-platform tools, since most of the UI are at your disposal. Acc. to my personal experience cross-platform thing is good if you already have a previous source code available and are trying to port it on mobile.(Such as having a HTML website and trying to port it on phonegap will make sense)
That's just my opinion, other people may disagree with this.
Making a mobile friendly website is another choice as explained in previous post.
Archer said:
Unless there's a specific .... or C#/VB.Net. Both the platform and your own preference are what should make that decision.
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Might elaborating a bit on why use C#? Is it better when it comes to coding server side stuff? We were discussing what language to use with my professor and since he teaches OOP via Java he favors it a lot. However if it has drawbacks compared to the .NET stuff I'd like to know so that I can discuss it with him.
Also this project is part of a thesis and I'm pretty sure the professor wants to add the mobile application part just for the research and development process. It seemed to me that it was redundant too but I'm gonna guess he won't take no as an answer... Gonna have to discuss it more
Thanks for the replies so far!
jokeaccount said:
Might elaborating a bit on why use C#? Is it better when it comes to coding server side stuff? We were discussing what language to use with my professor and since he teaches OOP via Java he favors it a lot. However if it has drawbacks compared to the .NET stuff I'd like to know so that I can discuss it with him.
Also this project is part of a thesis and I'm pretty sure the professor wants to add the mobile application part just for the research and development process. It seemed to me that it was redundant too but I'm gonna guess he won't take no as an answer... Gonna have to discuss it more
Thanks for the replies so far!
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I did think it may be a case of him wanting you to do some mobile work, as well as web work. It does make sense if it's meant to be for the purpose of learning and experience.
I mentioned C# purely as an example of a server-side language, like PHP. You should really look at using whatever you're most comfortable and/or familiar with. I do use C# on a daily basis as a server-side language and it's very simple to write methods that take post data and return whatever is required (usually a JSON response), whether it be a web service with exposed public functions, or a generic handler. There's tons and tons of ways of doing it so you need to really decide what suits you and the environment you'll be working in.
I'm not familiar with using Java as a server language so I can't comment on that.

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