With Xively they are getting a tool that enables device designers to build connectivity directly into the design process while providing a cloud-mobile connection between the end user app and the connected thing, whatever that happens to be.
Dropbox sees its differentiator as being the gold standard for end-user apps.
Each end-user app can be used as a collection tool by the app creator, invisibly collecting and forwarding data to the app creator with or without the knowledge of the end user.
At risk of droning on, there is similar thinking behind GetJar's focus on currency and app discovery, because it not only helps the end user find apps that will actually help them solve their problems or more enjoyably procrastinate, but that will get developers' apps in front of more eyeballs and provide incentive to consumers to actually download them.
The SPLT acquisition is a cornerstone piece of its new focus on mobility services, with the aim of offering everything from shared rides in cars to company buses on the same, easy to use platform with end user smartphone apps and easy ride booking.
And to the end user, the app appears to work just like your own Android phone's browser, only a bit slower.
The company says 60 million end users consume apps from the marketplace on a daily basis, not only benefiting major brands but also lesser known software developers.
He says the 25 million end users use apps and services from developers who work with distribution partners and sponsors that include Kyocera, Softbank and Sharp.
But PreApps, a new Boston-based startup, is today launching a platform that intends to act as a marketplace, connecting end users to app developers who can share their apps (and recruit beta testers) — all before they ever bring their app to the iOS App Store, Google Play or the Windows App Store.
Plus, it could be confusing to end users that app developers suggest using different "trigger" phrases to launch their apps.
