Create an application for iPhone or Android? That is the question. When you start soliciting developers to get a quote for your application project, you will soon realize that the cost of developing your application will not be the same for both platforms. In general, prices for mobile application development for iOS are slightly higher than those of developing for Android. Do you know why?

The Development Of Mobile Applications For Android

Let’s start with Android, the most popular operating system in the world, whose market share is over 80%.

Basic features

• Created by Google, Android is distributed as open source. This means that any smartphone manufacturer may equip its aircraft if it wishes to or in other words, he is free to run the code on any machine. In addition, there are multiple sources for learning how to code with Android. Therefore, it is relatively easy to embark on the development of mobile applications for this operating system.
• Android is based on the Linux kernel.
• It is possible to adapt Android to the infinite number of terminals.
• Android uses SQLite for data storage.
• It uses a web browser based on WebKit.
• It supports HTML, HTML5 and Adobe Flash Player.
• Android provides the developer an emulator to test applications, tools for debugging memory and a performance analysis software.

Compatible mobile devices

The most known devices running Android are:

• Nexus
• Samsung
• Sony
• Huawei

The tools needed for developing mobile applications

Android SDK and the Eclipse IDE tools are ideal for embarking on the development of mobile applications for Android. They can be used from Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X or Linux, given the open-source nature of the operating system.

Android applications are mostly developed in Java. There are two platforms:

• JRE (Java Runtime Environment), which contains the JVM (Java Virtual Machine), the language of the base libraries and all the tools necessary to launch Android applications.
• JDK (Java Development Kit), which contains the JRE and set of tools for writing and debugging code.

The cost to get into the development of Android applications

To become an Android developer and publish applications on Google Play, you must first register as a developer at Google. The procedure is very simple and takes just a few minutes. It must fulfill the one-time registration fee of $ 25.
It should also invest in a smartphone, for example, Nexus 6 costs about $ 500 and a single computer to $ 400 on average. This leads to a cost of approximately $ 925.

The development of mobile applications for iOS

The impressive growth of Android in recent years is mainly at the expense of iOS which now holds a 15% market share.

Basic features

1. iOS is an operating system developed by Apple.
2. It is a variant of Mac OS X, which is the operating system for the Apple brand computers. It is based on Unix.
3. The installation of equipment other than the iOS is impossible.
4. Although it is a proprietary operating system for Apple devices, developers can freely make improvements to its SDK.
5. Unless jailbreak their smartphones, installing third-party applications is not possible.

Using Adobe Flash is allowed only from iOS 8, but users of iPhone, Touch or iPad to iPod with a version prior to iOS 8 can not take advantage of this update today.

Compatible mobile devices

Only Apple mobile devices can operate under the iOS operating system, including:

•  iPhone 4, 5, 6, etc.
• iPad, iPad Mini,
• iPod nano, iPod shuffle

The tools needed for developing mobile applications

Since the year 2008, any developer has been able to make use of free mobile app development kit for iPhone as well as iPod Touch. However, to use the app on devices and sell, you must register with the iPhone Developer Program, which pays him. The development of mobile applications for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad is only on Mac with Xcode application. Objective-C and Swift are the programming languages used to develop iOS applications.

The cost to get into the application development iOS

IOS developer license costs almost $ 99 per year. It should also be equipped with a smartphone whose price is on average $ 600 and a Mac at least $ 800. The total cost is then up to $ 1500.

The development of mobile applications for iOS is more expensive than that for Android, but the price difference is not explained by the costs that must engage developers. As you can see, the amounts do not differ much. The Android market is more competitive, and developers who venture there tend to lower their prices to retain their potential customers, however, the iOS market provides greater price stability.

Do you know that the development of an application does not stop even after its submission on the app store? Create and upload an application to abandon it is not recommended. You should constantly work to improve your app in all its aspects.
Even if you prepare well before you jump in development, there will always be a thousand ways to improve your application. This article will show you only those that are most important and at the same time, easier to apply.

Improvement # Adapting to new versions of operating systems

Undoubtedly, this is the most urgent improvement and the need for any mobile application. Always keep the source code to perform the updates each time.
Android and iOS app innovations from one version to another is not always great, but every change, even the smallest, can affect the use of your application.

It is also essential to stay abreast of developments in the field of mobile devices, especially if you realize the development of Android application because there are many smartphones and tablets running this operating system with very different screen sizes. Analyze regular types of devices your users use to adapt the display there.

