While the App Store and applications have been a huge hit, playing around with applications over the past two days has filled me with some worries. Worries that Apple will need to address if they want the iPhone to succeed as a platform.

Application Data

After trying out several applications yesterday, a major flaw in the way application data is stored became apparent. Application data (preferences, files, saved data such as games) are all stored directly linked with the application that created them. Therefore, if an application is uninstalled, everything that application ever created is cleaned up and throw into the ether. Sounds like a great way to make sure the iPhone stays uncluttered, no? Well it is, but keeping the iPhone clutter free brings problems.

Due to the nature of the application / data relationship, if an application is removed from the iPhone unintentionally, everything that application ever stored is removed permanently. Let me give you an example.

While messing with iTunes’ settings yesterday, I changed my iPod touch’s Application syncing preference to selective applications only. I forgot to select a few applications, and they were removed from my iPod touch the second I clicked apply. No big deal, right? I reselected the applications, and they appeared on my iPod touch with one exception – they were reset to their default settings and no longer contained my saved data. Thankfully, I only lost my Facebook login settings, my Flickr login settings, and my level 8 save game of Enigmo, but the results could have been much worse.

Looking at the list of applications currently available in the App Store, I would say 95% of applications would be fine with their data reset. Users would only lose some display settings, maybe a login or two, and that would be all. However, as the platform matures, more applications (and their users) will become reliant on stored data. Imagine finding out a year’s worth of mileage logs disappeared during your last iPhone’s restore. That could be a disaster.

Syncing

Part of this problem is due to the application / data relationship, but the bigger issue is the lack of a standardized syncing method in the iPhone OS. I would have no problem loosing data after a restore if that data could easily be added back, but at the moment there is no way to restore application data (yes, I’m aware iTunes currently stores a backup, but that is only of the most reason sync, and is no help if a single application looses its data).

Currently all of the native iPhone applications, with the exception of Notes and SMS, sync through an application that manages the iPhone’s stored data. Calendar items sync with iCal, addresses sync with Address Book, and so on. However, third-party applications are left to fend for themselves. Some application developers have cleverly worked around this by utilizing “the cloud” (great example is OmniFocus’ WebDAV sync), but applications without desktop counterparts are left stranded.

How to Trust the iPhone Platform

If Apple wants the iPhone platform to be trusted among businesses and consumers, they need to address these issues. Start backing up application data separate from the application itself. So, when the application is reinstalled, the data can be restored as well. With simple changes such as this, the iPhone will not only be the most innovate mobile platform today, the iPhone can become the most trusted mobile platform as well.

While no meme is going around this year (at least so far), I thought it would be interesting to return to my list and see exactly what applications I said I would purchase and did, and what applications I ended up buying unexpectingly. So, without further ado, here’s this year’s application list.

Last Year’s Predictions

• Adobe CS3 Educational Version – Yes, I managed to snag a copy this year. Got it at a pretty good price too thanks to my university book store.
• Leopard – Of course I purchased Leopard this year. I wish I could have purchased it in May, the original release date, but at least it was released this year.
• Microsoft Office 2007 2008 Education Version – Would have loved to purchased the new Office this year, but Microsoft failed to deliver. Yes, I know I can purchased 2004 now and receive 2008 for the cost of shipping, but I’d rather walk in to an Apple Store and get my copy right then and there.
• TextMate Leopard Edition – Had this been released, I probably would have purchased it. If TextMate does eventually come out with a Leopard-only version, I’m still planning on paying the MacHeist upgrade costs.
• Xtorrent – Yes, I purchased it, and I feel I got my money’s worth.

