Introduction

We work our way through life with constant reminders of the importance of first impressions and final goodbyes. From an early age, these two circumstances are of extreme importance in our everyday lives.

Hellos and goodbyes are important in our iPhone apps as well. Providing a first impression is absolutely essential, as it will set the pace and initial user opinion about our entire application. Likewise, the user will retain a lasting impression based upon the experience we provide when they leave our app for a phone call or text message, and then return back looking to use our app again.

In this chapter, we'll discuss the finer points of application launching, closing, and multitasking. We'll discuss a few techniques that will help ensure that users enjoy their first experience, their transition back to other iOS apps, and their return to our application.

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