Security Matters: Best Practices for Securing Your Mobile App

In an era dominated by smartphones and mobile applications, ensuring mobile application security is paramount. As technology advances, so do the threats that can compromise sensitive user data and the overall integrity of your application.

 

With over a decade of expertise, GoodWorkLabs stands as the world’s No.1 Mobile App Developer, trusted by a diverse clientele ranging from Fortune 500 giants to innovative startups. Since 2013, we’ve tackled complex challenges across industries and continents, offering simple solutions powered by cutting-edge technology. Our team, comprising 250+ talented members, has successfully delivered 500+ projects, impacting over 300 million end-users globally.

 

In this blog, we will talk about how to secure your mobile application and how to build a secure application, safeguarding both your users and your reputation.

 

1. Data Encryption 

  • A key component of bolstering mobile app security is data encryption. Encryption acts as a strong barrier that keeps the sensitive information your mobile app handles safe and hidden from prying eyes. 
  • An extra layer of protection against unwanted access is created by encrypting data while it’s in transit and at rest. 
  • Robust encryption techniques are essential for making intercepted data incomprehensible to malevolent parties, especially when it comes to private user data like login credentials and personal information.
  •  This protects the security and integrity of user information by ensuring that even if unauthorized parties are able to intercept the data, its content will remain incomprehensible. 

2. Secure Authentication 

 

  • In mobile app security, establishing strong authentication procedures is essential to preventing unwanted access. 
  • A vulnerability exists when passwords are the only means of authentication; hence, multi-factor authentication (MFA) must be implemented for increased security.
  •  With MFA, the traditional password is deftly combined with an extra layer—usually a temporary code texted to the user’s mobile device. 
  • Since this dual-factor solution requires both knowledge (password) and physical ownership (mobile device), it greatly increases the challenge for attackers attempting to gain illegal access. 
  • MFA strengthens the app’s defenses and guarantees a more secure user authentication procedure by demanding this dual verification, acting as a formidable barrier against unwanted entrance.

3. Secure Code Practices

 

  • In order to reduce vulnerabilities while building mobile apps, it is essential to ensure secure code practices.
  •  It is necessary to start the development process with security in mind. 
  • Frequent code reviews find and fix potential flaws, while regular library and framework updates are necessary to patch known security concerns.
  •  Using safe coding techniques, such as strong output encoding and input validation, is important for preventing common vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS)
  • Developers lower the danger of exploitation by building a durable foundation through a methodical fortification of the codebase. 
  • This proactive strategy improves the mobile application’s overall security posture by protecting user data and putting in place a strong defense against changing cyberthreats.

    Best Practices for mobile app security

4. API 

 

  • For mobile apps that use Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to connect with servers and outside services, API security is critical. 
  • It is essential to secure these APIs in order to stop data breaches. To successfully limit access, strong authentication and permission procedures must be put in place. 
  • By encrypting data while it’s in transit, HTTPS protects the integrity and confidentiality of data transferred between servers and applications. Furthermore, user input validation is essential for preventing injection attacks like cross-site scripting and SQL injection. 
  • By adding these safeguards to APIs, developers strengthen the app’s overall security posture by establishing a secure channel for data transmission and reducing the dangers of unwanted access and potential exploitation.

5. Session Management 

 

  • In mobile application security, efficient session management is essential for preventing illegal access and session hijacking. 
  • Make advantage of secure session handling techniques to ensure that every user interaction results in the creation of a distinct session ID.
  •  To reduce the window of opportunity for possible attackers looking to take advantage of idle sessions, enforce session timeouts. 
  • By limiting the length of active sessions, this preventive measure lowers the possibility of unwanted access. Moreover, establishing secure logout processes in place to end user sessions safely and avoid any lingering vulnerabilities.
  •  Mobile apps can develop a strong session management framework by integrating these techniques, protecting user interactions and data from potential security risks and illegal access.

