My name is Zak, I’m a 24 year old recent Harvard grad who just started my own app development shop in December.
Company Name – De La Plata Enterprises
Q: How long have you been developing for the iPhone/iPod platform?
A: Since December 09
Q: Describe your app(s)?
A: Our flagship is an app called Near to Here, which is geolocation enabled tour guide that tells you about what is around you as you pass by it. Our 2.0 version of the product will be released this week. We also are producing a line of Travel Dictionary and Phrasebooks. Right now, we have about 50 in the app store and they are doing very well.
Q: Who is/are your app(s) for?
A: Well, I am a big traveler myself, so decided to build a line of apps geared towards the traveler.
Q: What did you do before developing for the iPhone/iPod platform?
I worked for Harvard EdLabs (http://www.edlabs.harvard.edu/) in NYC managing experimental incentive based programs at inner city elementary and middle schools in all five boroughs.
Q: Whats the greatest and worst thing about developing for the iPhone and iPod?
I love that the SDK makes developers to tools to be creative and innovative without too much technical friction.
Q: What were your major problems when releasing your iPhone app?
The greatest problem is getting noticed within the App store. It takes a lot of work to get your app the recognition it deserves
Q: Do you intend on making an iPad app?
Yes, we are working on a few non travel apps. I wrote a children’s book when I was about 10, I am thinking to publish that as an interactive book for the iPad. In addition, we have some comic book apps in the pipeline, not to mention some children oriented projects like e-coloring books.
Q: Do you have any cool future projects in the pipeline? Provide as much detail about the project you are willing to discuss.
A: Yes, in addition to the above, we are expanding beyond this platform to other mobile devices – mainly blackbery and android, to introduce a new product called “Late Mate” which helps people make sure they are on time.
Q: Anything you want iPhone users to think about or realize when it comes to apps?
A: When you leave a rating in the store, make sure you leave constructive feedback. Developers DO read these and will consider all your comments for furture versions.
Q: Are you looking for employees, partners, funding or anything that will help grow your company in the future?
A: Always looking for partners if the synergy is great. We have been speaking to a few travel related companies about embedding relevant geolocated travel offers, among other things.
Q: What iPhone/iPod tip would you like to give our iPhone users?
A: Take advantage and enjoy. The best is yet to come.
Q: What are your favorite iPhone apps besides your own?
A: I love App Tracker to track the process of the apps I have in the various stores around the world.
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/near-to-here/id343557072?mt=8
Some other iPhone posts you may enjoy:
Tags: app, developer, iPhone, iPod, showcase
