FAQ

About our service plans

  • Q1. What is APPLIYA STUDIO service?

    It is a low-cost, fast, and easy way to create and sell iPhone app.
     Reasons for the low-cost
    -Low-cost development program that even individuals can utilize
    ->Service fee 599USD (for release of paid app)with 40% royalty payemnt of net sales.
    ->Service fee 599USD + free distribution cost 300USD (for release of free app).
     Fast
    -Actual time to create an app - from sending the form to release of app- at the fastest takes only 11 days
    ->As long as all materials is prepared, app can be created in 3 business days.
    ->As soon as Apple approves the application, it can be released to over 75 countries world wide.
     Peace of mind
    -You can create an app without any need for programming skills
    ->With our service: "contents+application template (CAT)=application". We service creators who do not have programming skills.
    -Guarantee Assurance
    ->APPLIY STUDIO is a service offered by APPLIYA Inc. which is part of SoftBank holdings. To improve the iPhone market in Japan and worldwide, APPLIYA Inc. works with various creators to first increase the iPhone app market. In order to do so, we provide a low-cost, fast, and reliable service.

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  • Q2. What type of plans do you carry?
    We carry the following 3 service plans:Basic,Free Release,Customized Development

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  • Q3. What is a "Basic" plan?
    This plan allows you to use your content to create an app easily and quickly. With only an app development fee of just 599USD, you can sell your app to over 80 countries, to over 40,000,000 iPhone/iPod touch users (based on data from August 2009). Whats more, you receive a 40% royalty of the total net sales of your app!

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  • Q4. What is good about the "Basic" plan?
    The high royalty rate you receive back. We pay the creator 40% of the total net sales while 30% goes to Apple for sales commision and 30% goes to APPLIYA for use of our platform and services.
    Just for reference purposes, most artists and writers who publish their work in traditional media receive 6 to 10% royalty.

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  • Q5. For whom is the "Basic" plan" most suited?
    For those who have ready-to-sell content available. Content holders or modeling or other agencies/businesses who carry or manage many types of content. Recommended for illustrators, cartoonist, painter, photographers, writers, and many other types of artists.

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  • Q6. What is a "Free Release" plan?
    Share your works worldwide easily and quickly with an app that's free for users to downlaod. With a app development cost of just 899USD, you can reach to over 80 countries worldwide and to 40,000,000 iPhone/iPod touch users (based on Auguts 2009 data). One of the best ways to promote your content or business!

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  • Q7. What is good about the "Free Release" plan?
    The number of downloads for free apps is anywhere from 10 to 100 times more than that of paid apps. Furthermore, free apps can be released to 77 countries worldwide. We'll provide you with reliable download data based on each country, allowing you to determine the popularity of your content in different territories.

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  • Q8. For whom is the "Free Release" plan most suited?
    For those who wish to promote or announce their content or business. Great for buisnesses, groups, and even activists who wish to endorse more than the app itself. Also recommended for those who wish to collect data regarding the latest market demands and trends.

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  • Q9. What is a "Customized Development" plan?
    You can create an iPhone app that is one of a kind. Our Custom Development plan gives you the ability to modify (add) features of the CAT to match your content and needs. By adding original features on APPLIYA STUDIO's CAT, there is no need to create an app from scratch which helps keep the development cost low.

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  • Q10. What is good about the "Customized Development" plan?
    Using sales and marketing data along with our experienced team of programmers and designers, APPLIYA STUDIO will help provide you with options to create a custom app that best suits your content.

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  • Q11. For whom is the "Customized Development" plan most suited?
    Businesses with a less restricted budget who are looking for new ways to promote and sell their content or product.

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How to create an app with APPLIYA STUDIO.

  • Q1. What is a CAT?
    CAT (Content Application Template) is a template provided by APPLIYA Studio where you place your contetnt (material) within the template.
    Content (material) + CAT (program) = iPhone app

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  • Q2. What kind of CATs are available?
    We have various types of CATs available to create your original iPhone app. You can build creative utility apps such as calendars and clocks, or game apps such as memory games and slide puzzles. We also offer options for creating digital books and catalogues. Please choose the CAT which best suits your content.

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  • Q3. Can I choose the CAT myself?
    Yes. You can select the CAT you wish to use. The cost of creating an app is the same for all CATs. Please download the "RequiredMaterials.zip" and prepare the materials according to the included PDF file. By mixing and matching your content with the CAT, you can create an all-new entertainment app.