6. Device Security 

 

  • Mobile apps can improve overall resilience by putting device security first, shielding user data and the application from potential attackers. 
  • To strengthen vulnerabilities, it is important to motivate consumers to upgrade their devices with the most recent security patches on a regular basis. 
  • It’s also important to advise against activities like rooting or jailbreaking devices since they jeopardize their built-in security features
  •  Implementing device fingerprinting adds an additional degree of protection by identifying and authenticating authorized devices.
  • By limiting the number of devices that can access the app, this technique reduces the possibility of unwanted access. 

7. Data Minimization and Consent 

 

  • Reducing the possible impact of data breaches can be achieved by concentrating on gathering and retaining only the information required for the application to function. 
  • It’s important to communicate openly with users; make sure they understand how data is collected and have their express agreement. 
  • Giving users fine-grained control over their privacy settings promotes confidence and gives them the ability to personalize their preferences for data sharing. 
  • This user-centric strategy complies with changing data protection laws while still protecting individual privacy. 
  • Mobile apps can foster a privacy-conscious atmosphere by upholding data minimization principles and getting informed consent. 
  • This can reduce the dangers associated with excessive data exposure and strengthen user confidence in the app’s dedication to protecting their personal information.

8. Penetration testing 

 

  • One proactive step that is essential for improving mobile app security is penetration testing. 
  • Regular testing makes it possible to find potential vulnerabilities and fix them quickly. 
  • By simulating actual attacks, ethical hackers can conduct a thorough assessment that identifies security flaws before malevolent actors can take advantage of them. 
  • This procedure provides a dynamic assessment that reflects changing threat landscapes, going beyond standard security measures. 
  • Developers keep ahead of emerging risks by regularly putting the app through security tests, strengthening it against unanticipated weaknesses. 
  • In addition to safeguarding user data, this proactive strategy maintains the app’s reputation by giving users the assurance that their data is safe and that the program is actively resistant to changing cyberthreats.

9. Incident response plan 

 

  • To respond to security breaches quickly and effectively, incident report plans must be created and updated on a regular basis. 
  • The plan makes sure that everyone is aware of their obligations in the case of an incident by outlining roles and duties precisely. 
  • Information may be disseminated more quickly and accurately when communication standards are established. 
  • Frequent drills help the team become even more proficient at responding quickly and coordinating. 
  • This proactive strategy reduces potential harm, lowers downtime, and supports upholding user confidence. In addition to lessening the effects of security events, an efficient incident response plan shows a dedication to user data security and overall app resilience.

10. User Education 

 

  • User education plays a pivotal role in upholding a secure mobile environment alongside technical measures. 
  • Emphasizing the importance of strong passwords, users can be educated on creating and maintaining robust authentication credentials. 
  • Awareness about the risks associated with public Wi-Fi enlightens users on potential security threats in such environments. 
  • Stressing the significance of keeping devices and apps updated reinforces the importance of patching vulnerabilities promptly.
  •  By promoting a security-conscious culture among users, an informed user base becomes an active line of defense against common security pitfalls. 
  • This approach not only empowers users to take proactive steps in securing their mobile experience but also fosters a collaborative effort in maintaining a resilient and secure mobile app ecosystem.

 

It takes a variety of approaches to secure your mobile app, including proactive planning, user education, and technical protections. By implementing these  practices and following the above mobile app security checklist you can  strengthen your app’s defenses against the constantly changing cyber threat landscape in addition to safeguarding the sensitive data of your users. Investing in mobile app security is an investment in your application’s credibility and long-term success in a time when privacy and trust are essential. 

 

Join the league of satisfied clients who have experienced digital transformation and success with GoodWorkLabs. Whether you seek top-notch iOS app development or innovative cross-platform solutions, our team is ready to turn your vision into reality, ensuring your brand remains at the forefront of the digital landscape. To know more please visit our website. 

