Last week (https://goodworklabs.com/avoid-cross-platform-app-design-mistakes-by-knowing-more-about-these-distinct-android-elements-part-1/) we had an interesting look at how the spurt in demand for Android operating system has spawned a whole new generation of developers seeking to gain expertise in this challenging yet captivating domain. We continued by looking at how developers tend to re-use iOS app design elements in Android app design and how the common design element unique to Android need to be considered in order to provide an enriching user experience to Android app users.

Some of the common design elements that are found only in Android ecosystem and not in the same form in iOS will include

1. Distinct back navigation
2. Spinner choice selection element
3. Tab navigation
4. Flexibility in screen size

While we covered point1 in our earlier blog (https://goodworklabs.com/avoid-cross-platform-app-design-mistakes-by-knowing-more-about-these-distinct-android-elements-part-1/), we will now continue with other Android-specific design elements that developers need to be careful while porting iOS design elements to Android –

2. Spinners – In Android, selection out of multiple options is enabled by the spinner element. They are extremely easy and versatile to use, and can be used across a multitude of functionalities within an app. One common usage is for data selection in form. For instance if you’re looking to fill up ‘State’ information is US, you might be presented with a spinner that reads a list starting from ‘Alabama’ and ending with ‘Wyoming’. Of these states, you can select one that pertains to your details. In iOS, this is taken care of by iOS action sheet. An example is the calendar that shows different design for Android and iOS.

3. Tab navigation – The key difference between iOS and Android in tab navigation is the placement. While iOS recommends placing it at the bottom of the page, Android suggests keeping the tabs at the top. Remember the different tabs that come up in Google Play Store – ‘Top Free’, Top Paid’ or ‘Featured’? These are the tabs placed on top in Android that allows relevant navigation.

4. Screen size – Since iOS develops apps only for Apple devices, the screen sizes are pretty much standardized (though the advent of iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, change just change all that in Apple). Thus, when using iOS elements, developers need to ensure that they also work on a mind-boggling variety of Android device screen sizes – from 3.5 inch to 7 inch. This huge fragmentation of screen size and device capability brings is own set of design challenges. Android developers need to ensure that their designs are fluid and supple to suit all screen sizes on Android.

Our take on this – Of course development costs do matter, but it should never be at the expense of UI/UX needs of the Android user. When it comes to deriving top class user experience, it is not an option but rather a necessity. Android itself has a great user experience to offer, and extracting the maximum from these unique Android-only elements/functionalities is a good way to enable this. Let us know if you know of any other element that is singularly unique to Android and which needs to be altered specifically if taken from iOS environment.

As of Q3 2013, Android commanded a staggering 81.3% of global smartphone shipments¹. With such a huge market, it is certainly a rewarding career opportunity as an Android app developer. An Android app development company has a challenging task of keeping up with industry evolutions and shifts in customer preferences.

Also, iOS and Android together commanding a mind-boggling 94.7% of market share in Q3 2013¹ in terms of operating systems. Considering this fact, it is no surprise that companies will look to port their existing Android app development proficiencies in making iOS app too or other way round. Many developers tend to begin their app development project by assuming that they will devise an app for iOS too concurrently. While this does work to some extent in bringing down development costs, what if the expenses of cross platform app design mistakes is higher than the benefits provided?

This is precisely what we witness when we try to do too many things at one time. It is a common pitfall to try using a previously designed iOS and simply trying to tweak the iOS experience to suit the Android ecosystem. Though there are similarities in navigation or basic elements of UI, the actual modality in achieving native UI/UX experience is what convinces us to treat Android as a separate development project altogether.

Our take on this – If we know the common mistakes that occur by using iOS designs for Android, and take care to avoid/repeat the same, we can still achieve a distinct look for both iOS and Android app by using most of the elements/components from one platform to another. Today, in this first part of a 2-part blog, we look at some such unique elements in Android that is completely different from iOS and should be accounted for specifically, when porting iOS elements.

1. Back navigation – The iOS comes with its unique and quite visible ‘back’ button. It usually appears on top left corner when user navigates one level above. The rectangular box with left side in form of an arrow shows the name of the ‘one-level-below’ folder as label. Tapping on this takes the user to the previous page or to the earlier level. In Android the same effect is achieved by a curved ‘back’ arrow usually appearing on the bottom left corner. In addition it also has a similar top left placed ‘up’ button on action bar where the main app icon is located. So what do these buttons do exactly?

