In the mobile application development sector, the arrival of 5G connectivity will not only transform the user experience, but will also open interesting opportunities for companies. native application development. These new possibilities will empower technology-driven businesses, e-commerce companies and developers to improve their applications.
The adoption of 5G-based use cases will also revolutionize the way we live.
What is a native application?
A native app is like a software application tailored for a specific platform or operating system by software development company
For example, your laptop may come equipped with applications such as an audiobook library or media players that work seamlessly both online and offline. Although certain products or programs can be accessed as web applications, native applications are not mere replicas of their corresponding websites. They require independent development.
But normally, when we mention native applications, we mean native mobile applications. These are apps that have been meticulously custom-built for specific device platforms like iOS or Android. These two operating systems dominate the market, representing more than 99% of operating systems worldwide in 2023.
With a large market share, native mobile applications are the preferred option for companies that want to consolidate their presence in the digital world.
Advantages of native application development
Developing native mobile applications is like creating custom suits. Not only do they look impeccable, but they adapt perfectly to the user, leaving no room for delays or glitches.
Although native mobile app development seems expensive and time-consuming, its is worth investing time and money in the long run. /span>
Improved performance
Native apps have a clear advantage when it comes to response times and processing speed. This inherent advantage ensures a smooth, lightning-fast and efficient user experience.
Apps designed for a specific platform integrate seamlessly with the device's hardware, taking advantage of the operating system's resources to deliver optimal performance. This deep integration enables faster performance and response times, making them ideal for performance-focused applications such as games and graphics-intensive applications.
Consistent style and feel
In native application development, using native SDKs (software development kits) ensures that user interfaces remain consistent with their respective platforms. This seamless integration between the app design and the operating system improves the overall user experience by eliminating any discrepancies.
People feel at home with the familiar layouts of your operating system, making your app immediately easy to use.
Higher level of security
According to the ACMA surveyAustralians prioritize security in applications that handle their personal data. 36.5% of respondents believe that mobile banking applications should have the highest level of security, while 15.9% think the same about electronic wallet, money transfer and payment applications.
Native applications are more secure because they take advantage of the security protocols built into operating systems. Unlike a hybrid app, native apps are tailored to a specific platform.
Greater commitment
Whether you develop a native application for iOS or Android, they take advantage of the basic functions of the device: accelerometer, GPS, camera, speakers and microphone . This means they can offer an interactive experience to every user.
The ease of access and notification capabilities of native apps translate into higher engagement rates. With the help of push notifications, users receive real-time information that keeps them engaged.
Easy search in app stores
Many factors collectively contribute to native apps being discovered in app stores, and developers have full control over them. These include app store optimization (ASO) and choosing keywords and visuals for the app page.
Native apps have a better chance of being discovered in app stores thanks to their optimized user interfaces and faster download speeds. As long as you follow the guidelines of the native platform you choose, you'll have more flexibility and control when it comes to visibility in app stores.
The cons of native app development
Despite its many advantages, native mobile app development comes with its own challenges. If you decide to go the native route, you should be aware of the potential pitfalls and plan how to address them.
Listed below are some of the most common cons associated with native mobile app development.
Longer development time
Developing code for multiple platforms takes longer because you have to write and maintain different code for each platform. Developers have to take into account the specific specifications and requirements of each platform and ensure that everything works correctly. And don't forget, extensive testing and debugging on multiple platforms can also increase development time.
Having dedicated teams working simultaneously on iOS and Android apps allows you to overcome the time constraints that come with developing native apps. This approach unlocks the power of parallel development, leading to accelerated timelines and a smoother journey to success.
An expensive affair
Here's the harsh reality: the longer it takes to develop, the more it will cost you. And when it comes to mobile app development for different platforms, time and budget can quickly get out of hand. If you are thinking of hiring specialized development teams for each platform, then prepare for even higher costs.
But there is good news. Although native apps may initially cost more than other app solutions, they often provide a better return on investment (ROI) in the long term. That's why you need product ideation to help you create the most effective solutions for your target audience.
Not all users can access
One of the disadvantages of developing native applications is their limited accessibility and reduced reach among customers. You may be familiar with the frustration of wanting to download an app that is only available on the iOS or Android operating systems.
This is a fairly common situation. Many software development companies do not have the resources to create an app for the Android and iOS platforms, or they cannot release it on all platforms simultaneously.
As a result, not only are potential users of the app disappointed, but the company also misses out on a unique marketing opportunity that only arises when all smartphone users can access the app in question.
The solution we can offer you is cross-platform development.
Native Apps vs Cross-Platform Apps
If native apps are built for one operating system, a cross-platform app can be used on different operating systems and devices. These types of applications are built with web technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc., which allows the creation of a single code base that can be deployed on more than one platform.
Native mobile apps offer superior user experience and performance, albeit at a higher cost. With lower defect rates and better visual effects, they provide a smooth experience. On the other hand, cross-platform app development is quick and easy, but achieving an equivalent user experience across all platforms requires more effort.
If you choose the latter, consider investing in cross-platform tools, such as Back4App, Firebase, React Native or Xamarin.
Native Apps vs Hybrid Apps
If a native application is a tailored suit, hybrid applications are like a versatile suit that works on any operating system, sharing the same code base. So, if custom apps are your thing, be prepared for your developers to write separate code for both iOS and Android Platforms.
From an enterprise software development company point of view hybrid application development is easier and more cost-effective, but there may be delays and compatibility issues. On the other hand, a native mobile application offers better performance and uses the features of native devices, but requires separate development for each platform.
Ultimately, the decision between native and hybrid apps depends on development resources, performance needs, and target audience.
Native Apps vs Web Apps
A native application resides on mobile devices, while a web application is accessed through a browser. Native apps are designed for specific platforms like iOS or Android, while web apps run in browsers and are accessed online. a>
Both are great tools for delivering computer applications to users. Web applications are super easy to develop and maintain, and you can access them from any device. And the best? No app store charges a commission, making it easy to market and scale.
The only time a native app is a better choice than a web app is when the hardware and native features of the device are crucial for the app to work. Therefore, if you are looking for a better user experience, native development may be the best option for you.
Examples of native mobile applications
Now that you have a better understanding of what a native app is, let's take a look at some of the most successful native mobile apps.
Pokémon GO
Pokémon Go is a stunning augmented reality (AR) mobile game that was the big hit of 2016 on the App Store. It's cool because it turns the real world into a game map and lets you be the controller. You can catch, train, and battle virtual Pokémon, just like Generations Y and Z watched Pokémon trainers on Toonami.
The functions you use from your mobile device are:
GPS
Camera
Accelerometer
Gyroscope
Waze
Waze is a popular GPS navigation application for mobile devices. It offers turn-by-turn information, route details and travel times submitted by users. With positive feedback from drivers around the world, Waze is a must-have native app that is free to download and use.
The functions you use from your mobile device are:
GPS
Camera
Accelerometer
Compass
Spotify
A popular native, cross-platform service, Spotify is a must-have for music lovers. This digital music service offers access to thousands of songs and podcasts from labels and media outlets around the world. It is also a leading example of a cloud-native application that leverages Google Cloud to improve performance and user experience.
The functions you use from your mobile device are:
Wifi
Microphone
Bluetooth
Should you build a native mobile app in 2024?
2023 is a great year to develop mobile applications. With new technologies like augmented reality thanks to voice and facial recognition technology, you can create truly unique experiences that you won't find in mobile or desktop web applications. desktop.
At Sparkout Tech, we have been bringing software development services like mobile app development services to businesses for several years now. Our team of experts has the knowledge and experience to help you launch your app on mobile platforms, from healthcare to retail and lifestyle.