 

Forecast 2021: Mobile App Development 

Top mobile app trends to watch out in 2021

 

Decades have passed since mobile phones made their way to our lives. From click to touch, they have only been evolving year-on-year to give the best possible experience to the consumers. Likewise, mobile apps have introduced creativity and changed the way people live, work, shop, play, connect, and relax. The year 2020 came in to completely change our lifestyles and taught us to embrace multiple technological developments. These changes had a positive effect on the mobile app development industry; which eventually led to the growth of small, moderate, and large companies.

In research by Statista it is predicted that by 2021 the number of mobile users worldwide will grow by 3.8 billion. Therefore, it can be concluded that enterprises and businesses will easily meet their goals with the mobile app optimised with advanced technologies.

In this article, we discuss which technologies are expected to be deployed in 2021 and beyond. To make the best use of the mobile app in 2021, below are the top 3 possibilities to discover the leading trends in mobile app development:

 

Top 3 mobile app development trends in 2021

 

Data, AI, and ML will continue to lead

Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) have completely redeveloped the face of mobile app development in the last few years. The use of these leading technologies in mobile app development has exponentially accelerated the growth of businesses and companies across the globe. A perfect combination of AI and ML backed with data can save companies a lot of money, grab user attention, and increase revenue. A basic example of AI incorporation: Today, many organisations tend to incorporate AI chatbots into their mobile applications – the use of this is increasing daily.

 

Apps optimised for wearables 

Over that last few years, portable and wearable technology has seen a great expansion in the market and expected to grow further in the coming year. Smartwatches, health monitors, and training straps are the most trending wearables. It is noted that wearable technology has grown by 15% in the last four years. Therefore, developing applications that better link to portables and wearables through smartphones using IoT is the need of the hour.

 

Mobile applications with a touch of reality – AR and VR

An Augmented Reality (AR) app is a software application that blends the real-world environment with interactive visual, audio or other content. Businesses and companies can better engage their customers and increase their revenue by using VR and AR technologies in their mobile applications as they provide an unforgettable experience to the users. Globally, these innovations are used for smartphone users to create improved customer interface that can help marketers boost profits. Therefore, the use of AR and VR is expanding every day across the industries – from healthcare to games to travel to education to sports.

 

GoodWorkLabs, leading mobile app development company

GoodWorkLabs is one of the leading mobile app development company in India, the USA, and Europe. We have a proven end-to-end experience of developing successful mobile applications for many of the world’s leading brands and companies. Should you be looking for a mobile app developer, then connect with us at +91- 9863077000 or [email protected] for a free 1-hour consultation of how we can help you.

 

iOS vs Android App Development: The Pros & Cons

Globally about 5.11 billion people make use of smartphones and this number is only going to raise in the years to come. This trend will take the app development industry to a peak where businesses and consumers will both look for better mobile applications. Also, the average time that a person spends using their smartphones is about three hours a day. Therefore, this will further accelerate the upgrading and updating of mobile applications to stay relevant with time. Understand the pros & cons of iOS vs Android mobile app development.

The smartphone industry is expected to grow to 7.33 billion by 2023. This figure being overwhelming will help application developers to keep up with the demand. The proliferation of more and more mobile applications has to lead to the evolution of business needs and user preferences. Mobile applications which will be at par with these changes will soar high in the coming years. Hence, the businesses and organizations will now focus on figuring out the best approach for developing their mobile app.

Having said, how easy or difficult is it to get going with building an app? Well, the entire process of building a mobile application is a complex endeavour. From ideating to execution, one question always remains the same: Should we develop an iOS or an android application? This question has always been dominating the operating system market. In the global mobile application market, Android platform leads with 68% of the market share, followed by iOS with about 30%, and 2% smaller operating platforms. Does that mean it is safe and best to choose Android as your platform? Of course, not, there are many other factors apart from the market share that can make or break your mobile application dream.

