

543: A Developer's Summer, with Underscore David Smith
Jul 5, 2020
David Smith, an independent iOS developer known for his innovative Apple Watch apps, shares his unique insights on the developer's journey during the summer. He discusses the transition to remote experiences during WWDC and the balance between accessibility and personal interaction. David dives into the excitement of building health apps, the rhythm of seasonal development, and how user feedback shapes his work. He also highlights the impact of sleep tracking updates on competition and creativity in app development.
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WWDC Tradition
- David Smith has attended 12 WWDCs since 2009, making it a regular fixture in his family life.
- His children grew up with him disappearing for a week in June to attend this conference.
Virtual WWDC: Pros and Cons
- WWDC2020, being virtual, was easier for information access and beta management than previous in-person events.
- However, it lacked the direct interaction with Apple engineers, valuable for developers.
WWDC Costs
- Attending WWDC costs small business developers at least $3,000-$5,000.
- David Smith appreciates the virtual format's inclusivity, eliminating this financial barrier.