ABSTRACT
What makes a mobile app a viable proposition? Games or programs can be output to different platforms so what are the distinguishing qualities that make something appropriate to work for mobile and handheld technologies? This study looks at the development of an app, TechnoSphere, with lead creative artist, Jane Prophet. The app is based on a program first developed in the 1990s as an Internet artificial life project. It is now being redeveloped as a mobile app. The case study shows how the same core concepts can be kept but a new version can be developed that explores the potential of different platforms and delivery systems. The case study also discusses the design stages used in making the app and how various subtleties of design are being considered, for example what makes something appropriate for a Chinese market.
