Skyhook Wireless Report Reveals Developers Struggling to Profit from Android Apps
Written by Skyhook Wireless
Wednesday, 02 December 2009
Most are frustrated with today's Android Market
BOSTON, MA- December 1, 2009- Skyhook Wireless, operator of the world's most advanced location system, today released a survey report detailing Android developers' general dissatisfaction with the platform. Developers are frustrated with low download volumes, poor marketplace design and discovery options, and lack of an effective consumer billing system. These factors make it difficult for developers to generate revenue.
82% of those surveyed indicated that the design of the Android Marketplace makes it difficult for apps to be noticed; 57% of Android developers are not satisfied with the profits to date. Google Checkout is a major concern for developers, 43% report that they would sell more apps if Android used a carrier billing or another simpler billing system; and only 10% of Android developers are currently serving ads.
In anticipation of many new Android devices entering the market, fragmentation of the market is a concern. 46% of developers were certain that different versions of Android would make development more difficult.
"Rather than creating opportunity, platform divergence has just created further problems; we simply can't afford to test across all Android phones," said James Grafton, developer of Android apps like Pic Swap and Get Me Home. "Because of these issues, we decided to take a step back from Android and reconsider our efforts."
"Today, developers are frustrated with their inability to profit from the Android platform," said Kate Imbach, vice president of marketing at Skyhook Wireless. "This report shows that although Android developers are excited about the future of Android, the platform may face significant challenges if it does not soon improve monetization options and take steps to protect against the risk of fragmentation."
Founded in 2003, Skyhook Wireless has pioneered the development of the first hybrid positioning system to fully leverage Wi-Fi, GPS and cell towers delivering precise location data supporting the growing market for location-based services. Skyhook's hybrid positioning system XPS requires no new hardware, works indoors and outdoors, provides an instant location and is more accurate than current technologies in congested downtown areas. Skyhook Wireless is headquartered in Boston, MA, and is privately held. Investors include RRE Ventures, Bain Capital Ventures, Intel Capital and CommonAngels. For more information visit www.skyhookwireless.com, send email to or call 617-314-9802.
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