Pros and cons of opening iOS to third-party developers

May 29, 2013

Speaking with Walt Mossberg and Kara Swisher at the All Things D conference, Apple CEO Tim Cook hinted that the future of iOS might include opening the platform to third-party developers. If it happens, it will be a dramatic shift for the Apple mobile OS, and it will have both good and bad repercussions. Apple is known for its “walled garden” approach to controlling the iOS experience. Walt Mossberg asked Cook about Facebook Home, and whether or not Apple might consider allowing that sort of customization of iOS, or interaction at that level from third-party apps. Facebook Home provides a custom overlay that changes the Android experience. Cook responded, “On the general topic of opening up APIs, I think you'll see us open up more in the future, but not to the degree that we put the customer at risk of having a bad experience. So there's always a fine line to walk there, or maybe not so fine." Cook acknowledged that there are certainly users that want more flexibility to customize their mobile device, but he stressed, "We think the customer pays us to make choices on their behalf. I've seen some of these settings screens, and I don't think that's what customers want.” To read this article in full or to leave a comment, please click here

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