The ‘back’ bottom button navigates to previous screens and continues doing so till it reaches the Android home screen, even it means traversing across multiple apps in the process. In the ‘up’ arrow however, it will go back one level only till the time it reaches the main view / first view of the app.

Next up in the 2^nd and concluding part, we continue with some more Android-specific elements that need to be looked into when executing cross-platform app design to achieve a fabulous native Android app experience.

1 – http://thenextweb.com/mobile/2013/10/31/strategy-analytics-android-smartphone-shipments-81-3-q3-2013-ios-13-4-windows-phone-4-1/

Android has rapidly scaled up to be one of the foremost mobile device platforms globally, satisfying billions of mobile users and devices, spread over 190 countries. It’s robustness, security and versatility has made it one of the leading mobile operating systems, acting as a home for a countless applications, games and other Android services.

An application framework is essentially a software framework used by developers to implement an application structure. The solid online tech forums and increasing popularity of the platform has spawned many app development frameworks dedicated to Android. In case you are wondering which one to employ for your Android app development needs, then here’s a list of the top app development frameworks just for you:

 

1. Sencha Touch 2:

Sencha, built with CSS, JavaScript, and HTML5, is the first framework of its kind. It hosts fifty built-in constituents, a model view controller system, and state management provisions. Developers and programmers can create top notch applications using dynamic animation systems, combined with a seamless integration with Google Play.

2. DHTMLX Touch:

DHMTLX Touch is an HTML 5 based AJAX and JavaScript library which specializes in developing cross platform mobile device applications which are suitable for smartphones and tablets alike. It boasts of a wide array of UI widgets and elements which come together to deliver fully functional Android mobile apps.

3. iUI:

This iUI framework is famous for its lightweight characteristics. It is made up of a credible CSS support, a comprehensive JavaScript library, and image development. Moreover, there are provisions for caching, theme switching, video making, and support for forms, galleries, lists, and much more.

4. PhoneGap:

This is without one shadow of a doubt, one of the most popular and widely used application development frameworks out there. Its existing functionality of HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript has been further bolstered by the brand stamp of Adobe and Apache.

5. jQuery Mobile:

As the name suggests, this is an HTML 5 based lightweight framework based on the cutting edge jQuery technology. It is tailor made for all Eclipse open-source developers and programmers. It triggers progressive optimization, theme-able designs schemes, and semantic markups.

6. TheAppBuilder:

This is the brainchild of JamPot Technologies, based on the HTML 5 model. It is a boon for swift app developing needs. For app developers, it makes troubleshooting and deployment easier. Its biggest USP is the provision of seamless social network integration. Also, it supports an easy to use drag-and-drop interface.

7. Basic4android:

Anywhere Software Ltd.’s JAVA programming tool has been comprehensively combined with Android’s SDK to forge Basic4android. It takes on a modern take on the exemplary Visual Basic language.

8. Corona SDK:

The influx of high end SDK elements, robust UI support, and a dynamic physics engine has made Corona SDK a priority choice for over 120,000 game developers, as claimed by Corona Labs.

With the advent of mobile and touch technology over the past decade, it would be safe to say that these Android powered mobile devices are taking over the world. Write to us and let us know which one you would prefer for your next Android app development project.

Do get in touch if you need any help in building your Android app. GoodWorkLabs would be happy to assist and give you a free quote for Android app development.

One can never get enough of gaming, and with the intense competition amongst game developers, the games that are released keep getting better. And when it comes to Android, with the abundant games available in the Google Play Store, one is spoilt for choice. So to make it easy for you, we’ve handpicked the top 10 games in 2014 for your Android device.

1. Cut The Rope 2

ZeptoLab brings the fantastic sequel to Om Nom’s adventures. It is the same rope cutting that featured in the first part, but now the difference is that Om Nom is out in an open world. He must go through jungles, junkyards, and many more environments to munch on his delicious candy.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.zeptolab.ctr2.f2p.google]

 

Features:

• New catchy locations.
• Om Nom can now be customized.
• Free updates with new levels and animations.

 

2. Threes

If you wish to exercise your brain, this is just the game for you. After the smashing success of “2048”, Smash Mobile brings to you a new exciting challenge “Threes Saga”. A simple game with an endless challenge.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lichmobile.numberthree]

Features:

• One simple game mode with an endless challenge
• Simple, neat, clean graphics and smooth game play
• Cross-platform leader boards, compete with players worldwide.

