The LA Times Technology Blog reports that iPhone developer Craig Hockenberry doesn’t like that there’s lots of free and inexpensive apps on the Apple App store.  Apparently the 2 million downloads a day that Apple claims to be supporting just aren’t his cup on tea.  On his blog he writes:

We have a lot of great ideas for iPhone applications. Unfortunately, we’re not working on the cooler (and more complex) ideas. Instead, we’re working on 99¢ titles that have a limited lifespan and broad appeal. Market conditions make ringtone apps most appealing.

Perhaps you hadn’t also noticed the glut of $5, $10 and $20 applications that aren’t programmed well or don’t provide any value over the other apps, including your very own Twitteriffic.  While it’s wonderful that you’re an “App of the Year” I’d have to ask you what makes your $10 version worth so much more than the free version along side it in the store?   Some ads missing at the bottom?  If you’re looking into a twitter app you’re willing to pay for, $5 seems to be the going rate.

Shopping list reminders and to-do apps also seem to flood the $5 and $20 range.  Most look very simplistic and don’t handle simple scheduling well.

Apple also isn’t in the habit of providing refunds for the store.  How would you feel if you paid $20 for an app that was no better than its web counterpart and just as buggy?

I’d have to agree with the Times blogger – it’s time for the app authors to put out trial versions.  Make it happen, Craig!