

Under the Radar
Relay
From development and design to marketing and support, Under the Radar is all about independent app development. It's rarely longer than 30 minutes. Hosted by Marco Arment and David Smith.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 1, 2016 • 30min
21: App Store Rejection
Tips on avoiding rejections by Apple's app-review staff and what to do when your app get rejected.
This episode of Under the Radar is sponsored by:
Hover: Simplified domain management. Use code REVIEW to get 10% off your first purchase.

Mar 24, 2016 • 30min
20: Improving the App Store, Part 2
In the second of a two-part series, we discuss some specific ideas on how the App Store could realistically be improved.
This episode of Under the Radar is sponsored by:
Rollbar: Full-stack error tracking for all apps in any language.

Mar 19, 2016 • 29min
19: Improving the App Store, Part 1
In the first of a two-part series, we discuss whether the App Store needs improvement for our benefit, or whether it's working well enough for Apple and customers already.
This episode of Under the Radar is sponsored by:
Tapstream: A total app marketing toolkit.
Links and Show Notes
Towards a Better App Store
Phil's 1st Tweet about the App Store
Phil's 2nd Tweet about the App Store
View what the 'new' apps look like

Mar 11, 2016 • 29min
18: Choosing a Pricing Model
Considering paid-up-front, freemium, ad-supported, and completely free business models for David's newest app.
This episode of Under the Radar is sponsored by:
Hover: Simplified domain management. Use code COCOA to get 10% off your first purchase.

Mar 3, 2016 • 29min
17: Work-Life Balance
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance for consultants and the self-employed.
This episode of Under the Radar is sponsored by:
Igloo: An intranet you’ll actually like, free for up to 10 people.

Feb 24, 2016 • 29min
16: Designing for Misuse
Accommodating unexpectedly heavy usage, basic web security, and avoiding user-generated spam.
This episode of Under the Radar is sponsored by:
DevMate: License and protect your Mac apps, deliver updates to customers, collect crash reports and feedback, and much more. Create better apps easier.

Feb 17, 2016 • 30min
15: Marketing at Launch
Marketing, promotion, and celebration of successful launches and major updates.
This episode of Under the Radar is sponsored by:
Tapstream: A total app marketing toolkit.

Feb 12, 2016 • 30min
14: Linux Servers for App Developers
An introduction to running your own Linux servers.
This episode of Under the Radar is sponsored by:
Igloo: An intranet you’ll actually like, free for up to 10 people.
Links and Show Notes
Marco's tips from last year
Percona Xtrabackup for MySQL

5 snips
Feb 5, 2016 • 30min
13: External Dependencies
The discussion kicks off with the impact of Parse's shutdown on app developers, revealing the hidden struggles of relying on external dependencies. It dives into the risks of vendor lock-in versus the quick wins of third-party services. The conversation also highlights the supremacy of custom backends, detailing the advantages of having control over server management. For newcomers, practical tips on Linux management provide a solid foundation, reinforcing best practices for security and efficiency in server operations.

6 snips
Jan 28, 2016 • 30min
12: Apps With Personality
Discover the impact of personality in app design versus neutral branding. The discussion highlights how personal touches can enhance user engagement and foster loyalty. Explore the balance between individual representation and corporate identity in customer interactions. Learn how apps like Carrot Weather stand out through unique branding and playful features, ultimately advocating for intentional design choices that reflect the developer's humor and perspective. Authenticity becomes the key to connecting with users in a crowded market.


