Rob Brennan

I am impressed at how much fun it is to develop and tinker with apps for the iPhone.  With the recent announcement of the iPad - and the millions of iPhone and iPod Touch devices that are out there - there is no better time than now to just jump right in and see where the road may lead you.

One of the questions I am asked constantly is, "How can I get started in iPhone development?"  For some, there is a sense that perhaps the ship has sailed and the opportunity may be lost.  I am pleased to say that nothing is further from the truth.  The mere thought of developing applications in Objective-C is enough to cause trepidation among seasoned programmers.  In fact, if you have had any experience in object oriented programming (OOP) then I am confident you will be able to slide right in and understand Objective-C fairly quickly.

For those without any programming experience...Come on in, the water is fine. From the materials I have come across, even beginning programmers (for inspiration, check out this fourth grader who developed an iPhone app) should find developing apps for the iPhone to be a real treat. Not only will you learn solid programming concepts and practical applications of theory, you will also find that it's hard not to smile when you build your very first app and run it on your iPhone (note - this is only available with the iPhone Developer Standard Program for $99).  Bear in mind that you don't have to pay $99 to learn how to develop for the iPhone.  You can download the iPhone SDK (Software Development Kit) for free and develop your apps in the iPhone simulator.

So what do you need to get started?  At a minimum, you'll need an Intel-based Mac running either Snow Leopard or a recent version of Leopard.  If you have an iPhone/iPod Touch, then you'll probably want to enroll in the iPhone Developer Standard Program so you can deploy your apps to your device and have the ability to sell in the iTunes App Store when the time is right.  

With the basics out of the way, it's time to chart a path towards understanding iPhone development.  For me, I found it useful to table my existing programming background and view iPhone development through a whole new set of eyes.  Start off simple and allow yourself the freedom to not have all the answers.  Dream big with your ideas - and gradually build up your knowledge.  If you overlook some fundamental concepts and ideas, it will cost you dearly down the road.  So relax, and develop a general awareness and understanding of your talents and abilities.  Build those up as your skills progress.  

Now, it's time to chart a roadmap to success.  My roadmap to success has consisted of:

1. Introduction to the Objective-C Programming Language - This resource (direct from Apple) is a free guide to provide a general understanding of Objective-C.  If you are going to be developing native apps for the iPhone, this is a must-read.
2. iPhone Application Development for Dummies - If you're like me, you'll want to jump right in and get started.  There's no harm in that; just bear in mind that you'll want to establish a solid foundation in Objective-C as well as develop a solid understanding for fundamental elements of iPhone design.  This book is a great way to introduce you to key concepts along with allowing you to explore the SDK and crank out some fun apps.
3. Programming in Objective-C 2.0 (2nd Edition) - Did I mention that a solid understanding of Objective-C is going to make your life easier?  Originally, I thought this particular book would be a hum-drum review of theory - but it is a quick read and will only strength your understanding of Objective-C (as well as bring out areas that you may not have known needed attention).  There are some things you may find yourself re-reading - but the time you invest now will offer a huge time savings for you later.
4. iPhone for Programmers: An App-Driven Approach - This book is an absolute must-have for the aspiring iPhone developer.  You will apply practical skills here and crank out some production-ready apps.  This serves as a great mentor for those wanting to learn solid programming approaches while creating useful apps in the process.
5. Stanford University: iPhone Application Development (iTunes U) - When you're ready to test your skills, be sure to check out this freely available course in iTunes U.  In addition to watching quality lectures from some of the industry's best, you can participate in numerous online resources which feature discussion areas (even for those not officially enrolled at Stanford), code samples, slides, notes, and a whole bunch of additional resources.  Be sure to challenge yourself and complete the assignments that are mentioned, as well.  It will serve as a great benchmark to see where your skills are - and where you may need improvement.

That should be enough for now.  I hope you've enjoyed this list, and please - let me know if you like these suggestions or have a few more that should be on there.  Last and certainly not least...do not forget to have fun and dream big.  Developing for the iPhone is a truly rewarding experience.  Until next time...keep it phunky!