 

3. First Strike

It is a fast paced strategy game developed by Blindflug Studios. It has the gamer plotting and executing plans for world domination by using a large range of nuclear weapons. It is one of the most exciting games for 2014.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ch.feinheit.games.firststrike]

Features:

• Tremendous graphics.
• Three superstates.
• Simple controlling system.

 

4. Smash Hit

An arcade game which begins easy but as the gamer advances to the later levels it gets quite challenging. An easy to understand game which takes a while to practice, but then gets highly addictive.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mediocre.smashhit]

Features:

• Beautiful futuristic design.
• Musically synchronized gameplay.
• Realistic glass-breaking mechanics in every level.

 

5. Dead End

It is an old school arcade racing game with an infinite road generation coming right out of the 70’s with a typical monochromatic graphics. Dead End is a mix between old-fashioned racing games and grindhouse horror movies.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flyingoak.deadend]

Features:

• Use wind-shield wipers to clean the mess after smashing the zombies.
• Upgrade the car to go much farther.
• Complete the missions and challenge your friends.

 

6. Nitro Nation

Take drag racing to a whole new level. A 3D world full of stunning customizable cars, amazing racing physics and unlimited in-depth gameplay. Nitro nation ensures you have an unforgettable drag racing experience, right on your phone.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.creativemobile.nno]

Features:

• Different colours, visual effects and hundreds of decals to customize your car.
• Upgrade with unique parts.
• Tune the gearbox and engine to work in perfectly.
• Earn up to 80 achievements.

 

7. Lost Yeti

A simple and awfully cute puzzle game by Neutronized. The gamer has to swipe the Yeti through a series of maze levels, while avoiding the traps and obstacles and manipulating the environment.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=air.com.neutronized.LostYeti]

Features:

• 3 different worlds to explore.
• 60 exciting levels to play.
• Pixel art filled with colours.

 

8. Dead Trigger 2

A first-person shooter zombie apocalypse game wherein the gamer roams around in a zombie infested town. The objective is to kill every dead body that is hungry for your flesh. The gamer can also choose from different weapons and unlock more levels as they progress further.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.madfingergames.deadtrigger2]

Features:

• Participate in global missions.
• Choice between a touch control scheme for casual players or an enhanced virtual joystick.
• Different types of missions such as story missions, global missions or side-quests.

 

9. Neon Commander

Fate of humanity lies in your hands as you are the Neon Commander. The entire human race is under attack and the Alien spaceships are inbound. Usethe PlasmaShield technology to bounce the shots back and protect the city.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.herocraft.game.free.neoncommander]

Features:

• Old school classic retro music.
• Out of the world music and effects.
• Funny and interesting plots.

 

10.  Motocross Meltdown

Go back to playing the classic motorbike racing games. Motocross Meltdown is a motor cycle action game wherein the gamer can create its own rider, challenge opponents live, customize the bike to fancy their tastes and learn new tricks of the trade.

[Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.glu.stuntracing]

Features:

• Incredible HD graphics.
• Compete for freestyle dominance with insane tricks.
• Customize your bike with over 800 custom configurations.

 

These are our top 10 ten choices from the Android market. Let us know which ones are yours. Game on!

Apps are a part of our lives today. The traditional use of a mobile, that is calling and texting, has been taken over by the use of various apps! Consumers today prefer a smartphone, which helps them use their choice of apps efficiently. A large variety of apps are available for every OS (iOS, Android, Windows, etc). The number of android applications releasing every month is staggering but not all of these apps that are available are up to the mark. In our research we have chosen the following five as our top choices this month for Android.

#1. Frontback
First up is the app, Frontback. Now, taking a selfie could not get any better! With Frontback you click a picture with the front camera and another with the back camera. The pictures can be shared into one single image. Frontback is an exciting app to speak about your life with photos. It is also an online community with over 1 Million users who enjoy being creative or just sharing their daily life.

Features:
• Instant sharing of photos via SMS, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, etc.
• Adds location to your images.
• Use of captions with @friends and #hashtags.

[Link to the app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.checkthis.frontback]

#2. ESPN FC Football & World Cup
Second in line is the ESPN FC Football & World Cup app. The World Cup is just around the corner! And who better than ESPN can give you live content of all the breaking news and analysis of every team directly on your phone, on the go! All football fans must have this app on their phones.

Features:
• Comprehensive coverage of all the major club leagues
• Alerts for game starts, goals, final scores and more.

[Link to the app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.espn.fc]

#3. Timehop
Want to be reminded of your good old days? Our third chosen app, Timehop is just the one for you! It’s basically an app goes back into time and gives you a new old photo everyday! This app is more useful for people who have shared many photos in the past few years.

