Month: November 2014

The Apple Watch doesn't have a release date yet, but the company is looking to encourage third-party developers to work on apps in the coming months. Last week, a new job posting appeared on Apple's official employment website seeking an "Apple Watch Evangelist." The position requires somebody well versed in custom web application development to help others solve any issues with their software.

The Apple Watch poses a unique challenge, as well as unprecedented opportunities, to developers. Not only is it Apple's first wearable device, it has the potential to become the first wearable device to be adopted by the public on a large scale. Its apps will integrate with the existing App Store, but will have to be designed to fit the device and take advantage of its singular functionality.

According to reports, Apple has already released a software development kit, WatchKit, to major social networks. The company's website states that some apps are already in development from large organizations including Major League Baseball and Pinterest.

On Sunday, a leaked transcript of a video call from vice president Angela Ahrendts to employees suggested that the Apple Watch will arrive in stores in the spring of 2015. This should give software developing companies a few months to work on their products before launch. Early news emphasized the device's potential to improve fitness and health care, but the possibilities go well beyond that.

Mobile devices have been a boon for the industry, as they have democratized software development and made it easier for small companies to enter the market. This is only going to become more true as devices become more diverse and the options more varied.

New York City is home to a growing number of tech and media startups, and local authorities and business leaders came together last week to discuss how they can ensure that situation continues. At the first-ever TAMI Talks event, organized by Politico subsidiary Capital New York and real estate services firm Cushman & Wakefield, topics of conversation included how to attract new talent to the city while tapping into the existing pool.

Speakers highlighted the diversity of America's largest city as a strong point, but acknowledged that they should look to Silicon Valley for tips on how best to take full advantage of that diversity. It was noted that non-tech workers in tech companies have salaries that are 45 percent higher than the city's average, but unemployment is very high among black and Latino college graduates.

Another area of concern as the industry welcomes more startups and small businesses is the price and availability of real estate.

"New York is tricky, New York is not easy to grow in," said BuzzFeed CFO Mark Frackt. "When you are American Express or Sony, and you are growing at a rate that is fairly predictable on an annual basis, you can plan your real estate more practically. When you are a high-growth company, it is frankly harder to do."

Some cities have helped their software developing companies by laying down optic fiber networks. A representative from the mayor's office said that possibility has not been ruled out, but that in the meantime authorities are working to ensure that broadband internet is widely available. They hope to encourage competition among providers that will improve service throughout the city.