I’ve compiled the 5 tools below to help optimize the process of designing an iPhone or iPad app. They are all relatively simple tools, but they all serve their own little purpose by optimizing a part of the process of when going from idea to completion.
Rarepad wireframe templates
We designed these 11×17 templates to quickly sketch down ideas during the wireframe process. Download them, print a bunch, and start sketching.
iOS5 GUI PSD
Teehan & Lax have been putting out these hi-res templates for iOS for a couple years now, and we use them all the time if we need to drop in some standard iOS controls without having to recreate the element ourselves.
Liveview
Designing for the retina screen can be a little bit deceiving when you’re looking at it on your monitor due to the difference in pixel density. To ensure the design is looking how it should, we utilize an app called liveview which displays what you’re working on directly on the device. Handy.
Bjango Photoshop actions
I design all of my apps at retina resolution, then when it’s time to export assets for standard resolution, I can just use one of these actions and it will scale everything appropriately. The only thing to note is that you should constantly be aware that you need to have all attributes (drop shadow values, sizes, ect.) in multiples of 2 so that they are scaled down in the cleanest way possible.
App icon template
This icon template is amazing for quickly creating and exporting icons at all required sizes you need for your app store submission, as well as a couple other cool features.
Yes these are great resources thanks for sharing. It can be tough getting into iOS but it’s a great market.
Useful blog, really enjoyed the read, thanks.