Finally Live: MeditAItion Launches on Both App Stores!
Have you ever tried to publish an app on the Apple App Store without owning a Mac? Well, I have, and let me tell you - it's about as relaxing as trying to meditate in the middle of a rock concert. But hey, at least it gave me plenty of opportunities to practice stress management!
The Android vs. Apple Journey
Remember how I mentioned the LaTeX compilation stress in my previous post? That was a walk in the park compared to navigating Apple's app submission process. The Android version has been live for a few weeks now, and Google Play made the process surprisingly smooth. Upload the app, fill out some forms, wait a bit, and boom - you're live.
But Apple? Oh, Apple...
Me: "I'd like to publish my meditation app."
Apple: "Sure! Just use Xcode on your Mac."
Me: "I don't have a Mac."
Apple: "That sounds like a you problem."
The Great Mac Hunt
Did you know you need a Mac to publish an iOS app? Not just any Mac - a relatively recent one that can run the latest Xcode version. Because apparently, cross-platform development tools like Flutter aren't quite cross-platform enough when it comes to deployment.
Here's what the process looked like:
- Realize you need a Mac
- Try to find a workaround (spoiler: there isn't one)
- Consider buying a Mac (∼1000€ for a development machine?)
- Finally rent a Mac in the cloud (much better!)
- Learn that cloud Macs have their own special quirks
- Question all life decisions that led to this point
- Use an existing device belonging to another project remotely
The App Store Review Process
After finally getting the build environment set up (only three weeks of debugging cloud Mac issues!), the real fun began with the App Store review process:
- Android Review: "App looks good, promotes wellbeing, doesn't steal data. Approved!"
- Apple Review: "Please provide a detailed scientific dissertation on why the background color #F5F5F5 is essential for user meditation experience."
I'm exaggerating (slightly), but the contrast between the two platforms' approaches is fascinating. Google Play's process feels like a friendly chat with a barista, while Apple's feels like defending a second PhD thesis.
But We Made It!
Despite all the hurdles, I'm thrilled to announce that MeditAItion is now available on both platforms! And you know what? The extra scrutiny, while frustrating, probably made the app even better. Here's what you can expect:
- Android Version: Available now with all features running smoothly
- iOS Version: Finally live with the same great experience (and maybe a bit more polished thanks to Apple's... thoroughness)
What's Next?
Now that we're live on both platforms, I'd love to hear from you! What situations are you using MeditAItion in? Have you found any particularly interesting use cases? Maybe meditating during your own app store submission process?
Some features I'm particularly excited about:
- Custom situation handling ("I'm at the dentist and anxious")
- Voice variety options
- Generation of random meditations with many different techniques
Your Feedback Matters
The app is live, but this is just the beginning. I built MeditAItion because I needed it during my PhD journey, but I want it to be useful for everyone, everywhere. Whether you're:
- Dealing with work stress
- Finding peace in unusual places
- Looking for a meditation companion that understands your specific situation
- Or just curious about AI-powered meditation
I'd love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, and experiences. You can reach out through:
- Email: info@aimeditation.de
- App Store reviews (yes, even the critical ones!)
- Social media
Download Now
Ready to try personalized meditation that adapts to your situation?
Remember, meditation doesn't have to be one-size-fits-all. Your situation is unique, and your meditation should be too.
P.S. If you're an app developer considering publishing on iOS - start looking for Mac access early. Trust me on this one! 😅