TECHNOLOGY |
TECHNOLOGY
For many years App development companies had been looking for solutions to develop tools for apps that could run on any platforms, or in a single integrated development environment(IDE). Cross-platform apps were developed using a single source code that could be run on multiple platforms and devices.
There are advantages to native applications, but a well-made cross-platform app will make the differences seem small with the advantage of being able to run on more than one platform where your product or service will have access to. This makes cross platform apps popular with the corporate world.
The popularity of these apps also gives the benefit of a short marketing time with lesser cost involved in the development of these apps. They contribute to the two greatest advantages of using cross platform apps.
Some of these apps were initially used for making simple apps and games. Though technological advances have made, these apps more powerful and flexible than they were before, they are faced with some challenges which are
Performance issues
These apps face performance issues due to the integration problems with certain operating systems. This arises due to the lack of compatibility between the native and non-native components of the devices on which it runs. These apps perform lower in comparison with their native counterparts.
Limited number of tools
The app developers find it difficult to bring about a cross platform compliance as the tools for developing these apps are limited. We find Android and iOS platforms coming out with updated versions that are more advanced which leaves cross-platform apps lagging behind .
UX Challenges
It is not that cross platform apps doesn’t have a good user interface but they sometimes cannot match the seamless performance and attractive UI as the native apps. They fail to meet user expectations. The slow loading time with performance related issues can be very discouraging.
Security Issues
Cyber attacks are not at all that uncommon and mobile apps are vulnerable to them. With frequent updates, native apps are able to rectify their loopholes but cross-platform apps are not up to the level of that agility in addressing security issues. For apps that deal with a lot of corporate and business data, it would be better to opt for native apps.
Cross-platform app development companies are doing their best to address these challenges with the adoption of cutting edge tools and architecture.
Advantages
Low Maintenance Cost
These apps are developed using a single code which helps the maintenance of these apps easier than the native apps. Performing routine maintenance is also easier with respect to cross platform apps reducing the cost factor.
Reduced Development Cost
Cross platform app developers use reusable codes that saves a good deal of time and trouble in writing new codes. This helps in keeping the development cost comparatively low. Besides it also lets businesses run their apps on multiple platforms and devices for which cross platform apps can not be replaced.
Faster Development Process
With the advantage of being able to use a single source code across different platforms, the development efforts can be reduced significantly. It enables to innovate a feature-rich business app in less time. With fast developments deadlines do not create much of an issue.
Seamless Cloud Integration
Cloud integration can be done easily due to a single source code. Enterprise-grade plugins are available to integrate your business apps with the cloud can make them universally compatible.
The advent technology is however enabling cross platform apps to deliver native-like apps. The use of advanced tools and functionality are enabling developers to develop cross-platform apps bearing semblance to the native apps. It wouldn’t be far when cross platform apps will start delivering like the native apps.
Most Popular Cross-platform App Development Tools
There are a number of cross-platform frameworks available . The most popular ones are Xamarin, Ionic, React Native, and PhoneGap.
Ionic application development offers a good platform to handle business requirements with ensuring a smooth functioning with a single app code. It also provides a good UI with a native look.
React Native is popular in that it provides development tools for debugging and application packaging,which saves time.
Xamarin is built with c# and it offers continued effort to improve core tools for its delivery.
PhoneGap can provide an app that can run like web pages as it enables app developers to make an app with CSS, HTML, and JavaScript web languages. It provides for a good tool to create a static business app.
In short Cross-platform apps are much time saving in development and more popular with businesses for their device compatibility. More and more cross-platform app development tools are evolving with the advent of technological advancements, and developers can build enterprise-grade apps with ease.
Focaloid provides reliable, scalable and cost-effective cross-platform apps that are rich in features. We have catered to corporate clientele, besides a few SMEs with app solutions. Our apps excel in their user experience and UI interface. We design both native as well as cross platform apps that offers a seamless user experience.
Published:18/04/2024
Get in touch with us to schedule a consultation.
