Sure some developers are philanthropists and others still are interested in other benefits besides actual cash money, but overwhelmingly apps are created in an effort to make a profit. Apple understands that keeping developers happy is a symbiotic relationship because the richer the software offering the more likely people are to buy their devices. This, combined with a product that can’t seem to fail means sustained developer interest in iOS.
Strategy Analytics just released the results of their developer survey in which they discovered that the iPad is “the most successful platform for enticing developers from other operating systems.”
The surprising result to come out of the survey indicated that beyond iOS and the iPad, developers were inclined to support the Windows mobile platform. Microsoft has not yet enjoyed a significant market share as it relates to the sales of those devices that take advantage of their mobile operating system. While many expect that the upcoming Windows 8 release may change that, developers seem to be placing some faith in the company coming through with a competitive platform.
While the primary focus for a developer when it comes to platform preference is generally related to profitability, there are other considerations as well, such as the appearance of a support community and overall sense of professionalism and longevity. This is one of the obstacles facing RIM right now and will always be a struggle for now fragmented Android operating system.
Considerable reports even beyond this one have indicated that a sizable amount of the profit gained from apps (even those that are available for free) is derived from in-app purchases of virtual goods. This “something for nothing” concept may baffle traditional economists, but it’s working and Apple (more than the competition) has the smoothest interface for encouraging and accommodating those (often impulse) purchases. Perhaps other platforms should build on this concept and make changes to encourage these sales on their devices as well.