You have a successful web app and you’re debating whether you should go mobile or not? Nowadays, mobile development is equally important as web products – after all, think about how often you and people around you use smartphones. It could seem a bit complicated to move to mobile but don’t worry, we’re here to offer a helping hand.
You’ve probably implemented a few web projects – from big investments to little features’ updates – so you know the technological and business risks involved. In this instance, mobile development is basically the same. If you want your product can benefit from additional interaction with the users (mobile market by the end of 2019 hit 5.11 billion users!), then you’re on your way to the mobile development land.
The basics of mobile development
You’d think – what’s so complicated about a mobile app? All you need to do is download it from a shop, install and you’re ready to go. It’s basically a tiny computer that you can fit in your bag or pocket – what can go wrong?
Firstly, you need to decide whether you’re gonna support your web product by creating a native mobile app or a hybrid one. And of course, what operating system your app is going to run on (99% of the market is Android and iOS anyways, so these two are a must).
Usually, native mobile apps are going to be a better idea – you’ll advantage from all the native features of both mobile environments. But if you need a simple MVP to test your brand new business plan, a cross-platform hybrid app seems more fitting solution (React Native development will be of help here). Experienced mobile developers will surely advise you about a perfect mobile development option for your plan.
Planning your idea
Before you start developing your mobile app you need to know that they do have some limitations. The aforementioned two biggest mobile platforms: Apple iOS and Google Android have their own rules and regulations. They have sets of review guidelines which you have to apply during mobile development. They change all the time, so make sure your mobile developers know the latest regulations.
There’s also versioning. You can’t target all operating systems and devices (it’s just impossible to do), so you’ll have to pick the most popular ones with stats for Android and iOS. The rule is – target the versions with the most users (Android) and two latest versions (iOS).
Security
Users are obsessed with security – and for the right reasons, considering how many cyberattacks happen all the time. You don’t want your users’ data to be stolen or used in illegal activities. So make sure your app meets all the security requirements. Rule of thumb is – don’t do anything that you personally would have a problem with.
Testing
How to ensure that your app not only looks but works great? Quality Assurance. Imagine if you had an app that was really useful but crashed all the time. Delete, and no going back. You don’t’ want to lose users just because the app wasn’t tested properly.
Amongst things that need to be tested we have: performance issues (crashes, slow loading), connectivity (how does app react when it loses network), multi-language adjustments (words may differ in length depending on language, so when you change it, the text might go beyond designated text field and simply look bad), appearance on various devices (different screen size, colours).
As you can see, there’s A LOT to consider before you even start developing your mobile app. Luckily, there are plenty of professional software companies that can help you with your mobile development. Just remember to choose your team wisely!
