Cross-platform mobile development is a relatively a new concept in the tech industry. Not long ago, native, platform-specific apps dominated the market. With goods, like benefiting from device features such as GPS, the apps either run on iOS or Android. But with the emergence of cross-platform mobile development, a mobile application can be utilized in a number of OS. The business advantages of cross-platform apps are considerable enough, that we have decided to put the ins and outs of the topic in an article. Keep reading today’s article where we’ll tell you about the concept of hybrid apps and how you can take advantage of the technology for your niche. Stay tuned to find out more.
What is cross-platform app development?
First of all, we need to know what an operating system is, so we can delve into the topic. An operating system (OS for short) is system software that manages hardware and software on smartphones, computers, tablets, and supercomputers. In mobile app design, Android and iOS are the most popular OSs. They demand specific languages to perform and run on devices. Java, Kotlin, and Python are default languages for Android programming. Swift, Objective-C, and Flutter are used for iOS. Each OS understands and reacts to its native syntax and grammar.
In the digital era we are living in today, our lives are entwined with applications. From a business perspective, hybrid apps may be the way to go. You can reach more people and broaden the number of consumers for your niche. Examples of hybrid apps are instagram and telegram.
Merits and demerits
Merits
One app for multiple platforms= reaching a wider user: As the term cross-platform suggests, a hybrid app is compatible on more than one platform, even if it’s a web-based one. The most vivid ramification of this approach is taking a huge leap towards elevating the number of your audiences.
Cost-effective: Generally speaking, native app development demands more time and money than hybrid mobile app design. In other words, there is a high increase in terms of development, design, maintenance, and marketing budget. So, if you’re running a startup or have limited financial resources, then a hybrid app could be an apt choice for you.
Fast-paced platform: Speed matters these days. Inevitably, we have to adjust to this quick life we are living in with the presence of mobile app design, so we don’t fall behind. Cross-platform development is taking place at a rapid pace that building multiple apps for several platforms.
Demerits
User Experience (UX) setbacks: The main reason of developing an app to be satisfying, pleasing, and cherishing is so your users will have a good time on the app. Equally, reaping benefits from their behaviors is at your business’s advantage. UX design can definitely influence theirs decisions about your niche, for instance buying a good.
UX is the process of building a meaningful and relevant experience for users. Hybrid apps do not fail at providing a good user experience, however they’re not perfect, so it may not get you as many users as a native app would.
Security: We are living 22th century, in which information is one of the most valuable things in the world. Therefore, data security is a major concern, especially if your business demands a database of financial figures. Native apps have solid security structures because of the frequent updates. What is the solution? Opting for a qualified team of IT experts who know the ropes. At Twelfthdream, we back our clients with Team As A Service (TAAS). In the 6-steps of software development process, we accompany you at any time. So, in terms of threats, you are fully supported by our specialists. Read more about our process here.
Performance: Adopting with multiple platforms means a lot, but adjusting to more than one platform can make somethings harder. Syncing native and non-native components slows the application down. In order to extend compatibility to a wide range of devices, development methodologies must integrate an additional abstraction layer.
Best frameworks for cross-platform mobile development
Software development is a complex and time-consuming process. Some codes are being repeated again and again. To avoid redundancy and smoothing the process, some ready-made components known as Framework(s) aid developers. Each programming language and approach used to deliver virtual products requires a particular framework. In the context of hybrid apps, the most popular ones are as below.
React Native
React Native is a JavaScript framework used to build user interface. Their first release was in 2015, by meta. Firstly, used for native app development UI design, but now adopted for cross-platform development, thanks to APIs.
Flutter
The framework was introduced by Google in 2017. Flutter and Dart are inseparable. In other words, the only language that accepts Flutter’s syntax is Dart. It shares maximum productivity and is ideal for startup MVPs.
Ionic
Ionic brings various tools for iOS and Android mobile app design. It is a friendly framework for any device with the web. Using web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, Ionic allows developers to build once and run everywhere. It was created by Max Lynch, Ben Sperry, and Adam Bradley in 2013. 
What should I do before opting for cross-platform mobile development for my business?
Identify your target audience
Who are your audience, Android users, iOS users, or both?
Consider your budget and time
According to how complex a project is, the cost may differ. Native apps are usually expensive to develop. For an accurate estimate, at Twelfthdream, we hold a discovery session with our clients to analyze all the details and features about software development.
Research about your project
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Google is awash with useful information. Search about all the aspect of your project.
Make a database
Making a database can help you and other people get the exact details of your project. After doing so, you may take action.
Conclusion
Now you know the ins and outs of hybrid app development. Despite all the flaws mentioned in the post, a cross-platform solution can be a very good choice. If you are still in a dilemma, you can explore our blog for more posts about hybrid and native app development. After you make your choice, choosing a mobile app development company can be very helpful. There are lots of them out there. You should be cautious to pick an IT firm to get an eminent project, because the competition is fierce, and time and budget is limited. Twelfthdream is one of them. Since 2015, we have contributed to many businesses in Canada and beyond. You can see our case studies, and if you have any further questions, you can book a free discovery call with us here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are successful cross-platform applications? Uber, Instagram, Twitter, Gmail, etc.
Which is better for a small business, hybrid or native app development? Native apps cost less to develop, so if budget is a concern, native app development is recommended.
Which is better, Flutter or Iconic? Iconic users surpass the number of Flutter users, which means Iconic has a larger community. So, it could be a better option than Flutter.