 How-to-choose-between-iOS-and-Android-for-App-Development

To help you make an informed decision, let us look at some of the pros and cons of iOS vs Android app development:

iOS App Development

Designed only for Apple products like iPhone and iPad, iOS has provided great revenue to Apple as it is very prevalent in developed countries. iOS uses a closed source system that only Apple can use privately. This makes the platform more secure and the chances of getting hacked are very less.

Pros of the iOS platform: 

  • Standard UI Design: Apple provides a detailed guideline for UI design, thereby helping developers to build an application effortlessly
  • Benefits: Apple users are considered to be very loyal to their iPhone or iPad, which makes them spend more money on iOS applications. Apple has built a trustworthy brand positioning for itself, this is what makes the user stick to the same brand for years
  • Versatility: Almost all apple devices use the same iOS version. Developers do not have to invest their time and effort in creating app versions for different devices with different resolutions and screen sizes.

Cons of the iOS platform

  • Cost: iOS app development requires Xcode IDE which can only be accessed using Macs. The initial investment will shoot up if you do not already own Mac and Xcode
  • Stringent Publishing norms: iOS have very strict standard guidelines which are to be followed when developing an application otherwise the apps get rejected mercilessly
  • Tailoring: As the guidelines are strict and standard, you can not customise your mobile application the way you wish, and become just like the rest.

Android App Development

Android is the leading operating system in the world. The accessibility and affordability of android smartphones has felicitated for its growth and reach.

Pros of the Android platform: 

  • Publishing norms: Being not so stringent, app developers can upload the Android PacKage and the application shall be available in the Play Store with hours
  • Open System: Developers have more freedom for their creativity and opportunities to develop greater things
  • Design: Google provides eye-pleasing layouts and templates for the beginners

Cons of the Android platform: 

  • Not so versatile: Varying screen sizes, resolutions, and aspect ratios can be a task for the developers
  • Cost: Total development cost gets high as you need to invest in optimisation and testing
  • Testing: Android has many end-devices, and testing the usage of the application in all of these is time and money consuming

By learning these key differences, you must have gotten an idea as to which platform you must choose. If you are looking to delve deeper and create a successful mobile application then connect with us at +91- 9863077000 or [email protected] and we will help build one.

E-commerce, The Future Of Businesses Post COVID-19 Pandemic 

As the countries around the world are planning to unlock, there are infinite anticipated questions about the business landscape ahead that remains a riddle. The changes in consumer behaviour will persist for quite some time. Businesses will have to understand the depth of these changes and re-strategise their market approach. During such uncertain times, companies and businesses need to be on their foot to gather and analyse data quickly and accurately. This will help them to be agile, take response measures, and make informed decisions to whatever twists and turns the pandemic throws their way.

While there are deeper learnings about consumer behaviour, three trends are emerging across the sectors and domains – contact-less experience, social distancing, and digitization. Irrespective of the location, industry, or sector, the one strategy that will address these trends is of e-commerce. In the recent few weeks, the world has observed a new wave in the usage of e-commerce platforms. The industry has become more dense and intense than ever for millions of businesses who may have not thought about selling online before the COVID-19 pandemic.

https://www.goodworklabs.com/mobile-applications-to-rule-post-covid-19-pandemic/

Let us look at how businesses can use e-commerce technology to scale during and post this pandemic:

Convenience:

Convenience has always topped the list while strategizing the e-commerce plan. People are getting used to online shopping mainly because of this major factor. One thing that companies must understand that consumer habits and preferences keep changing and they need to adapt to it. To be at par with ever-changing dynamics of what is convenient shopping, the business will have to do real-time research and take necessary actions accordingly. Currently, people are looking to shop for essential products such as groceries, medicines, dairy products, etc at their convenience. Many e-commerce apps and companies have understood this and tried to deliver in-demand items conveniently to consumers. For example, Swiggy and Zomato had started delivering groceries through their food-delivery mobile application.

Social distancing and contact-less experience: 

As the countries have started to unlock, there has been a major concern about a pandemic blowback. The increased focus on personal hygiene and the new normal social distancing has lead to the emergence of ‘contact-less experience’. This will encourage continued online shopping and reiterate the behavioural change in the long run.