My 2007 Application Purchases

• Billings – I purchased Billings as soon as I started my freelancing business. While there is a minor bug that I reported to the developers and has been ignored, this is still a solid freelancing management app.
• Connect360 – I’ve had a love/hate relationship with Connect360 this past year. When it works, it’s the best app in town. When it doesn’t, it makes you wish you had Windows Media Center just so Microsoft’s damn propriety standards would ‘work’.
• iFlash – I purchased this application to help me in my required three semesters of Spanish. While I haven’t used it as much as I should, I have nothing bad to say about this small little app.
• iLife ’08 – Loving the new iLife, although I only seem to use iPhoto.
• iShowU – Alright, I admit it. I didn’t purchase iShowU; it was gifted to me by an unnamed company (thanks!).
• Mailplane – Some may say purchasing a wrapper for a web-based application is dumb. I say I love Gmail’s interface, I love taking advantage of desktop email features, and this application makes them coexist. Although, I wish Gmail 2.0 would start refreshing the inbox. I keep replying late to my email!
• OmniFocus – I’m pretty sure I purchased this due to the recommendations flying left and right on Twitter. OmniFocus is up there as one my best purchases of 2007 – and it’s not even out of beta!
• Pzizz – I have used Pzizz every night since I purchased it. If you can’t fall asleep or like power naps, this application is for you.
• Saft – Thanks to Safari 3 finally working like a browser should, I needed this little app to add a few of my favorite features from Firefox.
• Spanning Sync – iCal and Google Calendar have never lived happier.
• SteerMouse – I really wish I didn’t have to purchase this application, but I have nothing bad to say about it. The author has done a great job keeping up to date with OS updates.
• Synk – I nominate this for my worst application purchase of 2007. Not because Synk isn’t good, but it got replaced by Time Machine a few months after my purchase. I knew that would happen, so I honestly can’t complain.
• VisualHub – Purchased for converting videos for 360 use. Although kind of pointless now that the 360 supports H.264/Xvid, I still get some use out of it.
• VMware Fusion – Yes, I purchased Parallels last year, but VMware turned out better and Parallels started charging for updates.

Upcoming Purchases in 2008

• iPhone / iPod touch Applications – While I don’t know what Apple is doing with its upcoming SDK, I do know I’m willing to purchase applications for the platform. Whether it be games from iTunes or add-ons to programs like OmniFocus, I’m ready to fork over money for legitimate 3rd-party applications.
• MacHeist II Bundle – Let me just say this: I love MacHeist. While I hope this year’s bundle contains some really great applications, I know I’ll be purchasing it regardless. Why? I get it for free due to last year’s PayPal payment issues.
• Newsfire 2 – Rumor has it a new Newsfire version is coming, and if it manages to add some nice features, I’ll gladly pay the upgrade price.
• Twitterrific – This is a tough one and I’m still on the fence about it. I like Twitterrific, but I hate the ads. I don’t really think $15 is worth the price of removing the ads when there are other free applications like Snitter (although a great app, Adobe AIR runs like crap).
• Versions – If this app ever manages to release a beta, I think it has a good shot at taking some money from me.

There’s my list, now what have you bought or are planning to buy? I’d love to see this meme pick up some steam again.

This year is perhaps the first year I have purchased software. Previously application purchases were left up to my parents or (gasp) Usenet. That’s changed a lot this year, and I’ve finally cleaned up my act (for the most part). So, without further ado, here’s the list.

My 2006 Application Purchases

• Assignment Planner – Has been invaluable in keeping track of the many assignments I receive at Penn State.
• AppZapper – I use it all of the time to cleanup applications I have been testing.
• BetterZip – It’s basically WinZip for Mac, but without the unneeded bloat. It has some handy features such as stripping the Mac resources files from created archives.
• Cha-Ching – Didn’t technically buy it, but received it in a MacHeist heist. It’s been perfect for keeping track of my personal finances.
• CSSEdit2 – Used it for my web design class and redesigning cavemonkey50.com. Wouldn’t have been able to work on websites as fast as I did without it.
• Disco – While most people will say there are better free alternatives, I still like Disco. I love the animations, and it really does make burning a million times easier.
• Flickr iPhoto Export – The most convenient way to get my photos from iPhoto into my Flickr account. A little pricey, but it seems to have been worth it.
• MacHeist Bundle – Delicious Library, FotoMagico, iClip, Newsfire, and TextMate – These are all great applications which I didn’t have before MacHeist and have worked their way into my regularly used applications.
• OmniOutliner Pro – Been using it since I got my MacBook. I take all my class notes with it, and its search function makes studying a breeze.
• Parallels – While I love my Mac, I can’t escape Windows at Penn State. I’ll occasionally need to boot up Windows to test a website in IE, or program a C++ program. For those times, Parallels has done the job exceptionally.
• Pukka – Cheap application for bookmarking to Del.icio.us.
• Synergy – I use it almost every second to control iTunes and submit my listened tracks to Last.fm.
• Transmit – No other FTP app stands a chance.

Upcoming Purchases in 2007

• Adobe CS3 Educational – I pretty much require this now with all the web work I do. Looking forward to CS3 being so much faster on an Intel Mac.
• Leopard – This is given. Though, I probably won’t install it until my next semester is over.
• Microsoft Office 2007 Education Version – If Microsoft can get Office 2007 out on Mac this year, I will be buying it.
• TextMate – I love this application so much that I’ll be buying the updated version for Leopard.
• Xtorrent – As soon as Xtorrent is publicly released, I’m buying it. It’s the only Mac torrenting app worth using.

