Can program without Objective-C or a Mac

Texas-based Genuitec has released a new version of MobiOne, an iOS programming environment that now lets users create and test native iOS apps without needing to purchase or use a Mac, and without needing to learn Objective-C. Previously limited to creating web-based apps only, version 1.4 features a PowerPoint-like design studio that lets inexperienced developers assemble native iOS apps using drag-and-drop elements, and tested in the cloud or on actual iDevices.

Purchasing a Mac has long been a "hidden cost" to Windows developers who wished to get into the lucrative iOS app market. Using its experience in building webapps, MobiOne now has a cloud-based "AppCenter" for testing their apps in a private environment on browsers or through iTunes onto devices running iOS 4 or higher. While knowing code is not required for successfully building an app, developers who have a background in web technologies like HTML5 and CSS3 will be able to troubleshoot and customize apps beyond the drag-and-drop designer.

Testing links can be shared either by e-mail or SMS to enable multiple-device testing and previews. A free 15-day trial of MobiOne is available, and the program sells for $99 per license. The company plans to release an Android-based version in March. A video demonstrating the previous version for the illustration of the core concepts is available below.

by MacNN Staff