Lab 1
Choose an application from the market.
Find two similar applications.
Compare and contrast these apps in terms of interface design, functionality, cost, revenue generating methods, etc
Exercise
I have decided to compare 3 applications that allow the usage of the phone as a remote keyboard and/or mouse over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Remote Shortcuts Free;
Description; "Remote Shortcuts is the application that allows you to remote control your favorite programs installed on a PC simply using your Android phone as a real remote control."( Reference)Unified Remote;
Description; "Easily the most feature-filled Android-PC remote. Turns your Android device into a WiFi or Bluetooth remote control for your Windows PC. Control your favorite programs, mouse, and keyboard."(Reference)gPad Remote Touchpad/Keyboard;
Description; "With gPad, transform your device in a universal remote. Automate your actions!gPad is a wireless touchpad, configurable remote and keyboard for PC/Mac."(Reference)Comparison Table;
| Remote Shortcuts | Unified Remote | gPad Remote | |
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| Screen | Each application has its own screen, "mimicking" the look of the application to control. | The screen are more unified, there are simple screens with "standard" buttons. | The application screens have the "standard" buttons, but a background image is allowed to identify the program being controlled. |
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| Applications | Limited due to screens | Limited (more on Full) | Unlimited(gPads can be shared) |
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| Server | Linux and Windows | Windows | Windows and Mac |
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| Support | Website (Italian) and YouTube videos | Website with Wiki, FAQ and Tutorial | Website with FAQ and YouTube videos |
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| Communication | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi |
| Mouse/Touchpad | No | No | Yes |
| Cost | Free and Donations | Free | Free |
| Revenue | Pro Version (€1.29) | Full Version (€2.75) | Pro Version (€1.99) |
| Total Score | 4 | 3.75 | 4.25 |