How to Build a Successful App for iOS and Android

Let’s be real. Every good business has an app idea in mind. This could be an e-commerce store. Or it could be a gaming app that keeps players hooked. Whether it’s a finance app or a productivity tool, every company’s dream remains the same. Creating a successful app. Especially when iOS and Android app development are both successful.

Here’s the thing: your app’s idea simply isn’t enough. It may be cool. But lots of “cool” apps launch every day. These cool apps fade into the abyss quicker than you know. All those efforts and dollars… wasted. So, how do you make sure your app stands out?

That’s the big question in iOS and Android app development. How do you build something that gets downloads and keeps users coming back? You’ll find the answer to this big question in our guide. Make sure to read to the end.

We’ll help you choose the right frameworks. We’ll also tell you how to deliver the perfect user experience. Let’s dive in and learn more about iOS and Android app development:

What is the difference between iOS and Android app development?

This is the foremost thing you should understand. There are many differences between iOS and Android app development. Of course, they are two distinct operating systems. Yet, developing one app capable of adapting to both can bring massive success to businesses.

It can even give that company a competitive advantage. So why would you skip the chance? Let’s walk through the differences. Understanding them can help you:

Programming languages

iOS apps are only specific to the Apple platform. They’re only meant for Apple devices and versions. Android apps work on various devices. This diversity means that they have to match certain standards. The same goes for iOS, too. So, different programming languages are used in the app’s development. Generally:

• iOS apps are written using Swift and Objective-C. These are popular options for the iOS platform.
• Android apps are written using Java or Kotlin. Kotlin is Google’s preferred language for Android app development.

All these languages have powerful development abilities for apps. This variety naturally means that developers need to have expanded expertise. Both platforms have different programming languages. So, they require distinct codes and functions for each individual platform.

Integrated Development Environment

This is a software app that gives you a developing environment. Here, you can create code more quickly. They’re also platform-specific, so you don’t have to work too hard to get everything right. Both operating systems are different. So, Android and iOS both have their own Integrated Development Environments. These are:

• Xcode 15 for iOS. This platform lets you develop, test, and deploy apps for Apple devices.
• Android Studio for Android. Android Studio lets you develop, test, and deploy apps for Android devices.

Both of these are the ideal and preferred IDEs for these platforms. Despite this, you can find other options and choose them if you’d like. Some examples would be Visual Studio with Xamarin for Android. CodeRunner is a popular option for iOS.

User Interface Design

A user interface makes up the visual elements of a software or app. This is what users see and interact with. Good UI/UX design is the key to a successful app. In iOS and Android app development, there are different design principles and guidelines. This means that each platform will get a different user interface. For example:

• Almost all iOS apps have a more simple and minimalistic design. This follows the design principles of iOS.
• However, Android apps roll out more customization options. They also have a complex design. This is because they run on various devices.

There are several other design principles and guidelines. In iOS and Android app development, following these guidelines is a must. Your app may not cross the approval stage if you don’t follow them. This way, your app won’t even reach beyond the deployment stage.

Fragmentation

Fragmentation happens when multiple versions of the same OS exist. Generally, this is quite common with the Android OS. It runs on various devices. All have different requirements. Software fragmentation isn’t a problem for Apple devices. This is because the iOS system is exclusive to Apple devices. For example:

• Android devices come in lots of screen sizes and resolutions. So, they also require different hardware configurations. All of this makes app development more challenging.
• iOS devices have lesser screen sizes and resolutions. So, the hardware configurations aren’t that complex. This makes it easier and quicker to develop apps consistently.

However, Fragmentation is still possible in iOS. Often, it’s because older devices are still in use. They tend to have different requirements. Some apps demand the latest iOS version. Due to this, Fragmentation raises concerns. But don’t worry. When you hire Android developers and experienced iOS ones, this can be avoided.

Open-source vs closed-source

Anything that’s open-source means it’s publicly available. So when software is open-source, anyone can modify and distribute it. Of course, this involves following the defined licensing terms. Closed-source is the opposite of this. But why would it matter? Because in an open-source OS, more outside developers have access to change it.

