Creating an iPhone App

Apple maintains strict control over what applications are available for download to the iPhone.

Third-party developers typically use the Apple software developers kit (SDK) to create the app, and an iPhone simulator to test it. The SDK is available for free, but in order to submit an application for sale, developers must be registered with Apple and pay a fee. If the app is accepted, the developer and Apple® share the revenue on any sales. Apple may not approve an app if it is deemed inappropriate, and the company has pulled approved apps after they were available for sale due to complaints.

There has been some controversy over the process that Apple uses to approve each iPhone app, and many developers have found the experience to be quite time-consuming. In the official approval guidelines document, the company reserves the right to reject apps it feels are "over the line," although exactly what that line is is not defined. The company also states that it will reject apps that are poorly made or dont do anything useful or entertaining, all with the goal of providing a good experience for iPhone users.