I know what I'm trying to do and how I'm trying to do it, and it will work fine on an iPhone in terms of the hardware limitations. Using libraries (dynamically linked) can actually reduce memory usage if you have more than one program that needs access to the same functionality, as the library only needs to be loaded into memory once. And one way or another, re-implementing chat protocols is a complete waste of my time.
I'm just wondering:
1. Is it possible to use dynamically linked libraries? (I think not)
2. Is it possible to use statically linked libraries, in light of the different architecture, etc?
3. If any of the above is possible, how?
I didn't read the docs exhaustively, but the parts I read said you are only allowed to install files to your app's folder. So you could use a dynamic library, but not a shared one--you'd have the library installed with your app's bundle.
But any library you use (dynamic or static) is going to have to be ported to the iPhone--either by you or by someone else.
libpurple is an IM libaray, right? You can do an IM app for the iPhone, but, because you aren't allowed to run background tasks (as far as I know), you're only going to be able to receive IMs while the app is running.
I think part of Apple's "rules" for app development state you can't use 3rd party libraries. Better read them over again.
Are you sure about that? That doesn't sound right. I know you aren't allowed to host third-party plugins for some reason, but I didn't see anything about third-party libraries.
iPhone is not a desktop or laptop computer. It is a PDA/Phone with severe memory restrictions, tight battery usage and only a subset of full OS X features. An app can't remain running in the background and constantly poll the network on an iPhone, it just isn't intended to be used that way.
I suggest learning to program on Mac OS X, sign up and get the iPhone SDK, learn the differences, and then figure out what to do as far as iPhone software.
??? I'm not sure how this relates to the question.