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  • Q4. I don't know which CAT to choose.
    On the CAT information page, you will notice special functions, ways of use, recommended content, and other information for each CAT. For more information, we have provided a video clip of some sample apps that use our CATs. Furthermore, those who own an iPhone/ iPod Touch can download free apps to test and see for your self. To download the app from the App Store, please click on the link provided in the CAT information page.
    about CAT page

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  • Q5. I want to know more about a certain CAT.
    For those who want to know more about each CAT, we have provided free apps that you can download to test the app. To download the app from the App Store, please click on the link provided in the CAT information page.
    ※For those who do not own an iPhone/iPod touch a video description of each of the CATs is available.

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  • Q6. Is there a CAT with GPS functions?
    The Sound and Tap Player has GPS functions where the number of taps is calculated and displayed on the world map included inside the app.
    Sound and Tap Player

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  • Q7. What is the file format for the required materials?
    The types of materials and the format may differ for each type of CAT. The basic types of formats are PNG, JPG, and Microsoft Excel. For an exact list of required materials, please review the required materials list (PDF) available inside the "RequiredMaterials.zip" for each CAT on each CAT's information page.

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  • Q8. Is there a standard resolution setting?
    Yes. Please have all images set at 72 dpi (72 pixels/inch).

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  • Q9. I have an idea but no content. Can I still apply?
    Unfortunately, without the contents we cannot create your original app with a CAT. However for those who are still interested on turning your idea into an app, please contact us using the "Contact Us" form.

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  • Q10. I have content that does not fit in any of the CATs listed.
    Normally, creating an original app from scratch will cost any where from couple thousand dollars to over $10,000. However, with APPLIYA Studio service, creating an app costs only 599USD.
    If you wish to develop an app from start without the use of our CATs, please contact us.
    Additionally, if you are a programmer and wish to develop a CAT, please contact us.
    Service Inforamtion
    Inquiry

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  • Q11. What is a "content creator"?
    "Content creator" refers to the artist or the content's original creator. For example, illustrators, musician, writer, photographer, and other genre of artists. Of course, non-artists can create an app as well, as long as they have their own original content.

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  • Q12. Who can apply for the service?
    Anyone who has original content regardless of individual or group (company) can use our services.

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  • Q13. What is a Calendar CAT?
    The Calendar CAT is one of the best ways for content producers to get their work seen everyday. Users can create custom calendar images using art you provide, and the image is used as their device wallpaper.
    Calendar CAT

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  • Q14. What is a Image Viewer CAT?
    Image Viewer is a CAT that displays images in a simple format that includes unlimited zoom! You can include captions therefore, it can be used not only as a portfolio but as a catalogue and picture book as well.
    Image Viewer CAT

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  • Q15. What is the Image Viewer caption used for?
    The caption is an optional feature on the Image Viewer to show a text description over each image. You can include information such as artist information or background information for each image. Furthermore by providing a URL, the user can access a webpage of your choice directly from the app itself.

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  • Q16. What do I write inside the captions?
    Captions can include any information the content creator wishses to include. Caption details range from art information, to where to buy as well as artist information, personal commments, etc.

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  • Q17. What is the Memory Game CAT?
    The Memory CAT is a new, yet nastalgic, game that challengers users to use their memory to match up tiels to reveal background images. After clearing each stage, the revealed image can be saved as a wallpaper. Great for kids' games!
    Memory Game CAT

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  • Q18. What is the Stamp CAT?
    Like stickers on a photograph, the Stamp CAT allows users to liven up your artwork with fun graphics. It's a fun and interactive way to showcase your works.
    Stamp CAT

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  • Q19. What is the Stamp Puzzle CAT?
    Like stickers on a photograph, the Stamp CAT allows users to liven up your artwork with fun graphics. It's a fun and interactive way to showcase your works.
    Slide puzzle CAT

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  • Q20. What is the Clock CAT?
    The Clock CAT is a multimedia clock that can use up to 400 unique, high-resolution images as backgrounds. The images change automatically every minute, providing an excellent way for you to showcase your art, photography, or whatever else you'd like to display.
    Clock CAT

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  • Q21. What is the Touch to Find CAT?
    The Spot the Difference CAT is a game that lets users find the subtle differences in two similar images. This type of game is familiar, fun, and easy to set up!
    Touch to Find CAT

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  • Q22. What does "file name" on the required materials check list mean?
    The file name category states what each material (contentn) file name must be saved as. Please save the file name according to the list for failure to do so will result in resubmission of the required materials.

