AppMobi has launched a new “XDK,” which allows developers to build HTML5-optimized applications for the Web or for mobile platforms. The resulting code can be used to deliver great HTML5 applications, like those found in Chrome’s Web app store, but it can also be used in hybrid apps submitted to Apple’s App Store or the Android Market.
The XDK itself is a Web app, and is available in the Chrome Web app Store for free.
XDK Means Cross-Platform
If you can write code using HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript, you can use the XDK to build an application, says appMobi. There’s no need to learn Objective C or download any other SDK’s. Instead, the new XDK lets you use industry standards to build your apps, as well as appMobi’s own aUX javascript libraries, for things like transitions and scrollers.
The XDK also offers debugging tools with on-screen emulation, local-on-device and remotely anywhere in the world, without ad-hoc builds or security features, says the company. And it works on both Mac and Windows.
Works with PhoneGap, Offers Cloud Services
In addition, appMobi says the XDK is fully compatible with the PhoneGap HTML5 cross-platform development project, which recently launched into version 1.0. Like PhoneGap, appMobi’s XDK also provides access to a device’s native features, such as the GPS, accelerometer, and camera, while also offering touch interaction, gestures, vibration and more.
Developers building apps using the XDK can choose to integrate appMobi’s other services, which aren’t typically a part of an HTML5 development suite. These include things like in-app purchases, rich media push messaging, usage analytics, secure user authentication and live app updating.
HTML5 App School
Along with the XDK, appMobi launched HTML5 App School, an online resource for those new to mobile development. It provides detailed information on all parts of the development process, from conceptualization, through planning and development, to posting the app on app stores. The App School site also provides access to tools, libraries and other resources, forums, code samples, seminars and instructional videos.
What Do You Think?
Some of the early reviewers of the XDK noted they had trouble with Java, but others seemed to have no trouble. If you try it, let us know what you think in the comments below.