There’s my list, now what have you bought or are planning to buy?

Now some applications are smart, and either include an alias to the Applications folder or show the Finder’s sidebar in the DMG. Why can’t all DMGs be like that? Who’s to blame? Is a DMG’s default view missing the Application folder, or do developers just like trimming down their DMG windows? Whoever is at fault, something needs to be done about it. I know it sounds stupid, but I’m just sick of going that extra step just to drag and drop an application.

Throughout the years of having Palms I’ve played with a lot of Palm software. Some of it has been wonderful and found it’s way into my regular day to day use, while other applications meet the almighty delete shortly after the first Hotsync. Finding the perfect application can be difficult, especially since the Palm platform has a wide array of software choices. That’s why I’m writing this application guide for you.

Keep in mind that this top ten application list is being written in the eyes of a student. Since the Palm platform appeals to almost anyone, not all application are useful in every case. For example, business workers will want personal information manager applications, while the average joe is interested in games. While some applications may be useful for anyone, I’m really intending the list to be for students. Now that we got the basics down, let’s get into it.

10. Klondike Solitaire

Every device needs a solitaire application, even the Palm. While I’ve tried other solitaire applications for the Palm (and trust me there are a bunch), I keep on coming back to Klondike Solitaire. Maybe I keep on coming back to Klondike Solitaire because it looks good. Maybe I come back be because it doesn’t try to mess with the basic game of solitaire, like other solitaire games do. Or, it could be the fact that it came free with my Palm. Whatever the reason, it’s a damn good solitaire application and will definitely help you through those boring moments of class. If you’re unlucky and it doesn’t come free with your Palm, I’d say the $11.95 price tag is worth it.

9. HandyAid

Most of the time when carrying a Palm device from class to class, you’re going to stick it in your pocket. This can lead to the bumping of buttons on the Palm, turning the device on and wasting precious battery power. HandyAid solves this problem through a number of methods. It gives you the option to disable application button power on, require a special button modifier, or monitor if you actually start using the device.

HandyAid also allow you to turn the Palm off after an alarm (a common battery waster), dim the screen when not in use, turn the Palm off after various annoying power ons (such as Hotsyncs or SD card insertion), and even functions as a button launcher, allowing you to push one button several times to cycle through applications.

Although HandyAid isn’t free ($11.95) the battery power you’ll save is well worth it. Next time you pull out your Palm only to find it’s on with 10% battery power left, think of HandyAid. You’ll thank yourself later.

8. Bejeweled

Bejeweled is on almost any platform, and there’s a reason for it. It’s a highly addictive game and a great time waster. If you’ve never experience Bejeweled, you’re in for a treat. This is yet another game which will help you get through those boring moment in class or waste some time in between classes. Just don’t play Bejeweled when you’re suppose to be studying for a test, and you’ll be fine. Word of warning, this yet another application which isn’t free (I promise I have some free ones!). Bejeweled costs $19.95, but its replay value should cover that.

7. DA Launcher

Think widgets for Palm. That’s the closest analogy I can think of for DAs. DAs are small little applications which provide useful features. To run these little apps you’ll need a launcher program, which is similar to a widget engine on a PC. That’s where DA Launcher comes in. DA Launcher is one of many programs out there which will run DAs. I consider DA Launcher one of the simplest DA launchers, while provide useful features such as quick launch DA functionality. The best part of DA Launcher is that it’s 100% free.

Now that you have DA Launcher, you’ll need some DAs. My personal favorite is VolumeDA. VolumeDA solves the problem of forgotten alarms going off at the wrong time, such as during class. Launching this DA will toggle your sound to mute or back to it’s initial volume depending on what you did last.

6. DateBk5

Some people think that the basic Calendar application that shipped with the Palm just isn’t enough. I’m not one these people, but if you are there’s DateBk5. DateBk5 is all about making managing your appointments easier, and it does a wonderful job. Features such as color coded appointments, strikethroughs for canceled events, and powerful searching are all features DateBk5 adds to your daily schedule management. If your one of those who doesn’t think Calendar can handle your busy life style, then DateBk5 is for you; just be prepared to pay the premium of $24.95.

5. AvantGo

Want to read the news in class, or browse your favorite RSS feeds? AvantGo makes this a reality. What makes AvantGo better than the rest? AvantGo is partnered with several news organizations such as CNet News. These news organizations have custom Palm formatted pages, making things easier to browse. If you want to read something other than their partners AvantGo also allows you to add RSS feeds. It’s not going to replace your existing computer RSS reader, but it will help ease the pain when you’re away form it.

