Passbook Development and Design
Why not just create my own app?
In addition to a foot in the door for a new payment architecture, I think this is another bulwark against every single retailer needing their own app. With the templates, hopefully, retailers jump in and easy up on having to build their own app.
The comparison to newstand is apt because I think it had the same impetus. Every publisher thought they had to have their own app and it led to clutter. Apple provided one location and an architecture.
I never use newstand—I hope to be a user of Passbook. In both cases its up to businesses to make something compelling for me.
Can I create my own pass to put into Passbook?
Yes, you can create your own pass, but you'll need to use a pass creator GUI (graphical user interface). That will allow you to have all the necessary components to generate a pass that can be opened in Passbook. Otherwise, you can't just create something without the right documentations and codes as it won't be read by Passbook. PassK.it will release a GUI for users to create their own passes, so it's worth a look for those who want to create passes themselves.
How do I generate Passbook cards, tickets, coupons, vouchers, or gift cards?
First, you have to understand that Apple's merely providing the app for you to store such items. You have to find the proper API or GUI to actually create and generate passes that can be accessed through Passbook. This requires knowledge of coding and specific software to actually use Passbook. PassK.it provides the API and GUI for people who want to use their system to generate Passbook passes or simply the tools for those who want to design them.
Can passes be animated?
No, passes cannot be animated. However, they can be updated with new information, text, and images. If your flight time changes, a notification will appear signaling a change in your ticket. The image on your Starbucks loyalty card can also change (i.e. from a picture of coffee to a muffin) depending on whether the issuing outlet decides to do so.
How do I design a Passbook pass?
Designing a Passbook pass requires the GUI and API that allows you to first create the pass and generate it for use in Passbook. PassK.it provides the API for businesses and consumers to use to create, distribute, and manage Passbook passes. For those simply interested in designs, you'll find that PassK.it will also release a GUI for those to play with and create passes.