MeeGo applications can be written using Qt (a rich C++ application framework) and Qt Quick (a Javascript-like declarative language). The MeeGo SDK includes Qt Creator IDE with GUI builder to enable streamlined development. It is currently available for use on Linux and Windows workstations.

The application development lifecycle is shown below.

Develop

The MeeGo SDK creates a virtual environment on your workstation that replicates direct development on a MeeGo OS-based system. Netbook and tablet development images are currently available. You can set up your development environment in a few ways, depending on the capabilities of your host system. QEMU will work effectively on VT-enabled systems running Linux with graphics acceleration. QEMU will also work in Windows but the kqemu solution used today provides poor performance. It is recommended to use a device for debugging on Windows systems.

Debug

You can debug your application from Qt Creator by deploying it to either the virtual machine (QEMU) or a real device. You will be able to see your application running in the virtual machine or on the device while using a debugger which is integrated with the Qt Creator IDE. Standard debugging practices (setting breakpoints, watch expressions, stepping) are supported.

Package

In order to submit your application to an app store you will need to have it packaged as an RPM. Qt Creator generates RPM packages after building when you deploy your application to a MeeGo device. Alternatively, you can manually package an application as an RPM, send it to a device and install it there using the package manager, zypper.

• Packaging MeeGo applications
• MeeGo packaging tutorial

Distribute

The RPM package can be submitted to one of the various application stores, such as AppUp or community repository (MeeGo specific community repository work is in progress).