What I find great about AvantGo is that it can sync with your computer, sync wirelessly over a cell phone service (Treo models), or sync with a WiFi hotspot. Most Palm RSS readers will only allow you to sync one way, or are limited in their features. AvantGo has it all. Unfortunately Mac support is very shoddy, but if you have another method of syncing this application will serve you fine.

4. Palm Reader

Assigned a book for class? Save yourself the trouble of lugging the paper copy around and get the eBook. Palm Reader, my favorite eBook reader, will cover the eBook reading easily. It’s light and simple, focusing on the text instead of the features. However, if features are your fetish, Palm Reader covers the basics and more.

3. Documents to Go

Alright, I’ll admit it. This is a cheap choice, since it comes with just about any Palm nowadays. However, it still ranks up there among my favorite applications. Documents to Go (Mac version) is the office application for Palm. Documents to Go allows you to carry your school essays or spreadsheets with you at all times, and even edit them on the fly. With support for Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and PDF files, this application is just an essential for any student.

2. powerOne Graph

If your taking any math related courses you’re going to need a calculator. The basic Palm calculator just doesn’t cut it in these situations. That’s why there’s powerOne Graph. powerOne Graph is a fully functional graphing calculator which ranks up there with real graphing calculators such as the TI models. In my opinion it just doesn’t rank up there, it exceeds. Palm’s high resolution screen makes estimating functions a breeze, and color coded graphs help distinguish between functions. It’s hard to explain all the features without confusing the non-Math geeks out there, so I won’t. Just know that if you need a graphing calculator, this is the one.

At only $59.99, powerOne graph is a steal compared to the basic graphing calculators. A basic graphing calculator will set you back at least $100, while one with this functionality will cost you in excess of $150. Just keep in mind that you may not be able to use this calculator on certain tests or with certain teachers. For example, the AP Calculus test prohibits Palm calculators to prevent cheating.

1. Due Yesterday

If you’re a student you’re going to have assignments to manage. I find that the basic ToDo application that comes with the Palm just doesn’t have the functionality I need for managing them. That’s why I use Due Yesterday. Due Yesterday makes managing assignments a breeze. You can categorize assignments by class or due date. You can even keep track of grades and your GPA. On top of that, if you have a weird schedule, you’ll never forget what class you have because Due Yesterday will even manage that.

What makes this application even better is it has a desktop application which will work on either Mac or PC. This is just icing on the cake for an already awesome application. And to top it off, both the desktop application and Palm software is 100% free. I’m sure you appreciate this, because if you’ve bought all the previous software, you’re probably going to be eating ramen noodles tonight.

This application myth has been around for quite some time, and although it’s not true nowadays, that thought has always stuck in people’s minds. Perhaps it’s due to the fact that when visiting stores that sell software, you almost never see software for the Mac. Or, the myth could have come from the pre-Jobs era when this myth really was true. Whatever the reason, this myth is false.

There is a plethora of software available for the Mac, it’s just not in the common places you’d find Windows software. The majority of Mac applications live online, either on a third-party websites or in Apple’s store. Just because you can’t physically go out and buy them (which isn’t 100% true if you live near an Apple store), doesn’t mean the software isn’t out there. If fact most of the software you would never see in a store due to the fact that it’s free.

Most of time you even have several choices for a particular application. Take IM applications for example. There is iChat (which comes with OS X), Adium X, MSN Messenger, Yahoo Messanger, and AIM. Office suites are another example. You have Microsoft Office 2004, OpenOSX: Office, and OpenOffice. So, for just about any given application task you have at least two options. And, what’s even better is the majority of the time those application choices are better than their Windows counterparts.

On top of the application choices, there are several applications which aren’t even on Windows (at least in a similar form). There is a free application called Quicksilver which is an application launcher. The program allows you to quickly launch applications and perform tasks all with a quick key combo and a few letters. Another application called SubEthaEdit is a collaborative text editor, allowing multiple people to work on the same project simultaneously.

Now gaming is still limited on a Mac, but that’s a minor thing for most of us. You’ll still find miniature games such as Solitaire or even Bejeweled; you just won’t be seeing Battlefield 2 anytime soon. If you’re into older games such as World or Warcraft, those games are available for Mac, and most popular games do eventually make it over to Mac; just several years later than their Windows release.

As you can see, how ever this myth of limited application choices started, it’s not a reality now. Throw any task at me and I can get it done using Mac; most of time even better than a Windows machine. As long as you’re not trying to use your Mac for gaming, you’ll survive in this Windows-centric world. You might even enjoy doing the task on a Mac, since often the task is much easier.