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Apple’s CEO, Steve Jobs, made a big announced telling us that iPhone and iPod Touch SDK (Software Development Kit) will be handed over to third party developers in February. Using the SDK, developers will be able to create real applications, which can be installed on an iPhone or iPod Touch without employing any complex hacks. We’ll soon see more powerful applications, which don’t need Safari web browser to run.
iPhone is indeed a powerful device, so releasing the SDK could easily allow malicious hackers to code viruses and malware. Apple recognizes the consequences, so they are working on something which would give developers the library to code openly, while keeping their users safe. Here’s what Steve had to say:
"It will take until February to release an SDK because we’re trying to do two diametrically opposed things at once—provide an advanced and open platform to developers while at the same time protect iPhone users from viruses, malware, privacy attacks, etc. This is no easy task. Some claim that viruses and malware are not a problem on mobile phones—this is simply not true"
Apple finally realized that they cannot go against the wish of their users, especially when the hackers are on a rampage trying to mod their iPhones. We’ve seen enough web applications for the iPhone already, which enables us do this and that. Let’s wait and see if the same crazy moves over in building real iPhone applications.
I’m visualizing some of my favorite applications like Zoho, Google Talk or Skype being ported as a real application.
[Via: CyberNet]
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wrote, on October 19th, 2007
I have made some observations here on how this SDK could also be very useful to hackers and virus writers.
wrote, on October 19th, 2007
Great step from Apple, but does this indirectly indicates that Apple is soon going to make unlocked iPhones official?
wrote, on October 19th, 2007
Yay !! One more reason to buy an iPhone when it gets here. Wish they add 3G too. But, I’m not sure how well the iPhone will perform with 3rd party stuff in it.
wrote, on October 19th, 2007
No. Unlocking is the carrier parameter. AT&T should decide. Primarily, Apple knew that if they gave 3rd party support, hackers will unlock it.
But since its no use and people already run 3rd party apps, Apple might’ve thought “why not” …
wrote, on October 19th, 2007
When is the 2nd gen iPhone coming out? That’s when I’m going to buy it! I’m really glad to hear that they’re going to open up the API, the programs are going to be so much better! Can’t wait!