The term denotes the collective resources, tools, and knowledge base available to individuals and organizations creating applications for Apple’s mobile operating system. It specifies a particular, albeit hypothetical, future iteration of that operating system. This includes software development kits (SDKs), programming languages such as Swift and Objective-C, frameworks, libraries, documentation, sample code, and developer support programs.
A well-equipped and supported ecosystem for application development is essential for platform growth and user experience. It encourages innovation, facilitates the creation of diverse and high-quality applications, and ensures that developers can leverage the latest hardware and software features. Historically, advancements in these resources have corresponded with significant expansions in the functionality and capabilities of mobile devices.