Fast Company takes a look at four App developers with major ideas.
All age 16 or younger, they’re part of a generation raised with multi-touch and social media, and they’re cranking out profitable ideas for new devices and platforms as fast as manufacturers let them.
Stephen Huber, 14, Chicago, IL
When did you get started?
I started getting into the app development when I was around 13 years old. At the time, I had a YouTube channel and reviewed iPhone applications and other technology products. I was asked by Elias Pietilä from Helsinki, Finland, to review his past application, Pajatzo. Elias and I formed a great working relationship, and he asked for my help with his upcoming app, Wooden Labyrinth 3D. I helped design several of the custom levels built into the paid version. Once the app was approved by Apple and live on the App Store, I did some marketing work including, as we like to call, “Forum-blasting,” setting up media coverage, and giveaways.Apps currently in the store:
Currently, I have one app live on the App Store: Wooden Labyrinth 3D. The developers of this app were Elias Pietilä, Tapani Pihlajamäki, and me. We also had some great musicians make a Spanish guitar soundtrack: Olli Santala & Jan Oksanen. Wooden Labyrinth 3D is currently priced at $2.99, with a free version available.How many units have you sold?
Free and Full version combined, Wooden Labyrinth 3D has shipped over 7.5 million copies. The Free version has made it to the No. 1 spot in Free Games, and it won the Student Apple Design Award in 2009. We are very pleased with how well the app has done.What apps are you working on?
I am currently working with Qvik on a simple, free, ad-supported drawing application called “Qvik Sketch.” It should be available in a week or two. Basically, you can create some really nice drawings in a very short amount of time.Photo by Fast Company.