App Store: The Good, the Bad, and the Glitches

Episode Overview

David Heinemeier Hansson (DHH) joins the Subscription League podcast to discuss his fight against App Store policies and monopolistic practices. From launching the HEY email app to addressing challenges in the subscription space, DHH shares his bold perspectives on app distribution, developer rights, and the future of platforms like iOS. He emphasizes the need for competition in the ecosystem and highlights Apple's complex relationship with privacy and revenue generation.

For noteworthy quotes and key takeaways, read the article -

Episode Topics at a Glance

• The launch and challenges of the HEY email app
• Why App Store policies are harmful to developers and consumers
• The economics of monopolistic platforms like iOS
• Comparing app distribution models: Apple vs. Android vs. Mac
• Thoughts on regulatory interventions and EU's Digital Markets Act
• Solutions for improving developer freedom and user choice

More about David Heinemeier Hansson

David Heinemeier Hansson is a programmer, author, and entrepreneur. He is the co-founder and CTO of 37signals, creators of Basecamp and HEY. DHH is also the creator of Ruby on Rails, a widely used web application framework. In addition to his tech achievements, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. With a passion for developer advocacy, DHH has been a vocal critic of monopolistic practices in the tech industry, especially around app distribution and payment systems.

Books by DHH:

• Rework
• Remote: Office Not Required
• It Doesn't Have to Be Crazy at Work

Links

• David Heinemeier Hansson’s Twitter
• 37signals Website
• HEY Email App

Timestamps

• [00:01:10] Early career and the creation of Ruby on Rails
• [00:06:35] Success stories with Basecamp
• [00:10:45] Challenges of launching HEY and fighting Apple
• [00:18:20] Breaking down App Store monopolies and the need for change
• [00:24:50] EU regulations: Hope or hindrance for developers?
• [00:32:15] Proposals for fixing app distribution ecosystems

Episode production by Mobdesign: https://podcasts.mobdesignapps.fr