iPhone SDK a Hit With Developers

Apple has revealed that more than 100,000 iPhone developers downloaded the beta iPhone Software Development Kit (SDK) in the first four days following its launch on 6 March. The iPhone SDK provides developers with the same set of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and tools that Apple uses to create its native applications for iPhone and iPod touch.
“Developer reaction to the iPhone SDK has been incredible, with more than 100,000 downloads in the first four days,” says Philip Schiller, Apple Senior Vice President of Worldwide Product Marketing. “Also, over 1 million people have watched the launch video on Apple.com, further demonstrating the incredible interest developers have in creating applications for the iPhone.”
Apple also previewed the new App Store, a breakthrough way for developers to wirelessly deliver their applications to every iPhone and iPod touch user. Developers set the price for their applications - including free - and retain 70% of all sales revenues.
Leading developers such as AOL, Electronic Arts, Epocrates, Salesforce.com and Sega have already demonstrated amazing applications using the SDK, says Apple, adding that developer response continues to be phenomenal, with more developers embracing the platform.
“The iPhone SDK gives us the tools we need to create powerful iPhone applications and is an important part of our overall mobile strategy,” says Rick Jensen, Senior Vice President, Small Business Group, at Intuit. “We’re excited that the iPhone expands the ways our customers can solve key financial tasks wherever they might be.”
Wayne B. Yurtin, president and CEO of Rocket Mobile, is enthused by the App Store.
“70% of the retail price is hands-down the best deal out there in mobile,” he says. “It’s simple and motivating for developers. We can’t wait to get our first iPhone applications on the revolutionary App Store.”
And Scott Zerby, Vice President at THQ Wireless says:
“The iPhone is the mobile platform game developers have been dreaming of. We’re looking at how we can use the iPhone’s innovative user interface to create new game experiences for our big brand entertainment partners that consumers love.”
The free beta iPhone SDK is available immediately worldwide and can be downloaded here. The iPhone Developer Program will initially be available in the US and will expand to other countries in the coming months. A QuickTime video of the iPhone roadmap event is available to view here.