• Only some parts of iOS are open-source. This is under the Apple Public Source License. Yet, in general, it is closed-source.
• As we know, Android is primarily free. So, it is open-source under the Apache License. Android does have some closed-source elements.

The source nature affects your development process. In iOS and Android app development, this nature plays a huge role. It changes how developers build and optimize apps. This affects the customization and flexibility that developers get when creating their app.

Security

Security is a vital aspect of the digital world. Most apps allow users to log in with their Google accounts. They’re linked to private and sensitive user data. In the past, Android wasn’t so secure. But recently, it has created stronger protocols. This helps protect its file system. Apple’s closed-source nature makes it more secure.

• In Android, the protocols manage how the apps interact with each other. They need permission and cannot do things by default.
• Apple keeps updating its older devices in terms of security, too. It follows strict guidelines that make iOS a more secure platform.

These factors affect the iOS and Android app development. So, iOS apps generally face fewer security risks. Meanwhile, Android developers have to take some extra precautions. This helps them secure their apps as well. It helps provide a secure user experience.

Can the same apps work on both iOS and Android?

So, you’re thinking about developing different apps for both platforms. What about the effort, time, and investments you’ll have to put into that? You’ll have to work hard on the same app two different times, following other guidelines. This will get overwhelming in no time. It will also significantly raise the software development costs.

This is why there are some options for a cross-platform solution. A cross-platform solution is when software is capable of running on multiple platforms. This also includes operating systems. You can get the work done quicker without worrying about all that draining work. Let’s see what options we have:

Cross-platform apps

Cross-platform apps are simple. They are applications that function on different operating systems. They work on distinct platforms and don’t require separate versions. This significantly simplifies the development process. This is how:

• You write code once. You can run it anywhere, saving time and resources.
• There’s no need to hire separate teams for iOS and Android app development. One team will get the work down.
• Updates and bug fixes apply across all platforms. This way, maintenance is easy.

It uses a single codebase. So, these apps are platform-agnostic. They work regardless of which operating system is powering the device. However, they have limitations due to their nature. But at least you don’t have to create two separate apps!

Native apps

Native apps are built specifically for one operating system. This could be either iOS or Android. Think of a person native to a city. A native app works the same way. Native apps use platform-specific programming languages and tools. This is how they work:

• They follow the platform’s UI/UX design guidelines. This makes the app feel natural to users.
• These apps need to be deployed to the specific app Stores. This ensures that they meet platform-specific guidelines and principles.
• They can fully access the device’s native features. This includes hardware components like GPS and the camera.

What if you want the same native app on both platforms? You’ll have to develop two separate native versions. Both apps share the same logic and features. The design is also the same. However, they require separate coding. And these aren’t lines and lines of code. It’s just a few changes.

Progressive Web Apps (PWA)

A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a web-based application. This means it works in a browser. Yet, it acts like a native app. This way, it provides a mobile app-like experience. It doesn’t have to be downloaded from the App Store or Play Store.

• The code for a PWA is written in one language. It works on multiple platforms. This is because it isn’t using any native UI components.
• PWAs use caching to function even with limited or no internet. They can also send notifications.
• They are quick and responsive. They also work on desktops other than mobile phones.

Progressive web apps are not connected to the operating system. So they don’t have access to the device’s resources. Due to this, they tend to run slower. They’re also less effective and don’t get high usage rates.

How to start with iOS and Android app development?

Building a successful mobile app isn’t just about writing a few lines of code. It covers various aspects. The right approach is what makes all the difference. Now, Let’s start with the steps in iOS and Android app development.

Step 1: Market research and competitor analysis

So, you have an amazing app idea. Yet, you don’t know what your competitors are doing without thorough market research. Someone else might already have the same idea as you. Maybe your competitors are doing better than your idea.

This is where market research will help. It will let you refine your idea. You can look at the areas where your rivals are lacking. Hence, you can build a stronger idea. It takes users only a few seconds to switch to a competitor. So give them something worth staying for.

