AppCraver recently spoke with Stephen Orelli, Co-Founder, President of Sobits. He shares his experiences developing for the iPhone and iPod touch.

When did you start developing apps for the iPhone? Did you have previous experience as a developer?

I started Sobits in November 2008 with my cousin Sean Orelli. Prior to Sobits my experience was in the toy industry, but Sean had previously programmed in Java, Flash, and PC platforms.

What / how many apps have you made so far?

Sobits has released two Apps so far. Our first was Hint Sprint, a clever rhyming word game. On May 29th we released a very entertaining application called The Mood Setter. Users can set their iPhone to a fireplace or candlelight while playing “seductive” songs. It makes me laugh every time.

What type of apps/games/software inspires you? Where do you get your ideas?

Classic Nintendo games are always a great source of inspiration.

How do you settle on the price point for your apps?

The value of something is what someone is willing to pay for it. If you lower your App to 99 cents and nobody buys it, uh-oh.

What has been the best thing about designing for the iPhone?

By far the most awarding thing about iPhone development is seeing sales from other countries. I know it is 2009, but it still amazes me that someone in Australia has my program on their cell phone!

What has been the biggest challenge about designing for the iPhone?

Becoming visible amongst the competition. There are a LOT of great products out there already.

Is your company venture backed or privately held?

Sean and I run Sobits independently, but we did receive $25,000 for winning Stony Brook University’s DARE entrepreneur competition.

Do you have any other apps in the works?

Of course! Over at Sobits “headquarters” we’re always brainstorming! We are releasing a new arcade game in July, as well as developing some original game characters/game-play.

What apps do you have on your iPhone?

Right now I’ve been reading books on Classics and playing Doodle Jump.

What do you like to do when you’re not coding for the iPhone?

I still have a day job and am attending grad school part-time pursuing an MBA. With what little time I have left, I play guitar and hang out with friends.

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app category: Interviews

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