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  • Q23. Could the content itself contain anything?
    Although Apple does not provide a list of restricted contents, from our experience, the following contents are more than likely to be rejected during Apple's examination of the application.
    1) Use of and related to Apple product(s) and logo
    -Apple logo or company name
    -Picture of Apple product
    -Imitation of Apple product (such as product's silhouette)
    -Apple product name
    Furthermore, including Apple's product names or its company name will usually result in rejection of the app.
    2)Sexually explicit content
    -No nudity, regardless of whether the image is real or an illustration.
    -Text that suggests sexual content
    3) Violence
    -Real (photograph) or realistic scenes of gore
    -Real (photograph) or realistic scenes of violence (such as mutilation of body parts)
    -Images that encourage violent behavior

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  • Q24. Can you translate the content itself to another language?
    Unfortunately, the service does not include translation. However, if you wish, we can introduce you to a reliable translation company. For more information, please contact us.

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  • Q25. I do not own Microsoft Office Excel.
    For customers who do not have Microsoft Office Excel, please use the spread sheet functionality provided under Google Docs.

    1. Open Google document. If you do not have a Google Docs acoount, you must first create an account.
    http://www.google.com/google-d-s/tour1.html
    2. Please upload the excel document (provided by APPLIYA) using Google Docs.
    http://dekiru.impress.co.jp/contents/102/10204.htm
    3. After entering all required columns, please save the file as excel.
    http://dekiru.impress.co.jp/contents/102/10205.htm
    Google document.

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  • Q26. When choosing a title for your app, what should you consider?
    If an app with the same name has already been registered on App Store, it is not possible to successfully carry out the application process.  Since many short titles and often-used phrases have already been taken, we ask that in deciding on a title, you choose as originally as you can, or use a combination of multiple words.  If the title you submit has already been taken, and we cannot continue with the application process on your behalf, we will inform you in an email, and tell you of the necessity to choose a different title.  However, please understand that this will increase the time it takes from initial application to final sale of your app.

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How to apply.

  • Q1. What is "Materials for App"
    It is the materials (content) required to create an app. The list of required materials is avaiable for each CAT. Please download the "RequiredMaterials.zip" from the information page for each of the CAT.

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  • Q2. What is "Data for App Store"
    During the submission process, you will need to enter the information previously prepared for the Submit form.To learn more about when to submit the "register.zip" file, please view the submission process manual (pdf).

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  • Q3. When do I subtmit "register.zip"?
    During the submission process you will need to upload the zip file in the Submit form after you have selected the type of CAT. To learn more about when to submit the "register.zip" file, please view the submission process manual (pdf).
    * "register.zip" is inside the "RequiredMaterials.zip".

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About our service fee.

  • Q1. How much does the APPLIYA STUDIO service cost?
    Regardless of the type of CAT, the app development cost is as follows:
    - Standard plan: 599USD per 1 CAT & 40% royalty of net sales
    - Free Release Plan: 599USD app creation cost + 300USD free distribution cost

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  • Q2. How can you keep the creation cost so low?
    -Reduce cost of app development
    ->When creating an original program, it costs anywhere from few thousand dollars to over $10,000.00. However by creating several app templates called the CAT, we are able to keep the service cost low.

    -Reduce time needed to register app
    ->By having the content creator prepare the required material similar to the submission format of Apple, it helps cut much of the app development cost.

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About Apple's inspection.

  • Q1. What is app examination?
    App examination is an inspection that Apple conducts before releasing the app in their App Store (the only iPhone app distribution source). In order to release your app on the App Store, all aspects Apple's requirements must be met. If the app does not meet all of Apple standards, it can be rejected and cannot be released on the App Store.
    The programing of each of APPLIYA STUDIO's CATs has already been approved by Apple. Therefore, in almost all cases, approval of the app created with APPLIYA STUDIO's CAT will depend on the content itself.

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  • Q2. What will be examined?
    The entire app including images and text used inside the app as well as app description information you entered for the App Store data. All data you submitted in the submit form will be examined by Apple.

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  • Q3. What type of contents does Apple reject?
    Although Apple does not provide a list of restricted contents, from our experience, the following contents are more than likely to be rejected during Apple's examination of the application.
    1) Use of and related to Apple product(s) and logo
    2)Sexually explicit content
    3)Crude or extreme violence
    For more information, please view Restricted Contents page.
    Restricted Contents

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  • Q4. How long does the examination period last?
    Unfortunately, we cannot provide a set time period for the amount of time required for your app to finish with the examination. If your app does not include the restricted content, in most cases, the app will be ready for release in about 3 to 4 weeks. However, depending on Apple, the examination can take over a month.

