Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Apple Pushes Adobe to the Brink

It's clear that developers everywhere are upset at Apple for their recent policy changes towards cross-compilers. What was less clear, until today, is how Adobe would respond.

A few days ago I pronounced imminent litigation.

Today we learn that Adobe will shift it's focus to Andriod based devices starting... Now.

The hazy part of the story - and the real question for developers (Adobe) - is how consumer demand and client wallets will respond to Adobe's position.

With the upcoming Droid Incredible going head to head with the iPhone 4G, I predict client demand for iPhone apps to increase exponentially.

Not to mention the iAd platform may kick off a new era of media spending from clients big and small. And did I mention that Apple is kicking out all other ad networks from iPhone? It looks like Cupertino is going to make sure that content on the iPhone stays locked down.

Does a rising smartphone tide raise all ships? Will developers be forced to play nice with Apple in exchange for staying in business, or will Andriod-based platforms stimulate enough user - and as a result client - demand to keep the market competitive? One thing is certain - it's an exciting time to be in interactive advertising.

Nick Kinports (@ADMAVEN) has worked in the interactive world for over 9 years, and helps the Fortune 100 identify unmet consumer needs, create ideas to fill those needs, and bring them into market. He currently works at Maddock Douglas.