Ever wonder why Android app developers build apps? I’ve toyed with developing an app, even got past the hello world phase! Like any real application development, it takes skill, dedication, and a little imagination.
I recently had a chance to exchange a few emails with Zvi Band, developer of MeetroDC. Zvi, an Android mobile application developer at Droidee.com took the time to answer some basic questions about himself, MeetroDC, and the future of Android as he sees it. Very insightful thoughts to say the least.
AndroidGeekTips: What was your first cell phone? What year?
Zvi: I had a Nokia 3310, around 2002. Still have it in a desk drawer somewhere.
AndroidGeekTips: What’s your current phone/Android device?
Zvi: I have a Motorola Droid, that I’m using for development and net surfing. I also have a Blackberry Curve, and I’m not ready to get rid of it yet!
AndroidGeekTips: What’s your programming background?
Zvi: Java was my first programming language, so it was easy to jump back in with Android development. As a freelance developer, I mainly specialize in Ruby on Rails and PHP (usually content management systems like Wordpress and Expression Engine).
AndroidGeekTips: Is MeetroDC your first Android market app?
Zvi: Yes!
AndroidGeekTips: How did you come up with the idea for MeetroDC?
Zvi: As a DC resident, I’m always frustrated by the timing of trains, as are many other residents. One usually has no idea when the next train is going to arrive until you get down to the platform. I wrote an SMS app a few years ago that was pretty popular, and when the Android platform became popular I knew this was going to be the first tool I had to write.
AndroidGeekTips: Working on any other apps?
Zvi: I’m working on a couple other applications at the moment – one fitness related app, and one game. They are a bit too early in development to be able to discuss them. I’m also working on some partnerships with other firms and some interesting brands, to bring them to Android.
AndroidGeekTips: Other than your own of course, what is your favorite Android app? (why?)
Zvi: Two, mainly. The Key Ring app, for being a simple, straightforward application that provides a real utility (storing all your membership barcodes) and Congress, for enabling on-the-go political activism and awareness.
AndroidGeekTips: Got a new android phone in your radar?
Zvi: I’m using the Droid, but I’m always going to keep on the lookout for trends in phones. The HTC line seems pretty solid.
AndroidGeekTips: What are your predictions for Android over the next year?
Zvi: I strongly believe the Android platform is going to explode. We’ve already seen carriers adopting the platform, and I believe will becoming the standard smartphone OS for all of them. I think what we have to keep an eye on is usage rates with these phones, as it pertains to using the market, discovering applications, and purchasing them.
You can read more about his app, in our MeetroDC Android application review.
