Android and iOS dominate the mobile app sphere, leaving little room for competitors. Almost every phone sold in the US runs on one of the two operating systems. With such a strong market presence, Android and iOS have established a loyal user base. App developers usually choose to specialize in either Android or iOS development.
With so many differences between the two operating systems,
Which One To Choose as a Developer: iOS or Android?
There is no one right answer to the question of which operating system to choose as a developer. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and whether you should choose iOS or Android ultimately depends on the specific goals and target user base of your future app.
By closely examining the main differences between the two, developers can make a more informed decision. We have compiled a list of some key factors to consider when choosing the system you want to develop for. Read further if you want to gain a better understanding of the iOS vs Android development subject.
Advantages and Disadvantages of iOS Development
There are several significant benefits of developing for iOS. Let’s take a look at some of them.
- Security and privacy: iOS is well-known for its strong security measures, like end-to-end encryption and a rigorous app approval process, which help keep user data secure. This is especially crucial for apps that deal with sensitive information or financial transactions.
- Loyal User Base: Apple users are known for their loyalty, leading to higher user engagement and retention rates. They are wealthier and used to paying for polished apps, making them more likely to spend money on in-app purchases or subscriptions. Studies also show that iOS developers are paid slightly more than Android developers, and that is not without a reason.
- Easier Testing and Debugging: Xcode, Apple’s integrated development environment, is a one-stop shop for iOS developers. It provides a comprehensive set of tools for testing and debugging, making the development process much more efficient.
- Faster App Approval Process: Compared to other platforms, the App Store review process is quite fast. This enables iOS developers to deploy updates and new apps more quickly, allowing them to stay ahead of the competition and meet user demands in a timely manner. On average, half of the apps get approved within 24 hours.
Disadvantages of iOS Development
Of course, iOS is not without its limitations. There are several drawbacks that can influence your decision as a developer to choose Android instead:
- Narrower Market Share: Android has a much larger market share globally compared to iOS. This means that by choosing iOS, developers are potentially limiting themselves to a smaller user base.
- Tighter Control: Apple’s strict guidelines can limit certain functionalities or customization options. For example, apps should only use public APIs and can not access certain system files or settings. This can limit the creativity of developers who want to explore more advanced features or integrate with other applications.
- Closed Ecosystem: Developing for iOS means being tied to Apple’s ecosystem, which largely limits integration with other platforms or devices. Apple apps cannot be easily used on non-Apple devices, limiting their reach and potential user base, in turn reducing the possible revenue.
- Costly Development Process: Unfortunately, Apple is not known for affordability, and developing for iOS can be more expensive than Android, due to the need for specific, iOS-dedicated hardware and software. This can be a challenge for smaller developers working on a limited budget.
Whether you think iOS will work for you and your app concept, it might be wise to research Android, too, even for the sake of comparison.
Android App Development: Pros and Cons
To fully understand the potential of Android app development, it is important to consider both the pros and cons.
Advantages of Android Development:
- Wider User Base: This is probably the first benefit of choosing Android that comes to mind. With Android apps making up the biggest portion of the global app market, developing for Android grants you access to a vast user base worldwide. Android devices also come in a variety of prices, making them accessible to more users, including those who cannot afford high-end smartphones.
- Open-Source Platform: The open-source nature of Android gives developers the freedom to customize and modify the operating system according to their needs. The community of Android developers is also more collaborative and open, allowing for the sharing of knowledge and resources.
- Integration with Google Services: Highly beneficial to any app developer, Android offers seamless integration with a wide range of Google services, from Maps to Gmail and Google Drive. This integration allows app developers to leverage the power of these popular services to enhance the functionality of their apps. Additionally, the Google Play Store is a fantastic platform to distribute and monetize your Android apps.
Disadvantages of Android Development
- Device Fragmentation: One of the challenges developers face with Android is the fragmentation of the operating system across different devices. With so many Android device manufacturers and system versions on the market, ensuring compatibility and a consistent user experience can be quite difficult compared to iOS.
- High Competition: The ease of developing and publishing apps on the Google Play Store has led to a high level of competition among Android developers. With dozens of thousands of apps available for download, it can be challenging for new developers to create something that will really stand out and gain attention from users. Additionally, the high competition also puts pressure on developers to constantly update and improve their apps in order to stay competitive in the market.
- Lower Revenue: Android users do not spend as much money on apps compared to iOS users. This can make it more challenging for Android developers to generate revenue from their apps, as people will often look for a free alternative. It can be difficult to monetize an Android app, so many developers go for additional in-app advertisements or optional purchases to generate more income.
As you can see, Android is not the be-all and end-all for app developers either.
Android or iOS? Making Your Choice
The iOS vs Android development question is not easy to answer. Anyone working in custom mobile app development services and considering expanding their reach should consider targeting both platforms to maximize their revenue potential. It is not always possible, though, so it is important for developers to carefully evaluate their target audience and market demand before deciding which platform to prioritize.
Whether you plan to work on a construction management mobile app, or a mobile game, the eventual success of your app depends on its ability to meet the requirements of its target users, regardless of the operating system it is developed for.