Few hours ago, I just announced Kwik version 3, from now on, simply called Kwik (check the video below for the full session), I think it is important to write a few words on the things we have discussed in the event.
What is new?
When I first blogged about Kwik “Next”, I mentioned the three main development goals:
- Better code infrastructure: meaning access to the latest benefits of Lua and Corona (the engine behind Kwik), no more limitations regarding project and variable sizes and improved performance. Kwik will use Corona’s new Storyboard API (currently in development/testing), which has a much better memory handling and performance management;
- Ease of Use, Better User Experience: this was my main focus in the past months. Making sure the learn curve for new users is simpler yet faster. For old time users, offering productive tools to speed up designing time and making it easier the task of learn new features when they are needed;
- New features: they will come in different ways: a) as improvement of current features and b) totally new, “out of the box” options.
The first two goals were shown in our today’s presentation and I really hope you agreed they are important additions to your experience with the plugin. As soon as we can distribute the newest Storyboard from Corona, I will start adding the new “new” features, meanwhile, the focus is to improve the current ones.
Why a subscription instead the perpetual license model?
With the constant changes coming from iOS and Android, Corona needs to update their code and access to functionality all the time. For example, something written with Corona or Kwik one year ago, will not run anymore because new features were added or changed from Apple or Google. Keeping adding new features and, at the same time, managing old code is a real challenge that most companies cannot afford anymore (take a look at the big players, including Adobe, Microsoft and Apple and you will see they are moving to subscriptions offerings only).
Availability and why should I move to a paid beta now?
Kwik is available for upgrading right now (more here) for a discounted price, including additional 3 free months on the subscription. I’ve learned with Kwik 1 that “free” beta-testing does not work. Paid users will spend real time with the tool finding bugs and providing the feedback we need. My “give back” to them is a really attractive discount.
If you are not a paid user, you will have the chance to purchase Kwik 2 till the end of September. I do understand some people will prefer to pay for a perpetual license and this is the reason they can buy the product in the next few days. However, if you want to have all the new things coming in the near months, you will be able to buy Kwik starting in October.
As always, your feedback are more than welcomed and appreciated.
Cheers,
