I have never really understood how AC comes out with versions. I think maybe it is that we are such a tight knit group that beta testing gets out. But, everyone talks about when the next version will be out weeks to months before it does. I think that puts pressure on AC (like v7/PM in the past) to get a product out.
Other companies go through the alpha/beta process in the background with no fanfare. Beta testers are given specific steps to do and pass back the info. They are also given bonues for all of their work. WHEN the final product is ready and completely bullet-proof, current users are notified. An example is CurrentWare (an incredible product for control of Internet usage). I am using CurrentWare and have no idea that a new version is in the offing. Then, I receive an email which brings up this website:
http://www.currentware.com/It gives you the overview, new features, hardware and software requires and other things you would want to know about the product. I hardly read it, because I know it will have everything prior plus additions. I know I am not telling anyone anything new. Now to be honest, maybe if there was an active userboard, I would find out bugs I wasn't aware. But, it's just nice to click on the download and install and have it done in less than a minute.
If an iPhone app will be lost, that should be in bold red letters.
In fact, the Currentware site is so well done, I would copy it. Not to replace AC's site, which is vastly improved. Just that type of layout.
