Any average app user (which is almost everyone in the world) could probably tell you that iOS apps are for Apple and Android apps are, well, for Android. They’ll also tell you another commonly known difference: as a user you download them from different types of stores.
But, a person with a thrust for a deeper understanding of technology might find themselves wondering: what’s the difference between iOS and Android app development? And that’s exactly what you’re going to find out if you keep reading this article.
Programming Language
One of the most fundamental differences between iOS and Android app development is the programming language used.
Developers working in iOS Application Development Services are using a programming language unique to Apple. It’s called Swift and it’s known for being pretty easy to learn. This is why many beginner app developers will opt for iOS as they start learning.
Programming Languages used by Android devices, on the other hand, are a bit more complicated. The first choice is usually Java, and there’s also Kotlin.
There’s always the option to build an app that can be used on both operating systems. In this case, you choose from the following programming languages: Flutter, React Native, or Unity.
Development Environment
The development environment is another big difference between iOS and Android app development.
Those working on Android apps use AndoirdStudio, the toolkit developers are provided with by Google. It’s known for high readability, a range of debugging features, and cross-platform support.
Those who work on iOS apps, get to do it in a development environment called Apple’s XCode. Its positive side is that it’s very easy to use as well as debugging features.
In case you’re wondering which one is better, the answer to this question depends on a lot of features and personal preferences of a developer.
Development complexity
Which development environment is better might depend solely on personal preferences. But when it comes to development complexity, Apple is the absolute winner.
This is because of the range of devices available with each operating system. When you develop an iOS app, you’re making it for Apple devices whose range is limited. This means that there aren’t too many screen dimensions or graphics to test your app on, making your app development job much easier.
On the other hand, Androids come in many shapes, forms, and graphics. This is why the developer has to undergo the app to a plethora of tests to make sure the final result work for all Android devices. This is of course, very time-consuming.
Budget for development
Money makes the world go around, they say, and the world of iOS and Android app development is no exception. That’s why the money you need to spend on development is another important difference between these two.
But this is another characteristic for which is pretty easy to pick the winner. Apple wins again because it’s simply – cheaper. The time required for testing on different Android devices we mentioned before plus slightly more difficult programming languages means that Android apps will take a bigger portion of your budget.
Publishing the app
As we said, most app users will be able to mention that a difference between iOS and Android apps is where you get them. iOS apps are downloaded from Apple App Store and you should go to Google Play Store if you need an Android app.
For developers, the crucial part here is how easy is to publish your app in their stores. In the case of iOS apps, there’s a long waiting period because Apple has very strict terms and conditions.
It will take time for them to check your app before publishing because they want to make sure it functions perfectly and there are no bugs present. It might be time-consuming but ultimately, it means you can be certain once published your product is in pristine condition for the users.
Publishing to Google Play Store on the other hand is much faster. But it also means some bugs might be overlooked.
To conclude
iOS and Android app development is different in many ways. The programming languages differ as well as the development environment and complexity. Big differences are also visible in the necessary budget for app development as well as in these apps that are eventually published.