Improvement # Bug fixes

Which is that application that never happened to quit unexpectedly? Even WhatsApp or Facebook, nothing is perfect. There is no ideal mobile application, and yours certainly is no exception to this rule. The good news is that nothing is final in application development, and it is, therefore, possible to make alterations to correct serious errors or bugs that appear sporadically.

It’s a simple change that can bring you a lot. Users will notice it quickly because getting rid of the bugs, you will improve the user experience and, thereby, significantly reduce the risk of abandonment of your application.

Improvement # Monitor trends in application design

This is the most complex improvement and we recommend performing this only when you make major changes in your application. The design is inseparable from the image of your brand, so be careful not to lose the essence of it when you make changes.
The applications world is changing at a breakneck pace, and it is also important to take into account new styles applied under Android, iOS and other operating systems. History shows that these changes can sometimes upset the design of applications. For example, in just a few years after the arrival of flat design, also called flat design, all applications have been rehabilitated to become “flat” and simpler,

Improvement # Improve the efficiency of the application

You can focus on improving your application screen by screen, but this is not always necessary. It is advisable to check from time to time efficiency and ease of use.

To do this, stop a moment to think about the details and not lean on the whole project. Ask yourself these questions: If the registration process is it not too long for desperate users? Are there any screens that have never been visited or unnecessary buttons? If you find the loopholes, fix them.

Improvement # Suggest new features

Some companies remain on the market without really innovating, but most of them must evolve to survive. This is absolutely vital for the digital sector. Mobile applications are part of this world, and you have to adapt to the market by offering new features and services to users with of course aim to leverage your business.

Improvement # Analyze and refine the user experience

Having a wonderful idea of the application and a business plan to make competitors pale is not enough to ensure the success of your project. Sometimes users do not like your application and they abandon it right after downloading. If this happens, it may be that the flow of interaction and user experience of your application is not optimal.

The best thing to do in this case is to consult a professional application developer who knows why your user behaves in one way or another and that will help to improve the functioning of your product. Often you just need a little editing to get everything in order. Sometimes rethinking the design and structure of the application may be necessary if you do not want your product to be relegated to the slums of online shops.

Need a developer to create your app? We can help you.

Improvement # Simplify or include more content

It is sometimes difficult to find a balance between “too much content” and “not enough content.” Check what your users say in the comments. You may discover they are lost in the multitude of information or sections available on your application or, on the contrary, they appreciate its contents and they are asking for more. If this is the case, do not rush and analyze what will be included in the next update so the application does not become obsolete and the content matches the needs of users.

Improvement # Analyze user behavior and define a strategy for your application development project

The analysis is an essential part of any application development project another. There are several tools, often available for free, for analyzing the behavior of users of an application. Identify aspects of your product that need improvement, based on data from a large number of users.

We all have them in our pockets right now, aren’t they? 

Yes, exactly, we are talking about smartphones. And the high-tech functionalities of those devices run to host applications that cater to every imaginable purpose of life. Today, businesses worldwide that used to promote their brand in the physical world by handing out leaflets, printing advertisements, and hanging billboards have migrated to the digital realm. And being a business owner, you should too. 

Here, you might be thinking that:

Your business doesn’t need a mobile application to sell products to your loyal customers. 

Let us clear you; this might have been successful in the past. But if you want to foresee your business becoming the “Unicorn” “of the future, then it is the right time to dive into mobile app development trends. Yet you are not convinced to develop a mobile app for your business. Then here are 8 worth-mentioning advantages of having a mobile application for your business. 

1. Increases Brand Awareness

Developing a mobile app is an effective solution to increase brand awareness more than any other marketing solution. Mobiles app for business guarantees more visibility and grabs the target audience’s attention, who are active mobile users. All mobile users prefer having every mobile app at their fingertips to avoid annoying advertising solution popups. Moreover, you can reach your desired brand awareness level with mobile applications in different ways like: 

• Launching new products for consumers and enabling push notifications
• Adding detailed business and product information
• Engage users in company events and activities announcements
• Attract more users with updates and new features launching of products
• Listing products or services prices and discounted deals

2. Business Engagement Level

The more installs of your mobile business app on potential customers keep your brand closer to them. A reliable mobile app increases the engagement level of your business through customized options and features as it provides: 

• Visible and available to clients around the clock
• Easy to use, allows quick buying and booking options
• Secure payment options and transactions
• Customer support service and effective options

However, to increase your mobile app engagement more and more, you have to add social features like: 

• Logging through social media accounts
• In-app messaging facility
• Like or Favorites options for appealing products
• Allow comments and reviews

Moreover, you can also customize your mobile app features based on user’s preferences, location, and interests. Thus, improving the users’ overall experience will make your user stay on it for a longer time. 

