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Interview with Timothy DeWees Creator of Android App My Collection

Posted Wednesday, February 11th, 2009 at 5:00 am by Android Tapp 1 Comments

User Rating3.33/5

If you’re looking for a way to stay organized or keep a track of your CD’s, Movies, Books and Games on a mobile device, then you should try My Collection for Android. We recently interviewed the creator of My Collection, Timothy DeWees.

AndroidTapp.com: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m an independent developer working mostly in my spare time. I have a wife, 3 kids, a dog, and a very belligerent cat.

AndroidTapp.com: Why did you create your app?

My wife and I were at the store one day and she wanted to purchase a movie we already owned but she didn’t believe me when I said we already had it. I thought how nifty it would be to check that right at the store, and just scan it when I purchased it.

AndroidTapp.com: What technology did you use in creating your App and why?

The Android API and Elipse. I use Subversion for source code control.

AndroidTapp.com: About how long did it take to create your App?

The first version, originally called My Movies, took me about 12 hours. I have around 50 hours into the current release.

AndroidTapp.com: What is a cool uncovered tip or trick you can do with the App?

I’m able to store the database on the SDCARD by overriding getWritableDatabase(). It’s not recommended but it’s the only way to do it. Some of my users have thousands of movies.

AndroidTapp.com: What other interesting uses can come from the App?

I have some people using the app as a wish-list. They scan in their books, games, CD, and movies at the store and purchase them later.

AndroidTapp.com: Can you tell us about future feature enhancements with your App?

That is really up to the users. Well over half of my features come directly from user feedback.

AndroidTapp.com: What did you really like about creating Apps on the Android platform?

It was really simple and quick to get moving.

AndroidTapp.com: What are some things you would like to see improved with Android?

Ugh, I’m developing quite the list. I would like the SDCARD to be used more for app storage (my use of it was a hack). I would love for an app to be able to pick it’s running locale. Cupcake is adding global local settings but some people live in the UK but want to look-up US movies.

AndroidTapp.com: What is your opinion of the Android App Market’s distribution method? In comparison Apple’s model (strict control over the iTunes store) or the Windows Mobile model (no store at all).

Well, I got in so I’m happy… I like that there is no strict control process and people are free to contribute which leads to great innovation.

AndroidTapp.com: What is your Opinion on the state of the Rating/Feedback system in the App Market?

It depends really. I would love to use the developer console to see user feedback and it would be nice to respond to user feedback. Something as simple as, “I’m sorry your having trouble, write me so I can help” Some people leave 1 star ratings because they don’t need your app and not because there is anything wrong with it.

AndroidTapp.com: Do you have plans on releasing Apps for other martkets (i.e. iPhone, Windows Mobile, Blackberry, etc.)?

I don’t really want to go through the trouble of developing for the other platforms. I like what Android stands for and I’m obviously not in it for the money… yet…

AndroidTapp.com: Must-have Android Apps?

I use ShopSavvy a lot. I also really love the AccuWeather app. I’m buried in a blizzard right now and AccuWeather actually told me it was going to happen. Must be psychic!

AndroidTapp.com: What advice would you give to another aspiring mobile application developer?

Jump in and start working. Use the groups and don’t get to mad and the market users that leave silly comments (my favorite is asking for features the application has).

AndroidTapp.com: Can you tell us what future Android Apps you have brewing?

Nothing as of yet. I wrote this application because it is useful for me. When something else in my life goes wrong, I’ll try to fix it with software again.

Tim thank you for taking the time to interview with us and keep up the great work! Don’t forget to check Timothy’s Android App Review; My Collection.

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