IAMAI launches Apps Foundation to support developers

The foundation will help support the application developer's community

In a bid to extend support to application developers in the country, the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) today announced the launch of 'Apps Foundation of India' (API).

 

"The number of application developers are expected to rise in coming years. So we have announced the launch of this foundation to help and support the application developer's community," IAMAI said at the inaugural session of the three day AppFest 2013, being held at IIM-A.

 

There are around 3 lakh application developers in India across various platforms like Android and India Operating System (IOS), the industry body said.

 

"API would have for itself two primary goals - help build new enterprise and support entrepreneurship as well as develop world class professionals for this industry," it said.

 

From the current level of around 150 million mobile internet users (MIUs), India is expected to have 300 million MIUs by 2016. Last year, mobile internet users in India crossed the number of desktop users, some experts said.

 

"Developers should work towards building apps in local languages, which can really transform the lives of people. This will really complement the wide reach of mobile phones," said Qualcomm India Associate Director-Business Development, Anand Virani, while speaking at AppFest-2013.

"Local language offers enormous potential," he said.

 

"The critical issue for the developers is to figure out which monetisation model will work for them, and accordingly map out their plans," said Ravi Vyas, product manager, Vserv, in his address.

 

The Gujarat chapter of API was also formed today. With AppFest 2013, IAMAI hopes to create the first of its kind forum for all stakeholders in the apps economy in India.

Spread over three days, the AppFest will have three tracks - Talkathon, Hackathon and Challengathon. Developers would be able to share ideas on technology, revenue models and current opportunities with each other.

 

The event also provides an opportunity to participants to compete and create on the spot customised solutions for brands present and earn immediate commercial opportunity to work with them on larger projects.

 

To leverage the enormous opportunity for moving towards an 'Apps Economy', an eco-system is being created in the country where businesses, developers, platforms and networks are incentivised for their efforts, industry experts said.

 

It is estimated that in the US alone, apps have generated half a million new jobs between 2007 and 2012, IAMAI said in a statement.