3. Extensive Capabilities

When discussing the advantages of mobile apps for business, it is hard to omit the fact that mobile apps open infinite opportunities to grow. For instance, if your business idea involves the use of a specific device’s features, then mobile apps are considered the best option. Similarly, a mobile application lets you take advantage of different device features. However, we know that the IT industry is advancing rapidly, and mobile applications are considered the best option to reach the target audience. 

4. Unlock Ultimate Power of Connection with Customers

It’s time to move beyond the personal, face-to-face communication between the customers and executives. With the changing times because of the COVID pandemic, social distancing is preferred both by customers and sellers. Resultantly, everyone looks forward to connecting to businesses online. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of mobile apps for their business and give them a better point of contact. Moreover, user activities on your business mobile application will help you decide whether they like and want to purchase your product or not. All you have to do to enjoy the benefits of mobile applications is to make sure your business is available to the customers. 

5. Build a Useful Marketing Channel

Once you have a mobile app for your business, you are in the hands of your customers. With several custom app development approaches, you can send notifications and information to customers in an instant. Seeing an attractive text in their notification bar, they will surely open your mobile app. Mainly, business mobile apps send information regarding exclusive deals and others to keep loyal customers using the app. 

6. Generate More Revenue with Mobile Apps

There are many ways to generate money with mobile apps. Moreover, it is said that the success and profitability of the mobile app rely on consumers and staff, not the targets. Earning profit from mobile apps is just one of the perfect ways to increase your business revenue. Generally, the most popular app monetization approaches are; advertising, in-app purchase, subscription models, and paid apps. At the same time, your smart mobile app will help you concentrate on your customer’s needs and desires. Simultaneously, you can also gather data from surveys, relevant statistics, details, and insights regarding your business growth. Furthermore, if you are already selling a product or service, you can double the app revenue with monetization strategies. 

7. Improve Customer Loyalty

Increasing the customer retention rate is the primary focus of every successful business. It is possible to maintain a high speed by offering great value to your customers and ensure customer satisfaction. So, following a loyalty program is an excellent approach to take things further. 

Implementing Loyalty Programs in Mobile Apps

Loyalty programs in mobile apps are for avoiding common mistakes most people commit. Here are some easy ways your can flow to integrate loyalty programs in your business mobile app experience:

• Offer app users instant rewards: One of many ways to treat customers is to implement a point system that rewards the buyers with a certain percentage of their purchase. However, make sure that users can only use these points for further purchases from your apps only.
• Provide Personalized Product Recommendations: To provide your users with the best product recommendations requires intelligently studying user activities. Then only you can recommend relevant products to your customers and keep them coming back for more. 
• Encourage Social Sharing: Integrating social media buttons will motivate app users to share their experience with your brand and product with their friends and family. 

8. Shine with a Competitive Edge in Your Niche

In the digital marketing realm, it is really hard to keep up with the competition. So, to gain an effective edge in the track of marketing, you can take advantage of mobile apps for business. Thus communication speed is vital for customer satisfaction. Rather than conventional websites and other web channels, mobile apps can better cater to customers’ demand for speed. 

Why should you Invest in Developing a Mobile App for Business? 

Benefits of Mobile App Development

Checking out the marketing industry trends, we will find that people are widely using mobile devices to keep in touch with customers and increase their brand awareness. Today, only the brands that provide potential customers with all the information quickly at their fingertips are successful. So, regardless of the business niche you are dealing in, the advantages of mobile apps for business are a lot, and investing in it is undoubtedly a big deal. Consider this initiative to develop a mobile app for your business to keep your business open 24/7. 

Still, need help on how a mobile application benefits your business? Discuss your business niche and targeted audience with Clustox’sTech Consultants. Whereas, if you are clear with the vision of the advantages of mobile apps for your business, then get in touch with the best mobile app developers in the town. We believe that your investment in mobile apps will help you reap endless benefits for longer. 

We have already talked much about native applications; what are they, how do they differentiate from hybrid or web apps. Nonetheless, when can you pick the native app as a solution and now today, we give you 4 major reasons for investing in the native mobile application for your business.

