iOS SQL based app.. direction needed

[mraheel]

Hello friends,


As you've prolly guessed, im planning an application for iphone. But Its a niche app intended for medical students. (yes, its not a game). My reasons for making an application like that is because i miss it. and it'll help me..

Before I start, I wanted to make sure im headed in the right direction. And hence I needed some startups from you guys.

My app requires a database. I've heard that iPhone supports SQLLite. I worked in MySQL in the past. so that shouldnt be tough.

Take for example an application like Dictionary.. requires adding to database loads of words. And that takes time. So I was thinking if i should make a simple script and keep adding my data in MySQL db on my mac, since its gonna be a huuuge list with over a thousand terms etc.. whilst i develop the application in SDK
My question is, would I be able to convert all those tables to sql lite in one go.. or am i wasting my time.. and I should add data once my application framework is complete..

Q2- about the communication between the app interface and sql backend. some suggested hosting the data online and make the app service based and send data via xml. The db clubbed with app it self is the other option. Any suggestion here would be very helpful, as it changes the kinda app im making. My need/preference is the db with the app itself, but im concerned about the app footprint it might leave..

About security and cracking.. are we to add any protective features? specially if you've got a database full of information.

Finally, iPhone Developer program, can I apply to the developer license even before i start developing the app? I heard they take loads of time to accept. So this might be a good time.. and the payment of $99 could be a good motivation itself...

If the questions sound lame... its cuz of my limited knowledge.. excuse me please.
Any word of advice would be helpful..
thanks..

 

[fishkorp]

For database, your Mac also has SQLite, so why not just create the database that way and then put it into your iPhone project? There's a Firefox plugin called SQLite Manager that gives you a GUI for SQLite, works great. It's what I use for creating my database files for iPhone apps.

If you're going to have loads of data, I'd advise against storing it on a remote database. The app is then worthless without a data connection (what if the user has a Touch and isn't near WiFi?).

For security, there are a couple methods, but nothing is bulletproof of course. If you do some Googling you'll see there's a way to check the plist for a hack. It's basic, but can catch some of the cracked apps. There are security methods that cost money as well, don't know of anyone actually using them though.

You can sign up for the program at any time. You don't have to be in the process of making an app or even have an app idea. Apple will gladly take your $99 for no reason at all, lol.

 

[mraheel]

hey fishkorp, thx for the advice man.. im new to mac .. had no idea there was sql lite in mac. But I an online database was already in my mind. So I was thinking if MySQL conversion to sql lite is possible.. im sure it is, how easy would it be, thats the question!.