Top 5 Programming Languages for Mobile App Development

by Marc Berman

These days, it’s difficult to imagine a business without its own app. Mobile apps are everywhere: they allow flexibility, access to all the features, and simple payment methods that work as quickly as their website versions. Whether you have a startup or your company has already earned a name for itself, creating an app will give you a chance to connect with more customers and make their experience even more satisfying.

There is a problem, though, and it concerns the variety of programming languages out there. Which of them should you choose? How do they differ, and what unique features will benefit your business most? 

You’re about to find out! We prepared an overview of the top 5 programming languages that thrive in the world of app building. Discover more about each of them, and build an app that will please you and your clients. 

1. JavaScript (with React Native)

Even people who barely know anything about programming have heard about JavaScript. It’s a dynamic language that’s ideal for developing websites. Its convenience and flexibility made it so popular that Facebook decided to create React Native, a tool that allows using JavaScript for mobile app development. Many businesses, especially in the food industry, now rely on a Food Delivery App Development Company to leverage technologies like React Native for building high-performance, cross-platform food delivery apps.  

Here are the features that make this programming language stand out:

• Excellent scalability. JavaScript is one language that works for two target audiences: you can create apps for both Android and iOS devices with its help.  
• Based on components. The whole language is structured in a way that requires you to build an app in parts; this approach simplifies the building process, plus you can easily reuse the parts you create later.  
• Native modules. If you want to add some unique features to your app that JavaScript doesn’t cover, you can simply rely on Android or iOS native code.
• Various plugins. Every day, new apps are being developed on the basis of JavaScript; this fact lets you take a look at the existing products and reuse the tools you consider suitable for your own app.   
• Live changes. If you plan to make updates or corrections to your app, you can do it and see the effect right away — JavaScript allows making live changes.

If you’re building an app for a B2B business, don’t just focus on features—focus on growth too. Tools like Clodura.AI help you supercharge lead generation by offering AI-powered lead generation prospecting, contact data, and automated outreach—perfect for turning your app into a revenue-driving machine.

React Native works with actual mobile components, so your app will be native. It’s the best choice for businesses specializing in the areas of social media, learning, news, shopping, etc.

2. Kotlin

If you want to create an app for Android devices first and foremost, Kotlin should be among your first choices. This is a relatively new programming language, but it’s already known as one of the safest and most powerful ones for mobile app development. 

Its key feature includes extension functions. If you want to add something new to your app, you don’t have to worry about changing the existing code: just introduce the changes as they are, and Kotlin will take care of the rest.  

In addition, there is null safety. You can avoid annoying glitches where the app tries to find something that cannot be accessed since Kotlin has a built-in safety against such issues. 

Also, Kotlin offers smart type guessing. It understands what types of data you’re using and adapts to it accordingly; it means that you can relax a little and write less code. 

There is high reactivity, too. Your user will be able to do several things when using your Kotlin-based app, a factor that leads to increased customer satisfaction. 

Kotlin helps create mobile apps in a faster and safer way. It’s a perfect choice for those catering to Android users and gamers. In addition, if you want your app to offer real-time functions like chats, Kotlin will definitely suit you. 

3. Swift

We have just reviewed an app for Android users; Swift, in turn, is an excellent option for businesses that work with iOS users. This top programming language was developed by Apple itself, so it gives you a chance to use Apple support in the development process. Look at these features:

• Extra safety. If you make a mistake during app development, Swift will likely catch it in time, before your app goes live. 
• Automatic reference counting. To stay true to its name, Swift processes all the things you do quickly, handling the memory you’re taking up and letting your app stay fast no matter what. 
• Error management. You can rely on Swift as your guide in everything concerning errors, as it’s known to manage them in record time.
• Playgrounds. Apple has prepared special playgrounds where you can test Swift and see how it works, performing as many experiments as you’d like.

Naturally, all the apps developed with the help of Swift can be integrated with other Apple tools. You should go for this programming language if you plan to target iOS users and your business deals with fitness, health, finances, and so on. 

4. Dart (with Flutter)

Do you want an app that suits different audiences, from those using Android to iPhone owners and desktop users? Dart is the right option for you, then — or rather Flutter, a tool developed on its basis. 

Dart was developed by Google, and combined with Flutter, it makes for a universal language that helps create apps with just one set of code. It offers enhanced personalization. Yes, this makes Flutter more complex as it requires you to shape the designs and parts you want to see by yourself; on the other hand, this gives you an infinite range of opportunities for customization. 

It’s also widget-based. To build an app with Flutter, you’ll have to work with small widgets separately: add buttons, then texts, then images.  

There are smooth graphics: whatever animations you add are going to look flawless, as Flutter uses a fast graphics engine. In addition, you can enjoy live changes. When the app owner makes any edits, they get to see them take effect in real time, a fact that saves time and effort. 

Flutter is a top option for creative developers who want their apps to look as customized as possible. It’ll be perfect for business apps and tools that heavily rely on animation. 

5. Python (with Tools)

Python is another programming language that almost every person has heard of. It is simple enough to be mastered by amateurs, so if you’re developing your first app, you should definitely consider using it.

While Python in its pure form is used for more traditional programming, when you pair it with tools like Kivy or BeeWare, you get an opportunity to build an excellent app. Here are the features you should know about:

• Simplicity. You can master Python quickly due to the ease of use, so even as a total newbie, you’ll be able to develop your app ASAP.
• Universal use. Python works with one set of code, but it is applicable to multiple platforms and devices, including both Android and iOS. 
• AI-friendly. If you plan to add AI features to your app, Python will simplify the building process.
• Multi Touch functionality. Interactive apps can benefit greatly from Python, as it fully supports the functioning of mobile games and other touch-based tools.

Business owners who are only starting to test their ideas and want a simple, friendly app can make great use of Python as long as they use it in combination with Kivi or BeeWare. Student apps, AI apps, prototypes — if your idea falls into this category, you should give it a go.

Choose an Ideal Language for Your App

There is a programming language for every business, so as long as you understand your needs, you’ll be able to choose something that suits you perfectly. Some languages exist just for Android or iOS devices; others are universal and can adapt to different audiences.

Consider your programming experience, too. Do you have a team that can take care of creating a complex app, or perhaps you have an impressive experience yourself? If so, you can work with more challenging languages like Kotlin and Swift. Python and JavaScript will be a fantastic choice for developers with little or even no experience, while Dart can suit those with average skills.

Decide what you want to achieve and pick a programming language based on your self-analysis. Today, you can bring any vision to life — you just have to figure out which programming language will get you there.