It’s tough being an app developer these days. It can be difficult to figure out which platforms to focus efforts on. We all know the iPad is at the top of developers’ lists, but other platforms are gaining popularity and offer new possibilities. Regardless of the environment, developers will face the same challenge of finding a way to stand out in the crowded marketplace of thousands and thousands of other apps. Android tablets seem to be gaining more momentum, due to a growing number of new devices and app selections, and would be a pretty safe choice for developers. 

How do developers determine if it is a good investment to build apps for specific devices or cast a wider net? At Quickoffice, we make sure that we custom build an app to work seamlessly on the most popular mobile platforms, ensuring maximum functionality and the best possible interface and features for users, no matter the device. According to CNET, “developers simply aren't going to waste time creating applications for devices that won't catch on with consumers”. That’s true, but how do device and platform makers convince the developers that their products are viable enough to take on Apple and Google?

Microsoft is entering the space with their new Windows tablets and look to have a good chance in competing and garnering attention from developers. Windows 8 brings a new ‘hybrid’ OS to the market that will run on PCs and tablets. Jay Greene from CNET says, “In order for their strategy to work they need to persuade developers to create apps that take advantage of the touch-friendly Metro interface.” This is another instance where we at Quickoffice say the app tail wags the device dog. In order for devices to succeed in today’s market, apps are a critical component to its ultimate adoption. A device will not succeed without a robust app portfolio.

Another contender to snatch up developers is Amazon’s Kindle Fire, one of the newest tablets that we’re excited to say ships preinstalled with Quickoffice. It has been heralded as an iPad alternative by Peter Rojas, cofounder of Gizmodo and Engadget and Ashok Kumar, an analyst at Rodman & Renshaw. The great consumer popularity it gained from the moment it launched with a $199 price tag, might just be a new winning choice for consumers and developers alike.   

What is at the top of your list when you decide to purchase a tablet?