With great popularity, iOS and Android operating systems already have more than 2.5 million applications. There are many options for numerous functions, from the entertainment to the day-to-day corporate, through economic transactions, sales, and business.

In this sense, the native applications are excellent tools that companies can use as a differential. They can do it to provide its employees and customers. Understand the concept and advantages of native applications:

What is a native application? A Review!

A native application is one that is designed for use on a platform or specific device. For this feature, it can interact and take advantage of operating system features and other software that are installed on this platform. Following are the 4 major reasons you should consider for investing in a native application:

Technology Compatibility

Being built for the device operating system in question and thus have the ability to use specific hardware and software, the native application can take advantage of the latest technology available on mobile devices. You can synchronize with the global positioning system (GPS), the ultra-sensitive camera, accelerometer, a compass, etc., as well as an updated contact list.

Offline operation

Unlike web applications, native apps can be accessed when there is no internet connection. The reason is they are stored on the device and still use the operating system information to process the information and meet the user’s commands.
This is a differential that gives mobility to users. Imagine a business executive who needs to store information of an app via the app. But it is outside the 3G service coverage area. With the offline app, it can capture customer information without problems.

Speed

One of the major complaints of application users is as to their performance. How have direct access to the device’s operating system – and have been programmed in the native language of the device – native applications are faster than web apps (these are also totally dependent on web speed).

User Interface

Native applications promote a more consistent experience for the operating system and other platform applications. They may be more visually pleasing. This is because the design was according to the device’s language, generating more identity with the user.

The Facebook experience

The success of the world’s largest social network, Facebook, is marked by many experiments that did not work. So it was with the application for mobile devices, as told himself founder Mark Zuckerberg during a conference in the United States. “We took a lot of missteps. The biggest mistake we made as a company was betting too heavily on HTML5 instead of native … We wasted two years”. They achieved success, according to the executive, only after the native code for iOS and Android has been adopted.

Who already use Facebook Mobile realized in recent years to improve the application, which makes the case of the social network a great example of how native apps are excellent choices.
Of course, just because native applications have inherent advantages does not mean that every native mobile application is going to be effective. If you invest resources in building a mobile application, you should also invest in testing it for usability and impact generated by users. So it is important to look for a specialist company to develop the best solution to provide satisfaction to users.

In 2014 Brazilians bought 104 smartphones per minute. From January to December 54.5 million handsets were sold, representing a 55% growth compared to 2013. The information is from IDC, which also points to a rapid growth in sales of tablets: more than 2.3 million units only in the last half of 2015.
In this trend, sales of personal computers the (PCs) fell 26% compared to 2013. This shows how much consumers are more likely to experience for mobile communication, especially via the Internet.
Have you ever thought about how your business can benefit from this market movement? The provision of a mobile application for customers can improve customer service, the customer experience and increase interactivity with the brand. With the effective use of mobile applications, you can retain your customers. But how? Here are the four ways explained!

1 – Improve the brand experience

The apps are the most modern tools for communication of a brand today. With them, the consumer can make your purchases directly from your smartphone or tablet via a user-friendly navigation with easy navigation and in an interactive way.

The benefits come from innovative image to the possibility of improving interactivity with the consumer. With this you can collect information about your preferences. Also, you can offer educational content and entertainment in the business world of business.

2 – Consumer Behavior analysis

An app is one more tool that can demonstrate the consumer behavior to the business manager. For instance, with an app, you can trace the entire path traversed by the user within the virtual store, and understand the way he navigates and the products for which he was most interested.

With this understanding, it is much easier to create targeted offerings, make better-targeted marketing actions and reach the target audience in a more assertive way.

3 – To be present at any time and place

More than having a good website and a virtual store, an app takes your brand to where your customer or potential customer is – in the palm. This is a competitive advantage, especially when we remember that the product we need in only a click away.

4 – Creating loyalty programs

The old loyalty card is now virtual and nothing is better than offering it in the form of an application for the client operating system (Android, iOS, or web interface). For customers who download the app, you can create exclusive offers such as shopping on scores or offer special awards.

What differentiates an application of a conventional loyalty card is the ability to collect and analyze data. After that, transforming them into useful information for your business strategy.

The world is becoming, increasingly, Mobile First. It means that mobile technology is starring in the development and preferences of people watching public behavior. The public now wants to be able to access information, interact with brands and buy the product in an easy way and at any time.

Offering applications that provide this interaction is more than being aligned with the movement of the market. It is to show the customer that you are up to date and want to offer the best service. If you want consultancy for your mobile app!