Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
App Store
The App Store is an application distribution platform for iOS, developed and maintained by
Apple. It is a centralized online store where users can browse and download both free and
paid apps. These apps expand the functionality of a mobile device. As of December 2013,
there are more than 1 million applications in the App Store, and users have downloaded
them over 60 billion times. Apps available in the App Store are generally written by third-
party developers. Developers use XCode and the iPhone SDK to develop iOS applications.
Later, they submit the app to Apple for approval. Apple follows an extensive review pro-
cess to check the app against the company guidelines. If Apple approves the app, it is pub-
lished to the App Store where users can download or buy it. The strict review process
makes the App Store less prone to malware. Currently, users can access the App Store via
iTunes and also from their iOS devices.