Features:
• Simple log in with your Facebook account
• Syncs with your different social networking sites.

[Link to the app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.timehop]

 

#4. Yahoo News Digest

This is a brilliant app for those who wish a more handy way to catch up on the news. Yahoo News Digest, which gets all the news from different sources, is in our top four favourite apps for the month. This app sums up all the news, summarizes it with short “atoms” of quotes, images, videos and background information and delivers it as a package twice a day.

Features:
• Posts feature with beautiful photographs and colorful quotations.
• Trending tweets about article.
• Wikipedia entries to build background knowledge.

[Link to the app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yahoo.mobile.client.android.atom]

#5. Word Monsters
The last but definitely not the least by any means is the app, Word Monsters. From the makers of Angry Birds’ Rovio publishing division, comes an interesting new word game developed by experienced the industry professionals for use at home or in a school setting. This exciting and accessible word game involves swiping words off the screen and also competing against friends from social networks. The core word puzzles are fleshed out with different themes.

Features:
• Richly designed visuals and engaging stories featuring 5 quirky fun-loving monster characters, each with their own special ability
• Synchronized professional voiceover audio with text highlighting
• Character speech and accompanying speech bubbles for richer reading.

[Link to the app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=se.raketspel.wordmonsters]

These five apps made an impact on us and on all their users. But, we do recommend you try the following ones as well. We have a feeling you will love them as well.

Now don’t be shy, give them a try!
• Waygo [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.waygoapp.waygo] • Mubi [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=sk.jfox.weather.niger_mubi] • Aliens Drive Me Crazy (game) [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.rebeltwins.aliensdrivemecrazy] • 1849 (game) [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=air.com.somasim.fortynine]

It’s fascinating how not too long time ago we once envisioned a future like how people in science fiction movies did. Today, we are almost living it! But this is not it; technology will continue to get much better. The past few years have seen great leaps in technology. Many innovations we use today have revolutionized the way we live and work. One of the most revolutionary innovations that have completely changed our lives is the “mobile”. Mobiles today have become a necessity. They are equivalent to oxygen for a human! What differentiates one mobile phone to another is its “operating system”.

One of the most popular operating systems in the market today is Google’s Android.

 But what sets Android apart from the rest? Open source. It’s a software that makes the source code freely available, for anyone to see and use. Google has opened up the software to all who have a spirit to create and provide applications and programs to others. Competitors like Apple and Blackberry have limited their system to developers by safekeeping some of its computer code. This limits creativity, as it puts restrictions and limitations as to what exactly what one can create. Thus, Android boosts a plethora of apps. Any kind of application one desires may already be in the Android play store. While creating an app, the developer must ensure a fantastic user interface. Why? A good user interface and user experience (UX) enhances the aesthetic appeal of the app, making the user use the app more often. The goal of developer is to create an app with a user interface, which makes it easy, efficient, and enjoyable in a way, which produces the desired result.

What makes Android more desirable is the security it offers to its users. It is designed with security as one of its cornerstone principles. Without comparing it to any other platform, it does a fantastic job of making sure processes don’t collect too much information. It has multiple layers of protection to keep malware at bay, and it requires the user’s specific permission to do almost anything that could lead to one’s data or the system being compromised. The user is generally always aware of what’s happening behind the scenes.

An Android phone is generally backed up with a RAM, ranging from 512MB to 4GB, the latter being rare. So, the developer must keep in mind that any app he creates must not consume a considerable amount of space, that ends up making the phone slower, and which ultimately results in a bad experience. A good app is one that takes the least space possible yet provides an enjoyable experience to the user. In terms of performance, Android never backs down. It constantly releases periodic updates to make the existing OS more efficient! New phones in the market come pre-installed with the latest Android OS.

Android is a system that allows one to constantly be in the loop. It automatically synchronizes Facebook, Twitter, emails, and numerous other accounts that are integrated into the system via apps or at stock for the user. Live widgets that monitor in real time, accounts, any and all social networks, social feeds, and business/personal accounts are updated instantly. In addition to that, its flexibility and power to design impactful user-interfaces build compelling, user-friendly applications that will look great on any device.

Android is only progressing. The future for it is bright and promising. It has shattered mobile systems realm, and will continue to do so. And its decision to be an open-source software, has made a bigger difference in the world of mobile operating systems. In a short span of time, Android has given other operating systems a run for their money.