Elderly Consumers to come online: 

For a long time, the elderly population is expected to be in self-imposed quarantine as they are most vulnerable to the COVID-19 infection. Hence, they are likely to use online mediums for their regular shopping and delivery. With them signing-up as customers of the e-commerce platform, the existing customer behavioural trend will be altered and accelerated. The population of 65+ aged is huge in many countries, therefore this will make up a massive customer segment for the companies to serve digitally.

Intensified Competition: 

Convenient, safe, and agile practice of shopping and delivery is what the customers today are looking for. If you lack behind in any of these key practices, or if your competition is doing it in a better fashion, then you are bound to lose customers until you adopt a new approach. For example, when the food delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato started delivering groceries, they were strongly competing with bigbasket, Grofers, Amazon, Godrej Natures Basket, etc. Even while they did have tough competition, the approach was well accepted in the market. Therefore, when businesses disrupt and emerge, they become a better and strong competition.

Many online customers are changing their behaviour and purchase patterns as they are opting for a more convenient, safer, and time-saving experience. This will add some strain on e-commerce platforms and online retailers today. How they analyse, gather insights, and react to these changes will define the future of the e-commerce industry in the world. Even post the removal of lockdown restrictions, the consumer behavioural changes will remain the same for some time. This change will transform the retailing and e-commerce landscape for the years to come. If you are looking to set-up an e-commerce platform or a mobile application, then reach out to us at +91- 9863077000 or [email protected].

How Can AI And ML Help You Build Trending Mobile Applications

Enough has been spoken and heard about artificial intelligence and machine learning. Most of us are aware of these technological jargons. We are in a world where we must have come across these technologies on a daily basis, but little do we know deeper about it. From tech to voice to face enabled devices, we all have witnessed a dramatic evolution of technology in the last decade. It did not only contribute towards the transformation of the internet and software industry, but also the lives of individuals – you, me, and us!

Technologies related to AI and ML is expected to grow in the years to come. Even many social media platforms are today investing ample amount of money in the development of AI techniques to keep their audiences hooked to the platform. Over-viewing the mobile app industry, it is not a hidden fact that today most of the mobile applications are built on AI and ML technologies. Today, we have mobile applications for all our activities – shopping to dating, food to fashion, travelling to surfing, etc.

How Can AI And ML Help You Build Trending Mobile Applications

According to a report by Statista, the global artificial intelligence market is expected to grow greatly by generating 118.6 billion revenue in 2025. Viewing that, the future of AI and ML technology looks very promising. Therefore, it is a great time to incorporate some AL and ML techniques in your mobile application. Let us look at how two of the leading the AI and ML techniques can help build a trending mobile application:

Predict User Behaviour 

You must have used Amazon or Myntra. Did you get what we are hinting at?

Yes, those suggestions, recommendations, and notifications. They provide you with the most similar products you are looking for. How do you think this happens? Is there is a fairy in the app? Yes, there is and she exactly knows – what you are looking for, what you like and what you don’t, what excites you and what makes you add the items in the cart. Well, no points for guessing, she is AI and ML.

AI and ML mobile applications developed by top AI and ML app developers help the businesses and their marketing teams to understand customer behaviour and psychology. The insights drawn provides information on customer choices, preferences, buying patterns, and budgets by capturing data such as age, location, gender, buying frequency, spending capacity, etc. It is the perfect integration of in-depth data learning and observing the user behaviour across all devices that help create a 360o view on customers. The data so collected enables the brands to approach each customer group and deliver products that perfectly fit their individual needs.

Virtual Assistants 

Hey Siri! “Go on, I am listening” – Siri (Well, there’s someone ‘listening’)

That is how we connect with our smartphones these days, don’t we? Siri, Alexa, and Google, all are changing the digital way of communication with our phones and mobile applications. The technology helps you use your phone or a mobile application while you are performing some other task. It has made the user experience much seamless and fruitful.

