What Is The Best Platform For Mobile App Development?

Deciding on the right platform for your mobile app can feel like standing at a crossroads with several promising paths ahead. As app development specialists who've guided countless projects since 2015, we understand this pivotal decision can seem overwhelming at first.

The platform you choose isn't just a technical decision - it's the foundation that will shape your entire user experience and business strategy

Today's mobile landscape primarily revolves around two giants: iOS and Android. Together, they command nearly 99% of the global mobile operating system market share. Whilst responsive websites can offer app-like experiences through browsers, they lack crucial features like app store presence, push notifications, and seamless device integration that genuine mobile apps provide.

Whether you're a startup founder with a groundbreaking idea or an established business looking to expand your digital presence, understanding platform differences is crucial. Each choice comes with its own set of advantages, development approaches, and market opportunities - rather like choosing between a Swiss Army knife and a specialised tool for a specific job.

Throughout this guide, we'll examine each platform option in detail, helping you understand the technical considerations, development costs, and market implications. We'll share insights gained from developing hundreds of apps across different platforms, whilst keeping the discussion straightforward and jargon-free.

Our aim isn't to push you toward any particular platform, but rather to arm you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision that aligns perfectly with your unique requirements and objectives.

Understanding Mobile App Platforms

When you're embarking on your mobile app journey, choosing the right platform feels a bit like picking a holiday destination - it's exciting but can be rather overwhelming! As app development experts who've guided countless projects since 2015, we understand this challenge completely.

Let's break down the main platforms in a way that's easy to digest. Think of mobile platforms as different neighbourhoods where your app can live, each with its own character and community.

The Main Mobile Platforms

• iOS (Apple): Like a posh London borough, iOS offers a premium, controlled environment with high-spending residents
• Android (Google): Similar to a diverse, sprawling city, Android reaches a massive, varied audience worldwide
• Web-based: More like a pop-up shop - accessible anywhere but not quite the same as having a permanent home in the App Store or Play Store

While web-based platforms might seem tempting (and they're brilliant for certain projects), they can't provide the full app experience users expect in 2025. You won't find them in app stores, and they can't access all device features like push notifications or camera functions.

The reality is that iOS and Android dominate the mobile landscape, rather like Tesco and Sainsbury's in British supermarkets. Each platform has its unique characteristics, development requirements, and user expectations. Understanding these differences is crucial because they'll impact everything from your development costs to your app's success.

In the following chapters, we'll dive deeper into each platform's specifics, helping you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and target audience.

Native vs Web vs Hybrid Apps

When diving into the world of mobile app development, you'll quickly encounter three distinct approaches: native, web, and hybrid apps. Let's break these down in a way that's easy to understand – think of it like choosing between a bespoke suit, an off-the-rack outfit, or something in between.

Native Apps: The Premium Experience

Native apps are built specifically for either iOS or Android, like a tailor-made suit that fits perfectly. They offer the best performance, seamless access to device features (like your camera or GPS), and that smooth, polished feel we've all come to expect from our favourite apps. Think of apps like Instagram or Spotify – they're native apps that feel 'just right' on your device.

Web vs Hybrid: The Alternative Routes

Web apps are essentially mobile-friendly websites. While they're cost-effective and easy to maintain, they can't be downloaded from app stores and often lack that native 'feel' we're used to. It's like viewing a shop through a window rather than being inside it.

Hybrid apps try to bridge this gap, combining web technologies with native features. They're like a compromise between the two worlds – potentially faster to develop than native apps, but sometimes at the cost of performance and user experience.

Before deciding on your approach, consider this: if your app needs to access device features like the camera or needs to work offline, native development will almost always be your best choice.

At the end of the day, your choice should align with your project's goals, budget, and timeline. While native apps typically offer the best user experience, each approach has its place in the mobile development landscape of 2024.

The iOS Platform: A Deep Dive

Let's explore Apple's iOS platform - the ecosystem that powers iPhones and iPads worldwide. If you're considering iOS app development, you're looking at accessing a market known for higher user spending and strong brand loyalty. We understand that navigating Apple's ecosystem can seem daunting at first, rather like learning to drive a luxury car with all its sophisticated features!

