Apple Announces New Features in iTunes Connect, iAd for Developers

Apple has posted two new announcements to the News and Announcements section of its iPhone Dev Center, notifying registered developers of the latest changes in iTunes Connect, and the iAd Network. An updated iTunes Connect Developer Guide (version 6.0) provides details about the new iTunes Connect features, and how devs can take advantage of them, while the iAd for Developers program is now open for those looking to better promote their apps.

“iTunes Connect now offers exciting new features and enhancements,” Apple states in one announcement. “The iTunes Connect Developer Guide (version 6.0) provides details about these features and how you can take advantage of them, including:

- Using the new Version Release Control to choose when your new app version goes live on the App Store;
- Delivering binaries using Application Loader;
- New states for your app including Prepare for Upload, Pending Developer Release, and Processing for App Store;
- UI Enhancements that indicate when you can edit your app information;
- Game Center functionality for the setup of Achievements and Leaderboard Categories for sandbox testing purposes."

As usual, developers will find the iTunes Connect Developer Guide available for download on the homepage of iTunes Connect, after logging in with their ID.

iAd for Developers is also open now. Touted as a great way to promote one’s applications, the new iAd for Developers program allows devs to advertise their own apps to millions of users across the iAd Network. Apple explains that, “When a user taps on an ad for your app, they can download it from the App Store without leaving the app they're in.” Those interested in using the service to increase their visibility in the App Store ecosystem are encouraged to visit Apple here and learn more about how they can drive more customers to their app.

As revealed last month, iAd JS provides developers with the foundation to design and create iAd rich media ads that incorporate audio, video, graphics, and animation. iAd JS is available for iPhone Developer Program members.