This technology has further strengthened the trend of online shopping. Today, 95% of online shopping in the world is made through voice commands and that shouldn’t be a surprise. Industry to industry, virtual assistants are greatly impacting and disrupting the way consumers purchase and retailers sell/market.

Are you still wondering how can you invest in AI and ML? Lets us connect to understand your requirements and help you with an AI and ML based mobile application. Connect with us at +91- 9863077000 or [email protected].

 

 

8 Android Apps to Study for Upcoming Developers

Must Study Apps

 

Learning of new codes is an essential element in the growth trajectory of a software developer.  If you are a new app developer and are particularly interested in learning about Android app development online, then you are at the right place. In this article, we will provide a list of some of the apps that provide a wholesome learning experience for those who wish to try their hands at Android app development.

1) LeafPic

One of the best apps to try for a beginner is LeafPic. This app will help you to know more about photo gallery and video app development for the Android OS. Dynamic theming done on this app helps to understand the functionality.

 8 android apps to study for upcoming developers

2) Easy Sound Recorder

As it’s a very small app, it is much easier to understand for a beginner. It helps you grasp the concept behind creating a full-fledged audio app. You can learn about the intricacies of executing audio manipulation from this app. Watch out for the material design done in the project as this will be a relevant design concept for the future.

3) Simple calendar

This app best exemplifies Kotlin (programming language for modern multiplatform applications). A simple yet smart design makes it good for new developers to try out. Customization of a widget text, as well as the background, adds to its charm.

4) Master Android

This is a step by step guide for Android app developers. The full detailed tutorials makes it easy to understand technological terms and makes your learning process smoother. The app is divided into 3 sections.

a) Android lessons.

b) Ask your doubts to developers.

c) Coding challenges for you.

5) Learn Android development

If you have just a basic understanding of a programming language, you can still use this tutorial app to design and create a working Android mobile app. It’s not just theory but practical guidance is also provided here. Do watch the demos for various Android activities as well get the source code.

6) Tutorial for Android: Examples

Use this tutorial to learn Android application development. This app is primarily divided into 3 sections

a) Android tutorials

b) Android examples and

c) Android quiz.

 8 android apps to study for upcoming developers

7) Create your own app

This app is perfect for basic Android coding and Android source codes. This learning app allows you to download the source code as a text file. Some of the other things this app distinguishes itself from other apps are: code downloading and feedback sending option, SDK setup detail and basic/advance Android codes.

8) Learn Android programming

This fast growing app lets you learn the basics of Android programming and it’s also helpful for those programmers who are already coding. It helps you to specialize in the Android programming sector by providing the latest in technology via its tutorials and assignment questions. This is one app that you should definitely look into if you like programming for Android.

In conclusion, it can be said that while there are thousands of apps to choose for an upcoming Android developer, he has to choose depending upon his own criteria, his area of interest, and the specialization he intends to do in that aspect.

7 Things To Know Before Building An Android App

Creating The Perfect Android App For Beginners

 

Building an Android app comes down to two major skills/languages: Java and Android. Java is the language used in Android, but the Android part encompasses learning XML for the design of the app, learning the concepts of Android, and using the concepts logically with Java.

Once you learn Java and XML; XML is really easy to get used to, and you should learn the language as you program your app rather than learning it beforehand like you would with Java. You need to learn how to connect these two using Android principles.

Android-app-7 things-to-know-goodworklabs

Now for a total beginner, we recommend YouTube tutorials to get the basic idea of how to install Eclipse (the Integrated Development Environment, or IDE, for Java) and the Java Development Kit (JDK). It also helps to get the basic idea of syntax behind Java concepts, such as for loops and if statements.

Here is an example: Click to watch video 

But from then on, after you have learned the very basics, we HIGHLY recommend ditching the YouTube tutorials in favor of a book or a lecture series. YouTube tutorials very often do NOT give intuition behind important concepts.

