iPhone sales figures

 Just re-read fellow Kiwi David Frampton's blog (Majicjungle, of Chopper fame) - this post in particular which has some great lessons on pricing in the App Store.
 
Although a little early to tell for sure yet, most of the lessons in David's Blog are sound.  i just wanted to dwell on one in particular.
 

"The #1 app in the paid top 100 is usually getting more than 10,000 sales a day. And at a good time, or with a good app, you might get 50,000 sales for a day or two. At #15 you’re looking at about 1,500 sales a day, #50 roughly 500 sales, #100 roughly 300 sales. (all early 2009… Hi future people!, bad search!)"

 
Based on these figures above, I'm happy to report that sales in the App Store are a little better than that now (May 2009).  Sheepish is currently #76 In games, and (estimated) around #140 overall.  Currently Sheepish is selling around 500 units a day.  According to Davids figures, this is about on par with an app at #50 several months ago.
 
Sales for #50 in early 2009 = same as sales for #140 in May 2009
 
I would say that this is due purely to the growing number of people with iPhone and iPod touch devices.  It is great news that developers (especially smaller companies and individuals) are able to make a decent sum with an App that isn't in the top 100. 
 
The huge problem for everyone (and this is never going to go away) is getting featured somehow - by Apple, in Blogs/reviews, cross-promotion etc.  Our current success is due to being featured as an Apple Staff Favorite.  All I can say to developers is keep the quality of your App really high so that your App is perceived as high value, and people will recognise this.  Apple/bloggers/reviewers will recognise it and give you good reviews, and Purchasers will recognise it and part with their hard earned cash.