Apple will open up its iOS platform further to allow third-party developers to create apps that integrate with 'higher functions' of iDevices, according to CEO Tim Cook.
Speaking at the D11 conference yesterday, the Cupertino boss told AllThingsD that his company would steadily begin to release its grip on iOS and grant access to its APIs to developers.
'On the general topic of opening up APIs, I think you'll see us open up more in the future, but not to the degree that we put the customer at risk of having a bad experience.' Cook commented.
When asked about the level of openness Apple would be willing grant, the CEO responded that those who buy into the Apple brand expect the firm to make choices on their behalf.
Making reference to the customisable elements of Android's lockscreen and Facebook Home's Android launcher, Cook intimated that not all users are open to such tweaks by third parties.
'I've seen some of these settings screens, and I don't think that's what customers want,' he said. 'Do some want it? Yes.'
Despite seemingly revealing a departure from Apple's vice-like grip on its mobile platform, the Apple boss did stress that control would ultimately lie in the hands of Apple. When asked whether Facebook's 'Chat Heads' would make an appearance on iOS, Cook dismissed the idea, saying that whilst 'there's always more that the companies can do together, I don't think that is one.'
It's no surprise that Apple is making noises such as these given that the support of third party developers is key to its battle for OS top spot with rival Android - a platform that counts its open-source nature as a main draw for partners.
by deanq via Featured Articles
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