Step 2: Planning and prototyping

At this stage, you can create a detailed plan and user journey for your app. How many screens will it have, and where will the elements go? Here, you can make a rough plan to have an idea about how your app will handle things. A wireframe can help you with this.

After you have a wireframe, you may want to visualize and test your idea. A prototype resembles the final product. You don’t even need to do coding for this. With the right tools, you can just drag and drop the UI components. You can even visualize the sitemaps and more.

Step 3: Consider an MVP

An MVP is a minimum viable product. It lets you test the core concept and idea of your app. You can develop a lightweight app or software with a minimum viable product. You can launch it and analyze how users use it.

So, an MVP lets you launch only the core concept of your app. You can test it with users. This is the purpose of a minimum viable product. It lets you get feedback so that you know whether your app idea is worth it. It’s like a form of validation testing.

Step 4: Choose the right tech stack

A tech stack is your chosen set of programming languages and frameworks. This also includes libraries and tools. Android frameworks are different from iOS frameworks. It’s vital to choose the right ones. They work like ingredients in a cooking recipe.

Your chosen app stack will help you write the code for an app. Swift and Objective-C are the popular options for an iOS tech stack. Java and Kotlin are the popular options for Android app development. The iOS and Android frameworks that you choose depend on your project.

Step 5: Design the UI and UX

In this step, you work on creating the UI/UX design. You can also test the app’s design using a minimum viable product. Creating an app that looks good to both iOS and Android users needs a strong focus on the user interface and user experience elements.

Your app should maintain a consistent appearance across the different platforms. The interactions and experiences across both platforms should feel similar. The usability also matters. The aesthetic comes after the usability.

Step 6: Develop the Backend Side

This won’t be needed if you’re building an offline app. You will need to create backend services for offline apps. This will handle business logic and process data offline. You need to hire Android developers to create the backend services.

This is because backend services require a very different skill set. Basically, the backend side manages everything that goes around in the background of an app. So, it’s very different from the front-end side.

Step 7: Perform Software Testing

Often, teams are rushing to launch their product. This is due to competition. It’s also because they want to be better than their competitors. Many companies skip testing because of this. This overconfidence has caused many apps to fail.

You need to conduct multiple tests. This will help you ensure that your app is good. It shouldn’t have any bugs. You don’t want your software to crash or lag after users install it. 25% of users abandon an app after they use it just once. Do better and conduct the necessary tests.

How do you deploy apps to the app stores?

Your iOS and Android app development is complete. Now comes the deployment. 90% of startups fail, and a poor product launch is one of the major reasons. There are some proper guidelines that you need to follow during deployment. This ensures optimizing your app and adding high-quality images for your app.

You also have to add a good description and icon for your app. This way, you’re able to make your app look appealing. If it isn’t attractive, why would users install it?

Google Play Store

This is the default app store for Android. Android also allows you to download apps through third-party sources. This isn’t safe. So, it’s best that you choose the Google Play Store for deployment. To successfully launch your app, follow these steps:

• Create a Developer Account: Sign up for a Google Play Developer account. You will have to pay a one-time $25 fee.
• Prepare Your App: Test for bugs and optimize the performance. You have to ensure compliance with Google’s policies.
• Generate a Signed APK/AAB File: Android apps are uploaded in APK (Android Package Kit) or AAB (Android App Bundle) formats.
• Fill in the App Details: Provide an engaging description and beautiful app icon. You should also include screenshots and videos to attract users.
• Set Pricing & Distribution: Choose if your app is free or paid. Then, you can select the regions where it will be available.
• Submit for Review: Google will review your app. This can take a few hours to a few days before approval.

That’s it! Your app will be successfully launched on the Android platform!

