Apple, Google Compete Over Developers, Nike FuelBand Team Gone?

The idea of companies offering developers an incentive to offer exclusive titles is nothing new. Apple and Google both have great platforms and millions of users to serve. So it is not surprising to see them wooing game developers to make sure top tier games arrive first on iOS or Android, respectively. So what do these developers get in return? Great placement on the frontpage of each app store.

The Wall Street Journal has a story that offers examples of how this has worked in the past (e.g. for Plants vs. Zombies 2). The window of exclusivity is not too long, but it still could make a difference for some folks. It is simply a good time to be a top developer. But, of course, the idea that everyone can get there overnight is a bit absurd.

Speaking of Apple, it is no secret that the company is working on an iWatch. The device is expected to be released later this year. Not all is well in the wearables market though. Take Nike’s FuelBand for instance. It seems Nike has laid off the majority of the unit responsible for it. Now there are rumors that many of these folks might end up working for Apple. Apple has told everyone that it will offer a new category of products in the future. How aggressive it will be is anybody’s guess.