Android developers raise more concerns about Marketplace, Google Checkout, and lack of profits
Survey reckons 90% of apps downloaded less than 10,000 times
Everyone seems convinced that 2010 will be the year of Android phones - and hopefully Android paid apps too - but while we're in 2009, it seems there remains plenty of things for Google to fix.
The latest catalog of opinion comes from Skyhook Wireless, the hybrid location-based tech company.
Its Fall Android Application Developers Survey interviewed 30 developers about their experiences with Android.
57 percent said they weren't satisfied with their profits from Android apps.
90 percent reported per app downloads of 10,000 or fewer.
53 percent reported per app downloads of 5,000 of fewer.
Particular ire is projected towards the Android Marketplace, with 82 percent of developers thinking it makes it difficult to notice apps, and the Google Checkout process. 43 percent of developers think they would sell more apps if Android used other billing methods such as carrier billing.
Ironically however, Skyhook says developers remain enthusiastic about Android - using the term "widely excited".
"Most have faith in the platform," it concludes. "In order to retain developer enthusiasm, Android must develop effective methods for app monetisation. Otherwise, developers will lose interest the platform, and focus their resources where they can be monetise their apps."
You can find out more details from the Skyhook website.