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  • Q5. How do I get a notice of the examination result?
    If the app is approved, the app will automatically be released in the App Store. At this point, the app release URL (inside App Store) as well as promotional codes will be sent to you via e-mail.
    If the app is rejected, we will notify you of the reason for rejection as well as further instructions.

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After your application has approved by Apple.

  • Q1. Will APPLIYA STUDIO promote and commercialize my app?
    APPLIYA STUDIO's CATs include the option for Facebook integration, allowing your users to promote your app on one of the world's most popular sites.

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  • Q2. What is a promotional code?
    It is a code that can be used only for those with a iTunes US account to download the app for free. You can give this code to bloggers, have giveaways on social networking sites, or give it to friends as a way to promote your app. At APPLIYA STUDIO, we will provide you 45 promotional codes with the notification of release of your app via e-mail.
    *Note: each promotional code can only be used once.

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  • Q3. Whats the difference between number of downloads report and royalty statement?
    The number of dowloads report is provided every two weeks and is only issued for use as basic app download data. It does not inlcude returns or cancellation of apps due to problems during download. Therefore, the royalty statement issued at the end of each month should be considered as the official data.

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  • Q4. How does the royalty work?
    After the 1st month of sales, APPLIYA STUDIO will calculate the app's royalty amount based on Apple's Download Report and issue a royalty statement notification. The month that the royalty amount reaches 599USD, we will deposit the royalty at the end of the following month.
    However, due to settlement of all accounts twice a year (in March for July- December sales and in September for January- June sales) even if the royalty amount does not reach 599USD we will deposit the total royalty the following month (April and October respectively).
    About Payment of Royalty

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  • Q5. When will I get my royalty?
    The first royalty report will be available one month after your app first goes on sale. After the first report, reports will be sent via email every month. If the royalty amount reaches or is over 599USD, the royalty will be deposited at the end of the month following receipt the royalty statement.
    About Payment of Royalty

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  • Q6. I did not receive my royalty money at the end of the following month after receiving the royalty statement notification.
    Please check whether the amopunt of royalty has reached or is over 599USD. If the royalty statement states that you have reached 599USD yet you still did not receive your deposit at the end of the following month, please contact us using the inquiry form.
    Inquiry page

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  • Q1. How does PayPal work?
    PayPal is used to securely send payments over the internet. You can choose to pay from your PayPal account balance, a credit card, debit card, or bank account. To make a PayPal purchase, select PayPal during checkout on the www.toysrus.com website and choose your method of payment. Your funds are transferred immediately and securely.
    Sign up for PayPal now

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  • Q2. How Do I Create a PayPal Account?
    To get started, simply fill out the PayPal registration with your desired account type, country of residence, home address, and login information.
    Sign up for PayPal now

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  • Q3. How secure is PayPal?
    PayPal is highly secure and committed to protecting the privacy of its users. Its industry-leading fraud prevention team is constantly developing state-of-the-art technology to keep your money and information safe. When you use PayPal to send money, recipients never see your bank account or credit card numbers.
    Sign up for PayPal now

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  • Q4. How Do I Contact PayPal Customer Service?
    For the fastest response, you may access the user-friendly Help Center. Developed by the PayPal Customer Service team, this Help Center contains a comprehensive information database. Simply type a question into the search box to receive a complete answer.

    If you do not find the information you need in the Help Center, PayPal Customer Service representatives are available to assist you. Send an email for a prompt response or contact PayPal directly by phone:

    Customer Service: 1-402-935-2050 (a U.S. telephone number)
    4:00 AM PDT to 10:00 PM PDT Monday through Friday
    6:00 AM PDT to 8:00 PM PDT on Saturday and Sunday
    Sign up for PayPal now

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  • Q5. About Paypal
    PayPal is an alternate method for purchasing your order. It enables any individual or business with an email address to securely send payments online. With a PayPal account, you can choose to pay with your credit card, debit card, bank account, or PayPal account balance for any purchase you make. Your credit card and bank numbers are never seen by the seller or merchant. Plus, you're 100% protected against unauthorized payments sent from your account.

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  • Q6. PayPal Process
    If you select PayPal as your payment option, you will continue through the standard checkout process then automatically proceed to paypal.com to complete your payment.

    Once you have been redirected to paypal.com, you will have 25 minutes to complete the payment before your order is cancelled.

    For more information, visit the PayPal Help Center.
    Sign up for PayPal now.

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