Keep these following things in mind as you venture on your journey of building a successful Android App.

7 things to know before building your first Android App:

 

1. You need to learn Java, there is no way around it. Knowledge will only help you through the process of building an app.

2. Android part encompasses learning XML for the app design, understanding concepts of Android and using said concepts programmatically with Java.

3. Beginners should probably use an IDE. It is really useful and lets you experiment.

4. Building your first app is time-consuming: it won’t happen overnight. This is not a project for those looking for a shortcut to success.

5. When stuck on a problem which will inevitably happen, turn to Stack Overflow. Utilize Google, and have no shame in asking assistance from the experts.

6. Before hitting the market and start developing an application you should conduct a proper market research. Analyzing the market thoroughly will give you insights about your competitors, their strategy, their strengths and weakness too. This information will prove to be useful as you can avoid repeating the mistakes your competitors made.

7. Defining your target audience is very important as the audience plays a huge impact on the development of your mobile application. All these questions such as who will be using this app, and how is it going to help them, should be answered well before hand.

 

Best Of Luck.

GoodWorkLabs becomes a Google Certified Agency

GoodWorkLabs is now a Google Certified Agency

 

GoodWorkLabs is very proud to announce that Google has certified us as an expert agency that understands and excels at building Android applications. We are one of the first few companies in 2017 to make it to Google’s Android Certified Agencies list across India, UK, Russia, Indonesia, USA and Canada.

 

Google certified agency

 

As a leading Outsourced Product Development Company and UX design studio, we know what it takes to build a mobile application that can spur millions of downloads from the Play store. Attention to detail, User Interactions, Design and Graphics, we ensure we build the best technology for our clients that will scale up their business.

 

GoodWorkLabs is one of the top 25 Google Certified Agencies: 

As part of this Developer Certification program, Google recognizes only a hand-full of organizations that have undergone the required training and have demonstrated expertise in building exceptional Android applications. By bagging this prestigious title, GoodWorkLabs has proven its excellence in terms of Android technology, design and mobile apps as a whole.

Here is the list of top Google certified agencies:

“This is by far the biggest recognition in the global industry that GoodWorkLabs is the leading company when it comes to building Android applications and related technologies. Google Certification has put us on the map of the best of the best agencies in the world,” said Vishwas Mudagal, CEO and Co-Founder at GoodWorkLabs. “Having bagged this certification, our credibility has gone up many notches higher, which in turn has resulted in increased confidence in our capabilities by our growing customer base across geographies.”

This certification will also help clients make a more informed decision while looking for an agency to build Android apps. In the past, we have worked with some of the top clientele which include both funded Startups and Fortune 500 companies.

Sonia Sharma, Founder and MD at GoodWorkLabs, said, “There is no bigger certification authority than Google for an agency. Years of effort in perfecting UX, design and technology, and a vision to build apps that touch the lives of millions of users have brought us here today.”

The benefits of becoming a certified Google developer agency are plenty, some of which include personalized training, priority support, dedicated content, and access to Google’s developer relations teams. Certified Agencies will also get early access to upcoming developer products and will get help with UX reviews.

GoodWorkLabs is delighted to be part of an ecosystem that understands and excels at building Android technologies.

Android App Publishing – The Right Approach

Android App Publishing

App development is perhaps one of the biggest technology disruptors in today’s world. Every IT or software firm and even individuals are looking forward to build their own app and publish it on Google Play. However, building a successful app is not an easy task. Before you put out the app developed by you or your team on Google Play and make it available for the users, there are few things you need to consider doing. Towards this end, we have compiled the basic pointers you need to follow before publishing an app. Let’s look at each of them in detail –

