iOS

Definition

iOS is a mobile operating system created and developed by Apple Inc. exclusively for its hardware devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch.

Analogy

Imagine a city where all the buildings, roads, and infrastructure are designed and built by a single company. This company also sets the rules and regulations for how everything in the city should operate. iOS is like that city, and Apple is the company that designs, builds, and governs it.

In other words

iOS is the software that runs on Apple's mobile devices, allowing them to function and providing a consistent user experience.

Why is iOS important?

It's one thing to know what iOS is, but that is worthless if you don't know why you should know what a code repository is in the first place. Let's break down the importance of this tech term based on two high-level categories. We'll walk through an explanation as well as provide a score, 1-10, that shows you how much you should care about iOS.

Pre-Product: 8/10

If you're in the ideation phase or almost ready to start development, knowing about iOS is crucial. As a startup founder, understanding the iOS platform will help you make informed decisions about whether to develop an app for Apple devices. iOS users tend to be more engaged and spend more on apps, which can be a significant advantage for your startup.

Live Product: 8/10

If your product is live, iOS is still important. Ensuring your app runs smoothly on iOS devices and adheres to Apple's guidelines can help you maintain a positive user experience and avoid issues with app updates or removal from the App Store. Staying up-to-date with iOS updates and new features can also help you stay ahead of the competition and provide a better product for your users.

Use cases of iOS

So you know what iOS is, by definition. You know if you should care about it or not depending on your situation as a business/company/product. To dig in deeper, we will walk through some tools and processes so we can make sure you really have a solid grasp on iOS.

Example: iOS App Development

Developing an iOS app involves using Apple's development tools, such as Xcode, and programming languages like Swift or Objective-C. You'll need to follow Apple's Human Interface Guidelines to ensure your app provides a consistent user experience and adheres to the App Store's requirements.

Example: App Store Distribution

Once your iOS app is developed, you'll need to submit it to the App Store for review and distribution. This process involves creating an App Store Connect account, preparing your app for submission (including screenshots, descriptions, and pricing), and waiting for Apple's review team to approve your app.

Example: Supporting Multiple iOS Devices

Your iOS app will need to be compatible with various Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads, with different screen sizes and hardware capabilities. This requires designing your app's user interface to adapt to different devices and testing your app on multiple devices to ensure a consistent experience.

Key Takeaways:

1. iOS is the mobile operating system developed by Apple for its devices, such as iPhones and iPads.
2. For startups without a product, understanding iOS is crucial for deciding whether to develop an app for Apple devices.
3. For startups with a live product, maintaining a positive user experience on iOS is essential to avoid app updates or removal issues.
4. Examples of iOS include app development, App Store distribution, and supporting multiple Apple devices.