PhatUpdate is sufficiently customizable that no programming is needed to add it to an existing application, PhatWare claims. However, the SDK offers two C++ samples meant to demonstrate how to share PhatUpdate among multiple products. Included dcumentation also explains how to create an optional user DLL that can modify PhatUpdate behavior and extend its functionality, PhatWare says.
As mentioned above, basic functionality on PhatUpdate allows it to check for program updates via the Internet (seen below left), then download and install new versions automatically. Optionally, it can provide a list of additional available applications, show a "Buy Now" menu (below middle), and install newly purchased software for the user (below right).
PhatUpdate can check for application updates (left), advertise additional software (middle), and install any purchases (right)
(Click on any to enlarge)The PhatUpdate program was previously built into the company's
PhatNotes,
PhatPad, and
CalliGrapher applications.
Stan Miasnikov, president of PhatWare, said, "After demonstrating PhatUpdate at a Microsoft Windows Mobile Partner Summit, I was approached by others with an interest in adding such a feature to their own products, which inspired me to create a SDK for it. The PhatUpdate SDK makes it much easier to communicate and update versions for a developer's entire user base."
Pricing and availabilityPhatUpdate and the PhatUpdate SDK is available for $599 per royalty-free site license, including one-year maintenance and updates and two hours of engineering support via phone or email. The maintenance plan can be renewed for $199 per year, according to the company.
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