Create an App Without Coding: iPhone & Android

Developing Mobile Apps Without Extensive Coding

The process of creating an application for either iPhone or Android platforms isn't typically a straightforward, drag-and-drop experience. Although Apple’s Xcode provides a starting point for iPhone app development, achieving even a rudimentary RSS feed reader or portfolio application can demand significant coding effort and iterative testing.

However, for individuals or businesses keen on establishing a mobile presence based on an existing website, organization, or even a simple interactive quiz, Buzztouch presents a potentially valuable, web-based alternative.

Introducing Buzztouch: A CMS for Mobile

Buzztouch functions as a Content Management System specifically designed for iOS and Android app creation. It employs a template-driven approach, allowing users to input their app’s content directly into the online platform.

Subsequently, the system generates the necessary code required to compile and deploy the application. Initial testing confirms its operational effectiveness.

• The platform simplifies app development.
• It eliminates the need for extensive coding knowledge.
• Buzztouch is accessible through a web browser.

Essentially, Buzztouch streamlines the app-building process, making mobile development more accessible to those without deep programming expertise.

The system’s template-based structure facilitates the rapid creation of functional mobile applications, offering a viable solution for various needs.

Previously, MUO detailed the procedures for crafting a basic iPhone application and its submission to iTunes. Reviewing that prior article is recommended, as it forms a foundational element of this process. However, Buzztouch doesn't directly facilitate app listing on iTunes, nor does it handle code compilation within Xcode or its Android equivalent.

Instead, Buzztouch streamlines app development, enabling code export to Xcode for subsequent submission to the iTunes App Store. Given my primary use of iPhone and Mac systems, this assessment will concentrate on iPhone app creation.

The resources offered by Buzztouch are entirely without cost. Its objective is to encourage budding developers, designers, and content creators to utilize its platform.

Necessary Software and Costs

Beyond Buzztouch, a copy of Xcode is required for Mac users. Existing installations of Xcode, whether current or older versions, will suffice. If Xcode is not already present, it can be downloaded from the Mac App Store for a fee of $5.

Upon completion of your application, a developer's license costing $99 is necessary to upload it to the iTunes App Store. This initiates the app review and approval procedure.

App Development with Buzztouch

Comprehensive video tutorials are available from Buzztouch to guide the development of your iPhone application. This article will offer a concise overview of the process involved. The fundamental structure of a Buzztouch app is built upon one or more core mobile iPhone template elements.

For instance, an RSS feed application was partially developed for MakeUseOf.com, though the official MUO app is readily available for download through the App Store. Prior to commencing development, familiarity with the tools and templates offered by the app creation software is essential.

Content creation and collection should precede the actual building process. This mirrors the preparation required for a website. An existing website can even serve as the foundation for a web-based iPhone application. Consequently, Buzztouch apps can be beneficial for a wide range of entities, including realtors, modelling agencies, restaurants, performers, and bloggers.

Initial Setup

The initial step involves establishing a name for your application.

Following this, an app logo must be added. A logo was utilized from MUO’s current application as an example. A professionally designed logo is strongly advised to enhance the app’s visibility and download rate from the App Store. Buzztouch simplifies the process of icon integration.

Content Management

The control panel, as illustrated, requires the addition of a homepage image and introductory details for your app. This is a straightforward procedure. The area labeled "Manage this app's menus & screens" represents the central content structure of your application.

Selecting this tool grants access to a suite of app-building features. For example, to create an RSS feed app for a blog, the RSS feed tool would be incorporated as a Home Screen Menu item.

Available Templates

A diverse range of 20 additional templates are available for incorporating various elements. These include streaming and YouTube videos, an "Email Us" page, multiple-choice quizzes, single images, PDF documents, and a Facebook sharing tool.

Final Polish

Just as with any professionally presented website, meticulous polishing and editing of your app’s content are crucial for a positive user experience.

Code Compilation with Buzztouch

Throughout the app creation process with your project, Buzztouch offers the functionality to compile the code and transfer it to Xcode for review. Following code preparation by Buzztouch, it will be downloaded to your machine.

Within the downloaded folder, locate and click the file named after your application, bearing the "xcodeproj" extension. Initiating the Run button within Xcode will then launch the iPhone simulator included with the developer tools.

While programming skills aren't strictly necessary for application development, a degree of comfort with utilizing this type of technology is beneficial.

Buzztouch App Examples

Several applications have been successfully built using Buzztouch. One example is Ian James' Piano Live, an app created to provide updates to his fanbase regarding upcoming performances and related news.

Another instance is Thrifty Car Sales, which developed a calculator to determine car loan interest rates, alongside offering helpful car-buying advice.

We encourage you to share your experiences with Buzztouch. If you develop an app and make it available for free download on the App Store, please inform us.

We may feature it in a subsequent article as a follow-up to this discussion.