Development Environment and Tools

iOS development primarily uses Swift or Objective-C programming languages, with Swift being Apple's modern language of choice. You'll be working with Xcode, Apple's integrated development environment (IDE), which is a bit like having a high-tech workshop with all your tools perfectly organised. Think of Swift as the digital equivalent of Lego bricks - structured, reliable, and designed to work perfectly together.

Platform Benefits and Considerations

The iOS platform offers several compelling advantages. The standardised hardware means you're developing for a limited number of devices, unlike Android's vast device ecosystem. It's rather like writing a play for a specific theatre instead of having to adapt it for venues of all shapes and sizes. iOS users also tend to update their operating systems quickly, making it easier to maintain your app.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Apple's approval process for the App Store is quite strict - think of it as a quality control checkpoint that ensures all apps meet high standards. While this might mean longer review times, it ultimately results in better quality apps and increased user trust. Additionally, you'll need a Mac computer for development, as Xcode only runs on macOS.

The Android Platform: A Close Look

When we think about Android development, we're looking at a fascinating ecosystem that powers more than 70% of mobile devices worldwide. It's rather like having a Swiss Army knife in your pocket - incredibly versatile but requiring careful handling to use effectively.

The Android Advantage

Android's open-source nature makes it brilliantly flexible for developers. If you've ever wondered why there are so many different types of Android phones - from budget-friendly options to premium devices - this is precisely why. The platform allows manufacturers to customise their offerings, much like how you might personalise your own living space.

Android's greatest strength lies in its diversity - it's not just a platform, it's a gateway to reaching users across every demographic and device type

Technical Considerations

Working with Android involves using Java or Kotlin as primary programming languages, with Android Studio as the main development environment. Think of it as having a well-equipped workshop where all your tools are precisely where you need them. However, this flexibility comes with its own challenges - particularly device fragmentation, where your app needs to work seamlessly across thousands of different screen sizes and hardware configurations.

The Google Play Store's more relaxed submission process (compared to Apple's App Store) means faster deployment and updates. However, this doesn't mean cutting corners on quality - it's rather like having a faster car; you still need to follow the rules of the road. For businesses targeting a broad, global audience or needing deeper hardware integration, Android often proves to be a compelling choice, especially in markets where Android devices dominate the landscape.

Cross-Platform Development Tools

Making Sense of Cross-Platform Options

When it comes to developing mobile apps, it's natural to feel overwhelmed by the choice between iOS and Android platforms. Think of it like choosing between a Mac and a PC - both have their merits, and wouldn't it be brilliant if you could have the best of both worlds? That's where cross-platform development tools come into play.

At Glance, we've seen how cross-platform frameworks like React Native, Flutter, and Xamarin have revolutionised the way we build apps. Imagine being able to write code once and deploy it across multiple platforms - it's a bit like writing a letter that automatically translates itself into different languages!

Popular Tools and Their Sweet Spots

React Native, created by the clever folks at Facebook, has become a favourite among developers. It lets us create truly native-feeling apps while sharing up to 80% of the code between platforms. Flutter, Google's offering, is another brilliant option that's gained tremendous popularity since its launch, particularly for apps requiring stunning visuals and smooth animations.

However, it's worth noting that cross-platform development isn't always the perfect solution. Just as a Swiss Army knife isn't always better than a dedicated tool, there are times when native development might be more appropriate. For apps requiring complex features or platform-specific functionality (like the latest AR capabilities), going native might still be your best bet.

The key is understanding your specific needs. Are you prioritising development speed and budget efficiency, or do you need platform-specific optimisation? Looking at your requirements honestly will help guide this decision, and we're always happy to help navigate these choices.

Costs and Development Time Comparison

When it comes to mobile app development costs and timelines, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. It's rather like choosing between a bespoke suit and one off the rack – the investment varies based on what you need.

Development Costs by Platform

Android development typically costs more and takes longer due to device fragmentation – there are thousands of Android devices with different screen sizes and specifications to account for. iOS development, while generally more straightforward due to fewer device variations, often requires stricter adherence to Apple's guidelines.

Responsive web solutions, whilst more affordable, don't provide the same level of user experience or functionality as native apps. Plus, they're not available in app stores, which can significantly impact discoverability and user trust.

