So, you've decided you want to build an iPhone app for your business. What's the next step? Well, you can hire a developer to create a custom application for you to the tune of $5,000, $10,000, $25,000 or more.
Or you can do it yourself for about 200 bucks.
AppMakr, created by PointAbout Inc , allows anyone to build and compile an app in minutes instead of months, all in a self-service tool that enables users to manage apps and developer accounts. Easy. Inexpensive. Quick. Perfect for entrepreneurs short on time and tight on budget.
How It Works
Users start by entering a website URL or keywords. AppMakr then creates a sample iPhone app using the content provided. Users can then:
- Change the app icon, splash screen, header image, and colors
- Combine content feeds like Twitter, YouTube, Blogger, podcasts, and RSS feeds
- Test and customize the app on their own iPhone at no cost
- Monetize their app by inserting ads from Google AdSense, AdMob, DoubleChick, and Medialets, or by charging for it in the iTunes App Store
For a bird's-eye view of the process, check out this video demonstrating how an AppMakr app is built.
Simple Steps
The Dashboard
In the dashboard, you can create new apps, add your own developer account (which allows you to publish using your own brand), see recent build history, and view publish requests.
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Publish Under Your Own Brand
You can make apps in minutes using the default Developer Account, or add your own Developer Account to publish apps under your own brand.
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Add & Edit Artwork
Upload your own icon, choose one from the web, or specify a URL. Do the same for the splash page and you're ready to preview your changes.
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Add Content
Mashup several content feeds by adding RSS/Atom feed URLs.
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Customize Your App
Upload a header image to the top of your app, change colors using a color palette, then preview changes in the simulator.
Monetize
This step is optional, but may be a good way to bring in some additional revenue. You can either place ads from leading ad networks, or you can charge for your app in the iTunes app store. There are always other ways to monetize as well.
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Test and Publish
You can continue to test and customize on your iPhone for free, or you can publish your new app to the iTunes App Store for $199. For $499, you can publish your app under your own brand.
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While AppMakr apps do not replace a fully functional application custom-created by developers, it is a great, cost-effective alternative for small businesses with convenience and general functionality in mind.
Special Offer! Young Entrepreneur blog readers receive 25% off now through February 28th, 2010. That saves you $50 off on a $199 app or $125 off on a $499 app! Just enter the code “YoungE” when checking out.
