Mobile app development for Android
At first sight, developing mobile applications on Android and iOS seems similar, however, if we immerse in all the technical details, it becomes obvious that specificities of each operating system have significant impact on the way developers have to realise the different projects. Not only there are differences in technical terms but also in mobile design and mobile marketing terms, in other words, all along the application conception and even during the promotion.
Structure of the project
For iOS, Xcode has only few constraints concerning the work organisation because it is possible to create docs and files where you want and then just refer to them. However, there are still some
nomenclatures the developer needs to follow like adapting the icons to the different monitor resolutions. The structure for Android is more rigid. Classification rules must always be respected, for the docs, files and resources. For the Android’s developer, organisation is a key competence.
Test phase
At this phase, developers use an emulator for Android applications and a simulator forniOS applications. The main difference between the two is that the simulator is significantly faster because it only imitates the software environment, while the emulator reproduces additionally the hardware environment. The iOS simulator does not imitate the processor or hard drive performances and does not take into account the memory constraints. To conclude, even though the emulator is slower, it allows to test the application in more realistic conditions. As far as possible, it is recommended to test directly the application on devices. It is the best method to detect every possible loophole hardwarerelated.
Programmation languages
iOS uses ObjectiveC and the very recent Swift, built to coexist with ObjectiveC. To create Android app, you need to use the Java language.
Graphic interface
Application developers got to use XML files in order to build Android interfaces. They are very similar to XIB files used in iOS, except that they are directly deployable. During the development, Xcode will convert the files in NIB files to be able to include them in the app. Concerning animations, Apple rather highlights aesthetics and user experience and always endeavoured more flexible, complexe and performant animations. Google has been more preoccupied with hardware settings, but has also tried to improve its graphic performances on its devices form the Android Lollipop version. Mobile design is strictly conditioned by technicals aspects of the application development. Each operating system has a logic of its own. When in doubt, if your project in well adapted to each platform requirements, do not hesitate to contact our web design agency in Bangkok, we will answer your questions with pleasure.
Costs and mobile marketing
A technically perfect application is not necessarily a successful application. Mobile marketing is a huge part of your project so you will need to take in consideration other differences.
Mobile app costs
The difference is not significant but developing under iOS is slightly more expensive, due to a reduced availability on the iOS developers market. Furthermore, developers need to largely invest in Apple devices.
Application monetisation
It can be useful to know that iOS users pay more and more often for applications and their content than Android users. Android applications are most often free and their monetisation go through advertising. Pimclick has worked on many mobile application, here some example: Google Chromecast, Gallerie’s Night, Tao Kae Noi, Sephora or GuideThai. Contactus at our agency in Bangkok for more details.