Consider starting with one platform first (usually iOS in the UK market) to test your concept and gather user feedback before investing in multiple platforms. This approach, known as MVP (Minimum Viable Product), can save both time and money in the long run.

Remember, these figures are guidelines based on our experience developing apps since 2015. The actual cost will depend on your app's complexity, features, and specific requirements.

Choosing Based on Your Target Audience

Selecting the right platform for your mobile app isn't just about technical specifications - it's about understanding your users and meeting them where they are. Think of it like opening a shop; you wouldn't set up your boutique in Mayfair if your target customers live in Manchester!

Understanding Your Demographics

In our experience at Glance, we've noticed that iOS users typically have higher income levels and are more likely to make in-app purchases. They're particularly prevalent in Western markets like the UK, US, and Australia. If you're launching a premium lifestyle app or high-end service, iOS might be your best first step.

Android, on the other hand, dominates the global market share, especially in developing nations and across Asia. It offers incredible reach and tends to attract users who are more price-sensitive but highly engaged with their apps. If you're building a mass-market application or focusing on emerging markets, Android could be your golden ticket.

Consider Your App's Purpose

While responsive web apps might seem tempting due to their lower development costs, remember they won't be available in app stores - which is where most users expect to find their apps in 2024. It's a bit like having a brilliant restaurant that isn't listed on Google Maps; you might have the best food in town, but people need to know where to find you!

If budget allows, developing for both platforms simultaneously is often ideal. However, if you need to choose, look carefully at your user research and analytics. Where do your potential users spend their time? What devices do they use? Let these insights guide your platform decision, and you'll be setting yourself up for success.

Platform-Specific Design Guidelines

When you're building a mobile app, following platform-specific design guidelines isn't just about making things look pretty – it's about creating an experience that feels natural to your users. Think about how jarring it would feel if your iPhone suddenly started using Android's back button!

iOS Design Principles

Apple's Human Interface Guidelines (HIG) emphasise clarity, deference, and depth. iOS apps typically feature clean lines, ample white space, and subtle shadows. Navigation usually relies on a tab bar at the bottom of the screen, and iOS users expect smooth, intuitive gestures like swiping back to return to previous screens.

Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works - and how it works must feel native to the platform.

Android Material Design

Google's Material Design guidelines take a different approach, embracing bold colours, floating action buttons, and more visible navigation elements. Android users are accustomed to the prominent back button and the 'hamburger' menu for additional options. The platform also accommodates more diverse screen sizes, so responsive layouts are crucial.

While responsive web apps can mimic these design patterns, they can't fully replicate the native experience users expect. Without access to platform-specific features and being unavailable in app stores, web apps often feel like outsiders trying to fit in.

At Glance, we've found that respecting these platform differences whilst maintaining your brand identity is key. It's rather like speaking the same language but with different accents – your message stays consistent, but the delivery changes to match local expectations.

Conclusion

Choosing the right platform for your mobile app is rather like selecting the perfect house - there's no universally "best" choice, only the one that best suits your specific needs. Throughout this guide, we've explored the various options available, from native development on iOS and Android to cross-platform solutions and web applications.

We understand that making this decision can feel overwhelming. After all, it's a choice that will impact your app's future success, user experience, and development journey. Having guided countless clients through this decision over the past eight years, we've learned that the most successful approach is to carefully consider your unique circumstances rather than following trending technologies.

Remember, whilst native development typically offers the best performance and user experience, it requires more resources and specialist knowledge for each platform. Cross-platform development can be more cost-effective and faster to market, though it may involve some compromises in functionality. Web apps, whilst flexible and easily accessible, can't provide the full native experience or take advantage of platform-specific features.

The mobile app landscape continues to evolve rapidly, but the fundamental principles remain constant: understand your target audience, define your app's core functionality, and align your platform choice with your business objectives and resources. Whether you choose iOS, Android, or both, the key is to create an app that delivers genuine value to your users whilst meeting your business goals.

Whatever platform you choose, remember that success lies not just in the initial development, but in ongoing support, updates, and responsiveness to user feedback. After all, launching your app is just the beginning of your mobile journey.