Ask HN: Is Mac App Store worth the trouble for a developer tool?
1 comments
I hate to say it, because I don't like the direction the ecosystem is heading, but if I were you, I'd launch on the Mac App Store first. You just can't ignore the boost you're going to get from that avenue.
If it turns out that your plugin system is actually a big win, then you can change your mind later. And it's not an absolute kiss of death. For example, almost all of Rogue Amoeba's apps can't be made App Store compatible, but they don't seem to be hurting too much because of it.
If it turns out that your plugin system is actually a big win, then you can change your mind later. And it's not an absolute kiss of death. For example, almost all of Rogue Amoeba's apps can't be made App Store compatible, but they don't seem to be hurting too much because of it.
> You just can't ignore the boost
My small data point supporting this: I have a free utility which gets 20+ downloads/day with no marketing and not enough ratings for stars to show. All of these are people who find the app via app store search.
Downside to the app store: apart from sandboxing, you have to deal with grey areas in review. My app had to be tweaked to satisfy the HIG, even though the popular app I was copying had the same violation.
edit: less words
My small data point supporting this: I have a free utility which gets 20+ downloads/day with no marketing and not enough ratings for stars to show. All of these are people who find the app via app store search.
Downside to the app store: apart from sandboxing, you have to deal with grey areas in review. My app had to be tweaked to satisfy the HIG, even though the popular app I was copying had the same violation.
edit: less words
Here's the kicker: sandboxing will be a pain in the ass with this app, and I also have a plugin system implemented, but not published or in use, because that would be a PIA with Mac App Store too (so I want to launch first and figure that out later). Apple also did not like my icon, which is not an issue, but also a reason why the launch is delayed.
Do you think developer tools benefit much from the App Store effect? Should I simply launch with PayPal payments, or should I not blow the unique chance to build up a good App Store rating on launch (when many existing users will go and buy it over a short period of time)?