In today’s mobile world, standing out as an app developer can be a challenge. Apps are expected to have cloud connectivity. This allows user to access the data from a variety of devices, as well as let hidden processes be handled outside of the user’s view. If you have ever played a game that keeps track of player scores on leader boards or manages user accounts, then you understand the importance of these services. They definitely enhance the user experience. In some cases, the services are integral to the core functionality of the game or app. Because of the amount of work involved, it’s also understandable why some games or applications don’t take advantage of such services.
For many developers, the management of the backend connectivity can be a nightmare. Buddy hopes to change that. As of May 30th, the Buddy Platform is out of beta and available for developers.
Buddy is a “backend as a service” provider started by two former Microsoft employees. It is cross-platform, and allows developers to focus on the functionally of their apps as opposed to having to write and maintain web services. This frees developers to focus on their application, as opposed to doing a lot of web management.
Jean-Christophe Cimetiere, Director of Developer & Parner Programs for Windows Phone had this to say. “Microsoft is excited to see the Buddy Platform offer Windows Phone developers exceptional support. Buddy’s new offering will help developers build connected apps dramatically faster, and seamlessly share backend services across platforms, including Windows 8.”
If you’re looking forward to more applications that let you interact with your friends who are using Android or iOS, then making the backend easier for developers could definitely pave the way for that to happen. If you’ve had dreams of playing a game on your phone, then continuing the same game on your desktop, this can certainly help developers implement that.
In celebration of its launch, until July 31, 2012 Buddy is offering access to the platform for free for up to 2 million API calls per month. If you’re a developer that has tried out Buddy, give us your impressions.
Source: Buddy (via WMPowerUser)
