When To Use Cross-platform App Development?
By Anna Papadopoulos
Developing a mobile app must always be preceded by a few tactical decisions, like choosing the programming language. This is quite easy if you’re planning to launch an app dedicated to a particular operating system, like Android or Apple – but it gets more complicated if you aim to work with a few of them at once. The right solution might be cross-platform app development.
What is cross-platform development?
Cross-platform application development is a technique of creating mobile apps that are compatible with many operational systems. This means that the code is written just once and then slightly adjusted to the specific requirements of particular languages. Using cross-platform development is usually less expensive and time-consuming than writing a native code separately for each system. Although it is sometimes claimed that cross-platform apps tend to run a bit slower than native ones, it is definitely worth considering – especially if you’re planning to launch a simple app which doesn’t process a lot of data. You can find more information on the website about cross-platform application development.
When to use cross-platform applications
Cross-platform applications might be the right solution for everyone planning to launch a mobile-dedicated product compatible with a number of operating systems. Focusing on many systems simultaneously means wider targeting, which results in bigger revenue and higher ROI. So, if you wish to both reach a bigger audience and optimize your costs, cross-platform applications might be the best solution for you. Moreover, the next advantage of cross-platform apps is that they allow you to keep the same quality of UX on all of the target platforms. This will significantly help you keep your users satisfied and more eager to use your app. Cross-platform apps are also easier to maintain, as the changes and improvements are introduced only in a universal codebase, and then adjusted and synchronized with each platform. The cross-platform app development process is less complicated, more convenient, and easier in terms of management. It is also recommended for urgent projects, as writing one universal code is usually faster than developing a few native codes, which results in a shorter time to market.
How to build a cross-platform app?
There are a few techniques for building cross-platform apps. The most popular one is hybrid mobile app development – code is written in HTML5 or JavaScript, and then adjusted to the specific needs of native devices. The other available solutions are progressive web app (PWA) development or rapid mobile app development (RMAD). If you want to find the best cross-platform method for your project, we highly recommend discussing it with your software house or technology partner. Their experience might be crucial in providing you with a smooth and successful cross-platform app development process.
Additional benefits of cross-platform apps compared to native apps They are easy and fast to deploy
A programmer who has the responsibility to build a cross-platform application might not have to master all languages to make such an app. The initial deployment usually does the trick to get the work done. This simply means that it is not necessary to have specialists of a particular operating system onboard.
They Reach more clients
Unlike native applications that are only meant for people using only one operating system, anyone and everyone can use a cross-platform application. This means that they will be making more sales in downloads and in-app purchases, if any. It is a sure way to grow your client list without stressing much. This is a ready market.
They are cost-effective
The very fact everyone across different platforms can use them, they are overall a cheaper option for developers. Instead of the investment being split two or three ways, all resources are put into one project, which is very cost-effective and time-saving as well.
They have a high-performing UI/UX
The controls on these apps are very responsive, and operating them is just as easy as the native applications are. Their high performance comes in handy when you want to issue fixes faster and at once, when you want to release a new feature and if you want to connect all our users on one focus object or subject.
Examples of Cross-platform applications Bloomerang
Bloomerang is a site that showcases news from all over the world, and it is compatible with all phone operating systems available. They had the platform as a separate entity for android and iOS users, but it became a big issue that cost money and a lot of time when it came to updates and fixes. Now with one app being used across all operating systems, they no longer have these issues at hand.
Uber Eats
Uber eats is an ordering and delivery system that offers its users a plethora of restaurants, their delicacies, and they deliver at your doorstep. The part that the app is cross-platform and has a more comprehensive outreach is very advantageous for Uber eats as they get to maximize sales from clients using both Android and iOS.
Facebook Ads Manager
The Facebook Ad Manager is among the first cross-platform applications to be created and one that has one of the best features seen on a cross-platform app. It is very user-friendly, has an interactive UX interface, and easy navigation through the software. It is also very versatile, fitting its usage in multiple languages, formats, and time zones.
Take Away
Indeed cross-platforms might lower your budget and faster your production time, but it too has downsides. The first is that these apps have to be pretty straightforward and straightforward. If they are complex, they then take so much time to develop. The second downside is that before hitting the nail on the head, it might take the developers quite a number of trials and bug fixes to get it right.
Regardless, as tech is advancing, better ways of creating them are increasing too. Maybe in the future, we might not have to encounter these setbacks. Cross-platform apps have far more benefits, and technicians are working to make them better.