An Introduction to iOS Programming (video) – by Alasdair Allan


Summary:very nice tutorial for beginners

Introduction to iOS Programming is a practical guide to iOS programming and to becoming Apple Developer in general. It is divided into few parts: how to become a developer, how to write simple application (start developing using XCode), how to build and distribute application within iTunes. If you have never ever coded using Objective-C, Alasdair will show you the basics of Objective-C and Cocoa Touch as well. Material in Objective-C related section is well prepared and well presented, however. If you are not aware of the langue and you are about to start working with it make sure to buy some other books – devoted entirely to Objective-C. I think that ~25 minutes lecture, no matter how well conducted, is not enough to provide audience with the required level of knowledge.

I have watched the video just after purchasing Apple Developer program and one thing is great for sure. When it comes to all the certificate related issues video worked just great – each and every developer has to have certificate in order to develop for iTunes. All you have to do is follow the video. After 20 minutes you are done. Your environment is ready to go and you can connect your devices to XCode. Of course you can learn it by yourself, or by reading Apple’s tutorials. In my case it was simply much easier to follow the tutorial.

When it comes to developing applications using Objective-C I’d argue whether you will heavily benefit from the Introduction. If you are new to Objective-C and XCode you will have to dig for more information anyway. However, it is a good start. You can, at least, get in touch with XCode, project concepts and so on. You will also gain basic knowledge regarding Objective-C and Cocoa Touch.

Lastly, you will be guided how to put your application into iTunes and how to avoid common mistakes. This section is very similar to the first part. All you have to do is follow the instructions.

This is very interesting material, however, it is targeted at people who are at the beginning of the iOS adventure. On the other hand, even though it is simple it will not provide you with a comprehensive knowledge. You will have to look for some additional resources – definitely. But still, this is very gentle and very well organized introduction to iOS Programming.

Product page: http://oreilly.com/catalog/0636920021025/