Apple App Store

Apple has strict policies and guidelines. This is why it does not let its users download apps from third-party sources. This provides better security and ensures downloads from its own secure platform. This makes it a bit harder to launch. For a successful launch, follow these steps:

• Enroll in the Apple Developer Program: A $99/year fee is required to publish apps. So without it, you can’t move further.
• Prepare Your App: Follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines for UI/UX. Then, test your app using TestFlight.
• Package Your App with Xcode: iOS apps are submitted via Xcode in IPA. It is the iOS App Store Package format.
• Fill in Metadata: Add an app name and description. The keywords and screenshots will help optimize the app. Then, finally, add an appealing icon.
• Set Pricing & Availability: Choose your business model. Do you want a free or subscription app? You’ll also see the option for in-app purchases. Also, add the target markets.
• Submit for Review: Apple’s review process is stricter than Google’s. It can easily take up to a few days.

Don’t forget the maintenance and updates

Your app is now live. Yet, the work doesn’t stop here. This is when you’ll integrate mobile analytics software with your app. This will help you update and improve your app and keep it secure. Regular maintenance and updates are very important if you’re aiming to have a successful app.

• Fix Bugs & Improve Performance: No app is perfect at launch; it’s okay. But updating them will at least help resolve issues.
• Enhance Security: Regular updates protect user data. They comply with new security standards.
• Introduce New Features: Keep your app relevant. This can be done by adding exciting new functions.
• Stay Competitive: Continuously improve your app. This will help you stay ahead of your competitors. It’s vital if you’re a business.

Both Google Play Store and Apple App Store allow developers to roll out updates easily. There are no extra efforts. In fact, 46.1% of Android apps are uninstalled within 30 days of download in 2024. This is partially due to a lack of any proper updates and maintenance.

What are the Best Practices for iOS app development?

Following best practices will guarantee success for your app. In iOS and Android app development. you might follow these best practices for iOS:

Follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines (HIG)

Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines (HIG) provide a set of principles. They intend to help developers design apps that feel native to iOS.

Ensure Compatibility Across iOS Versions and Devices

Not all users can upgrade to the latest iOS version immediately. This is why you should ensure compatibility with multiple iOS versions. This also includes different Apple devices: iPhone and iPad.

Guarantee Smooth App Store Submission

Apple’s App Store Review Guidelines are strict. To avoid rejection, make sure to follow Apple’s content and functionality rules. Your app shouldn’t crash during Apple’s review process.

Implement Analytics for Insights

Integrate app analytics tools with your app. Firebase Analytics or Apple’s App Store Connect are great examples. These help you track user behavior and performance metrics.

What are the Best Practices for Android app development?

If you want to ensure success for your app, following these best practices can be very beneficial. In iOS and Android app development. You can follow these best practices for Android:

Follow Material Design Guidelines

Android follows Google’s material design guidelines. They help ensure consistency across different screen sizes. So, the apps also feel native.

Reduce App Size

We don’t want huge app sizes to discourage users. You should keep your app size small so it doesn’t take much storage space on a device.

Prioritize UI/UX design

User experience plays an important role in retaining users. You should focus on optimized layouts and smooth navigation.

Implement Proper Error Handling

Bugs and crashes can damage your app’s reputation. Make sure you test your app before launch. Glitches can discourage users.

Wrapping it up

iOS and Android app development are complex processes. But with the right team by your side, it won’t be a problem. Apps are complicated. The backend and frontend sides are both distinct. They require separate skill sets. A lot of investments and efforts go into developing an app. Get an experienced team to help you with it.

Linkitsoft is an experienced software house. Our front-end and back-end developers work together and collaborate to create a powerful and responsive app. We prioritize collaboration and honesty in all projects, even if they’re small or big.

Why choose Linkitsoft for iOS and Android app development?

Our software house has completed several iOS and Android app development projects. We have worked for diverse clients. You should select our company because:

• We develop powerful and responsive apps that adjust to different screen sizes.
• Our team follows the latest industry standards to ensure smooth functionality and high performance.
• We prioritize user-friendly UI/UX designs. This helps keep users engaged and enhances their experience.
• Our apps are optimized for security, speed, and scalability. All the features you need for an enterprise-level app.

Get in touch with us today. Let Linkitsoft be your partner in app development of any size. You might need a native or even PWA solution for your idea. Whatever it is, our skilled developers are here to bring your vision to life. Don’t wait for your competitors to do better. Contact us today!