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.

  
  

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. 

iOS phones are very popular among smartphone users. Smartphone applications have become a part of peoples’ daily life. Security isn’t the first thing we think of while purchasing an application, but it is a matter of concern. iOS users stand at an advantage here. Though Android also has the required security protocols in place, it is iOS that has the upper hand in terms of security. iOS applications mitigate the risk of data leakage and security harms. The apps developed in iOS are much more secure than the Android application. 

So are you thinking, what makes iOS applications so popular?

Well, it is the security it provides that is much better than its alternatives. Let’s learn more about what makes it so secure.

Here are the top features that make iOS applications so secure – 

Data Protection API: All versions of iOS, after iOS 4, have an inbuilt security feature of Data Protection. The feature allows the iOS app to encrypt and decrypt its files automatically. This feature is by default activated in iOS apps, but you can configure it as per your need. 

KeyChain API: Keychain is a hardware-oriented secure data storage that stores small data such as passwords, certificates, and credentials. The iOS has its own dedicated space in the Keychain that does not allow access to other apps. This way, the system provides you the highest level of security.

CloudKit: The CloudKit allows you to store data in Apple’s iCloud by using your Apple ID. It enables the security feature by which your app and the server’s commutation can be done using Apple’s client-side CloudKit framework. 

Verifying Signature: iOS applications use verified signatures. Before sending a message, you need a private or public key pair. This signature is then sent together with the receiver’s actual data, using the public key to validate the signature.

Encrypted Data Transfer: The airdrop got introduced with IOS 7. It allows you to share files with just a tap. The files are encrypted, but this service lets you be visible only to your contacts by default. If you require, you can change the settings. 

Highly Secure Authentication: iOS is known for its authentication feature. Face Recognition, fingerprint authentication, and eye recognition are some of the features that iOS bought it first in the industry. 

HTTPs: iOS launched a new feature called App Transport Security (ATS) that improves the security of the connecting network by blocking HTTP connections. Otherwise, HTTP connections are not that firm.  

So why should you choose iOS?

Nowadays, many entrepreneurs and businesses are investing in iOS app development for a secure and reliable mobile application. The primary reason is the security features. But there are much more benefits of the iPhone Operating System. With every new launch of iOS versions and updates, its security features are becoming more sturdy. Leading the way with innovation, iOS focuses to make data encrypt and firm. Though the iOS devices come with high prices than other operating systems, their users know its value and are ready to pay for it. 

Creating a reliable, secure, and powerful iOS is not an easy process. Data security is the highest priority & iOS always tries to perform in terms of safety. 

Choose GoodWorkLabs for all your iOS app development needs

If you are looking for an iOS app development company, GoodWorkLabs is an eminent iOS app development company in Bangalore. We build iOS apps with complete safety and security to give your business a dynamic application. Want to know more details?
Shoot an email & talk to our team, here – [email protected] 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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].

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.

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 360^o 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].

Hybrid Mobile App Development

In 2019, the number of mobile phone users is estimated to reach 4.68 billion.  Hence, this is enough reason to stress the importance of having an online presence in the form of mobile apps. Now the next and major question is which approach to choose for app development, native or hybrid?

We understand that picking the perfect mobile development approach is a tough task. That’s why in this post, we have tried to clear the confusion by laying down circumstances in which Hybrid app development makes sense.

Why is Hybrid mobile app development more preferred?

As stated by the Ionic Developer Survey 2017, in which 13000 developers participated, 32.7% of developers are expected to completely abandon native app development for Hybrid app development. Also, there was a 700 percent decrease in developers developing exclusively with native tools.

Why Hybrid mobile app development outscores Native mobile app development?

Hybrid app development utilizes web technologies such as HTML5, JavaScript, and CSS while providing access to native platform features. The best examples of successful Hybrid mobile applications are Instagram, Basecamp, Yelp, and Uber.

These apps can access the native features like camera, contacts and at the same time, it runs on both Android and iOS.
With the advent of Hybrid mobile app frameworks such as PhoneGap, Ionic, and React Native, the options in mobile app development have diversified.

There are sizeable advantages for opting hybrid mobile app development.

To start with, the talent pool of Hybrid App developers is bigger than the native app developers, thus making Hybrid app development a cheaper venture than native apps. And you already know that every penny saved is a penny earned.

With Hybrid app development, multiple app platforms can be targeted without the requirement of maintaining multiple code bases. This, in turn, reduces the time to market and enhances the outreach to the users.

The following are key benefits of using Hybrid application development:

• Fast track development: single code base for all the platforms
• Easy to test and implement changes and scale to other platforms
• Inexpensive in all the aspects
  

Just like how every coin has two sides, there are some cons of opting for hybrid mobile app development as well. Consider this as well before opting for hybrid application development.

