I'm having trouble understanding just what exactly BT Server 2.0 is and what it means for us aspiring developers. The readme file tells me to install on my web page, assuming I have a web page. Perhaps someone could explain the requirements of using BT Server 2.0, who it's targeted to, any advantages/differences over v1.5, should rank beginners stick witn v1.5. Expected costs of having your own server / web page to host BT Server 2.0.

Currently apps you produce rely on bt's own servers. Thus when you make updates, your app updates. Buzztouch 2.0 is a step in the direction for you to host your info and develop from your own environment. As buzztouch grows, I can see this as them being proactive in moving the load level off of their platform, and letting developers be able to better fine tune where their info is. For the time being, there is no reason not to continue using 1.5.. It wouldn't hurt for you familiarize yourself with the server, but I don't believe it is necessary component for an aspiring developer. (this is what I had gathered)

That was my understanding, thanks for the conformation. Does anyone have some insight into costs, requirements for hosting (is that the correct terminology) BT Server 2.0?

I second that question. I really liked having in Android 1.4 the ability to update a doc or pdf and have it update in everyone's apps with out having the whole app update through the market. It looked like 1.5 didn't have those capabilities. From what I understand, it looks like getting my own server would address this and some other things. I too would like some information on the best hosting info. Free or paid if it is much better. What is everyone else using? Thanks for the help. Kudos to BT.

Shane, 1.5 offers the same updating as 1.4, just way more options when it comes menus and design. The readme text does have some basic info on what you need server wise (LAMP set up). I have not yet gotten a chance to try to install on my web server, but I am guessing you could get server space for as little as $5 a month that would be capable of hosting your apps (very much dependent on apps / traffic). Personally I would look at how you are using Buzztouch. If you are designing apps for paying clients, I would strongly consider setting up a server. If buzztouch was to disappear tomorrow, you hosting the server will allow everything you have created to live on, and your clients will stay happy and you can continue to develop. If you are using buzztouch for your own apps, especially free ones, then if Buzztouch disappears tomorrow, then all you disappoint are people who downloaded your app for free. Again my 2 cents.

Tons of hosts...tons of options. Almost exactly the same idea is WordPress. Why in the world would you host your own blog when you can have somebody else host it for you, for free? Fact is, there are millions folks that want exactly that - control. There are another million that don't mind the inherant risks involved with putting all your eggs in somebody elses basket. BT Server 2.0 is an amazing solution for some, not for all. As far as the differences in the apps it creates - huge difference. The PlugIn nature of how it works make the apps much much easier to extend, share, turbocharge. Imagine having a directory of 1000 different types of screens you could easily drag into your app - that's were it's headed. Our focus in the very near future will be to help you guys better understand why this is important and how you can begin to get better at doing what you go - making apps. We look forward to the day when we are like a quite partner in the background and loads and loads of developers and aspiring developers are making simple little screens that do cool and fun stuff that we can all just 'add to our apps.' Peace from Monterey

At a Boy to David and the dedicated team that have reduced the barriers to entry to App Development. I am excited and amazed by the tools they have exposed me to.

It seems to me that events us aspiring developers will want to use BT Server 2.0. The problem is that now we have one more technological hurdle (tech speech) to over come. Compliments to the BTUG wiki and especially the map page (so needed that for my soon to be released app). Perhaps someone could do a page on setting up a server, because as mentioned there are so many options it's hard for us newbies to know where to start. Again many thanks to one and all for this site, advise and future developments.