Geek Answers Handbook

Can I distribute the iPhone web application through the App Store?

In a web application, I mean a Safari-oriented website on the iPhone that can run “offline” (using the cache manifest file, JavaScript database, full screen from the screen on the main screen.)

The user interface as a web application is beautiful after installing it, so there is no need for it to be native, and perhaps the application delivered in this way could work on other platforms (mobile and computer browsers). m it is known that there are many hardware / API functions that cannot be accessed in this way, but this is not a problem.

The App Store provides an opportunity to sell the application, as well as a central directory for users to find it. A mobile application delivered over the Internet without these benefits is facing a tough battle.

In addition, I would like to be able to use the existing HTML / JavaScript / CSS base (and skills) instead of porting to a new language, etc. Not to mention the fact that the development of an OSX machine is not required.

I did not see anything on the Apple website, noting this, they are focused on the "native" C / Cocoa objects. One option would be to develop a native iPhone application that provides a webkit surface for HTML / JavaScript.

+4
source share
3 answers

Can I distribute the iPhone? Web application through the App Store?

As far as I know, no, this is not so. Theoretically, you can use UIWebView so that the user can experience your iphone-webapp, but if you are a serious developer, then it costs $ 1000 for a used MacBook and $ 100 for a license for iPhone.

On the other hand, iPhone really allows you to customize links to your site using the "Add to Homescreen". This gives the user almost the same experience as in the native application.

On the other hand, you can use standalone features similar to what Google does for Gmail / Reader / etc with its client-side cache cache / HTML 5.0.

MonoTouch - This technology has recently been thrown around SO, so you can test it (non-OSX developmentement).

+3
source

Only native applications cannot be deployed to the AppStore, but I would consider a later option. those. Develop your own webkit application. I think the hardest bit will demonstrate the functionality of the lower level iPhone for the javascript engine.

+1
source

More articles:


All Articles