Disadvantages of hybrid mobile app development

Since a single code is used for all the major app platforms, it is difficult to match up with the performance of native apps. There are also some performance issues because of some device constraints in Android and iPhone. 

With the tech world evolving at a drastic rate, it will be difficult for organizations to stay updated with the latest features and hardware capabilities when they choose the hybrid framework. It is both a time consuming and cumbersome process altogether.

Why choose Hybrid App development?

Hybrid app development solves the chief purpose of fast-track development and a quick launch in the market. The added advantage is that it is inexpensive and there is no functional or visual difference to users.

Furthermore, hybrid apps are perfect for startups who desire a quick lane to market. Quick prototyping helps in getting an early feedback, so that unnecessary expenses on development can be avoided later. All you need is to build a Hybrid MVP and test your concepts, if it satisfies all the standards, move ahead with developing the Hybrid app or migrate back to the native app.

It is a general perception that hybrid app development has several constraints with custom features and that developers can only use the features that can be wrapped in a native container. But, the real fact is Hybrid app can cover up to 90% of standard features.

Also, the possibility to create something new with the modules already written in native for specific platforms is very high.

Another great usage of hybrid development is when you need an inner ‘corporate’ purpose app like conference apps, events and such. These applications are distributed via links and not uploaded on the Google Play or App Store.

How to decide whether Hybrid is the right choice for your business?

There is no clear choice when it comes to native or hybrid. No matter which option you pick you will have to make certain compromises. Your decision should obviously be based on your requirements, skills of developers, and budget.  Also, there are few mandatory questions that you must ask yourself before arriving at any decision.

Do you have strict budget constraints? If yes, then the hybrid app development will solve your purpose. On the contrary, if your app requires a lot of unique features in your app then native app development should be your first choice.

Summing-up

The decision of choosing the right approach for app development is not an easy one. It is like choosing between an iPhone or Android phone. The best approach to choose is to make a list of priorities and then test both app development approaches for appropriateness.

Also, the choice of app development approach varies with the project complexity. With all the pros and cons of hybrid and native app development in mind, you can make an educated decision.

If you would like a FREE consultation on the best approach for your App development needs, then drop us a quick message here

Interesting iOS Stats

With 18% market share and combined share of 99.6% with Android, Apple’s iOS is one of the most happening operating systems of the world. When it comes to using a mobile device, these are the two options users get to choose from. It’s true that Android has a considerable market share. But, we also can’t deny the significance of the iOS platform.

Every time there’s a new iOS device launch, mobile fanatics simply rush to buy it. If you happen to be amongst them, it’s time to breeze through some of lesser known, interesting, and unique facts about the iOS platform. Here we go!

1. Apple isn’t the pioneer

Although everyone believes that Apple is the frontrunner in the IOS development arena, that isn’t the truth. Before the emergence of the iPhone, Cisco already patented this name. Cisco’s model was a VOIP one where one could call directly from Skype without using the desktop. After a few initial spats, both the companies came to a settlement and agreed to preserve the respective rights of their devices.

2. The emergence of App store

The app store is one of the revolutionary offerings by the IOS platform. Gamers and iPhone owners can download their favorite games from the app store. Most importantly, it helps users download games and apps legally.

3. Samsung supports IOS (Well, in a different way)

We know the fierce rivalry between Apple and Samsung. However, Samsung happens to be the creator of iPhone’s smart chips. In spite of their existing rivalries, Apple doesn’t fail to offer this contract to Samsung. That’s indeed a unique revelation about the iOS platform.

4. Texting is in

Apple has transformed texting into a simple and easy way to communicate. Texting someone is much easier and more convenient than calling the person, and it’s all because of Apple and its iOS devices. Sending SMS is no longer a tough ordeal, and you will love doing it!

5. Incredible sales numbers 

Are you aware of the sales figures recorded by iOS devices in 2011? Well, that will tell you a lot about its market price and value. According to market figures, a whopping 156 million devices have been bought by users. When compared to Mac PC sales, the operating system seems to be the clear winner. If you take a look at the sales figures of the past 28 years, you will come to know that Mac PCs lag way behind!

6. Revolutionary innovation

The iPhone seems to be one of the greatest mobile discoveries of all time. In the year 2007, this particular device was awarded the title of ‘invention of the year.’

7. Innumerable patents

Apple holds a whopping 200 patents for the iPhone. It’s like a multitude of functions integrated into a single device. The unique and innovative technology of this device makes it a revolutionary offering by the operating system.

Parting thoughts

These interesting facts speak a lot about the platform and its flagship device. So, now you know why the iPhone is so popular!

Last week (https://www.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://www.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.