Steps Involved in Publishing an App

  • Quality test- It is extremely crucial to make sure that the app passes the quality criteria, so that it can meet up to expectations of the users.
  • Publishing Process – First of all, check out the documents related to publishing workflow, and get an idea of the process involved in making an APK (application package) ready for release.
  • Policies and Agreements – Next, go through the list of policies and agreements of Google Play. Google Play aggressively put into force the policies, and if your app if found violating any of the policies then it may lead to its termination; even the developer account may get suspended.
  • Country Distribution- In this step, you have to decide the distribution of your app on the basis of countries as well as territories.
  • App’s Size- The maximum space provided by Google Play to publish your app is 50 MB. In case your app’s size exceeds 50 MB, you can seek help from APK expansion files.
  • App’s Platform- This step is about confirming that you have created the app on a platform which is compatible with Android OS.
  • In-app Billing- In case you do not want to give your app for free, consider making use of an In-app billing, which will let you to sell your digital content. In addition, also set a price for your app.
  • Localizing- If you have any particular country where you want to promote your app specifically, then you have to work towards localizing the app and its elements, such as images, strings, screenshots, etc.
  • Promotion- In this step, you have to work towards the promotion of your app by creating graphics, videos, and screenshots.
  • Release Ready APK- After taking care of the above mentioned steps, now you should focus on uploading the APKs to the developer console of your account.
  • Beta Release- Distribution of a pre-release edition of the app can be useful in getting the feedback from the users, which in turn will prove helpful in fixing bugs.
  • Apps’ Store Listing– This step is about furnishing the details of your app to the users, on the store listing page. This detail will help the users decide whether to purchase/download your app or not.

Those were the major steps involved when it comes to publish an app on Google Play. You can also make use of Google Play badges to promote your app in a better way. Write in to us with your comments if these pointers help you with your app approval process.

5 Reasons Why You Should Spend on an Android Watch

Android-Watch

The demand for wearable devices is on the rise, and the most popular among them is the smart watch. Several tech companies like Sony, LG, Apple and Motorola have already jumped into the market of smart watch. With so many options to choose from, it might get a little bit difficult for you to make a decision. Fortunately, Android OS powered smart watches have given us some compelling features to consider them as our next gadget. Let us look at some reasons why you should invest your money on an Android smart watch.

1. Voice Recognition Platform: By far, the voice recognition platform of Google has proved to be the best among all reasons that make it a good buy. Google Now has definitely added tons of value to the Android Wear watches. When your wrist is powered by a Android smart watch, getting useful information regarding news, services and directions for any area will turn out to be really easy. The capability to speak to the Android smart watch is vital with the gadget, which makes it possible to carry out basic functions through giving voice instructions. So, the bottom line is to make information more easily accessible.

2. Communication on the Move: Though smartphones too offer this facility, but the need to hold them in your palms negate out in the case of smart watches. It is absolutely easy to sync your Android phone with your Android watch. Once synced properly, you will receive each and every alert and notification on your smart watch. It means that you will never miss any calls as the wrist vibration will keep you informed even when you are in the middle of a noisy traffic. You can also send the calls to voicemail in case you are not in a position to receive them.

3. Association with Other Companies: Nowadays, the Android watch is not just about technology, but aesthetics and looks as well. On one hand where major tech companies like Samsung, LG and HTC are teaming up with Google to come up with better hardware, the hardcore watch making companies like Tag Heuer and Fossil on the other hand are also giving their contribution. This is quite evident from the fact that recently Tag Heuer made an announcement regarding working with Intel and Google for developing Android smart watch.

4. Integration: In order to maximize the capabilities of Android watch, Google is working towards making the device compatible with even the household equipment. For example, the thermostats from Nest can be absolutely integrated with your Android watch, hence turning your device into a remote control for different equipment.

5. Scheduling: This is perhaps the most obvious reason why people wear a wrist watch. But, the efficiency of your wrist watch increases exponentially when it is powered by an Intel processor. With an Android watch tied to your wrist, you do not have to pull out your smartphone from your pocket and check out the schedules of important tasks you have to carry out or the meetings you need to attend. It means no need to toggle between your ordinary wrist watch and smartphone.

Do let us know which feature are you anticipating the most in the Android Watch?

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