15 min ReadNative app development is a great way to create mobile apps. It means building an app specifically for one platform, like iOS or Android, so it works perfectly on that system. If you’re not sure whether to choose iOS or Android, check out our article, “Which Platform to Choose for Your App: Android or iOS?” where we give helpful tips to guide you.
We’ll explain what native app development is, its pros and cons, and why it might be the right choice for your business.
By the end, you’ll know what to expect when working with a native app development company like ours and how we can help you build a top-quality app that meets your needs.
What is Native Mobile App Development?
Native app development means creating a mobile app specifically for one operating system, like iOS or Android. These apps use programming languages designed for that platform, such as Swift for iOS or Kotlin for Android, which makes them highly optimized for their respective systems. However, the code used to build an app for one platform can’t be reused for another.
Apple and Google offer Software Development Kits (SDKs) to help create and test apps. These kits provide critical functionalities of the cellular operating system, such as sensors, cameras, and push notification capabilities, and ensure app functionality without extra hacks. With the help of these tools and languages, application developers can build applications that integrate with the operating system features and hardware.
Which Platform Should You Choose for Native App Development?
When creating native apps, the two most important platforms are iOS and Android, which will most likely be your key targets. These are currently the two most used platforms for native mobile app development, and while they are both excellent, there are many tools and options you will need to know about.
To develop an iOS Native app, you require a MAC and code in Swift or Objective-C. Developers employ Android Studio and languages like Java or Kotlin to develop a native Android app. Native apps are generally considered to enhance performance compared to other apps.
Native apps can run up to 50% faster than hybrid apps because they’re optimized for a specific platform.
A big difference is that iOS is more closed off and controlled, while Android allows for more customization and flexibility. IOS apps can be downloaded from the Apple Store, while Android-based apps are from the Google Play Store. However, Google Play has a broader audience since the result reveals that iOS users spend almost twice the amount on apps than Android users.
Advantages of Native App Development
Native app development involves building apps using platform-specific programming languages and tools for a single platform. Here are some detailed benefits of choosing this approach:
1. Optimal Performance
Native apps are developed for specific platforms that weaponize native languages: Swift or Objective-C for iOS, Java or Kotlin for Android. This enables them to operate optimally and optimize the use of the device’s hardware as desired. For instance, native apps can take full advantage of graphics processing units. Real-time implementation leads to faster loads and better-looking animations.
A study by Statista states that native apps are 20 to 30% faster than hybrid apps, which makes them suitable for heavy applications such as games and augmented reality experiences.
2. Access to Device Features
One of the biggest strengths of native mobile app development is the language’s inherent compatibility with available device options, such as the camera, GPS, and accelerometer. This is very important for applications that depend on these functionalities, such as fitness-tracking applications that track the number of steps made or navigation applications that offer directions in real-time.
For example, in a photo editing app, you can use the device’s camera right in the app, i.e., users can take clear photos.
When developing the next version of your app, always consider how to incorporate these features into the design; doing so can help differentiate your product from similar apps.
3. Enhanced User Experience
Native applications are better for users since they adhere to the platform’s user interface conventions. This means that the users are likely to follow the same familiar interaction pattern with the app, thus increasing their interaction levels.
One study found that customers are ten times more likely to return to an app offering an outstanding user experience. With a native app, users can work with transitions, gestures, and layouts in a very natural way—a feature that is very important from the perspective of users’ engagement.
Start with user testing at the initial stage of the native mobile app development life cycle to ensure information about the user interface/usability is obtained and fixed if the software is to be launched in the market.
4. Better Security
Security is a growing concern for app users. Native apps benefit from the robust security frameworks provided by the operating systems. They can implement advanced security protocols, such as biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition), which secures user data and enhances trust.
A survey by Cybersecurity Insiders found that 80% of users are more likely to use apps that prioritize their security and privacy.
Incorporate security features like encryption and regular updates to protect user data and maintain their trust in your app.
5. Offline Functionality
Native apps can offer offline functionality, allowing users to access core features without an internet connection. This is particularly valuable for users in areas with unstable connectivity.
For example, a note-taking app can allow users to create and edit notes offline, syncing the data once they regain connectivity. This capability enhances user experience and increases app usability in diverse environments.
6. Higher App Store Visibility
Native apps often rank higher in app store searches due to their superior performance and adherence to platform standards. This increased visibility can lead to more downloads and a more extensive user base.
You can consider Android app development to target a large audience. If you want to go with iOS, it is suggested that you approach an iOS app development agency that works with seasoned iOS developers and can better understand your project requirements.
Examples of Popular Native Mobile Apps
Here are a few examples of popular native mobile apps. These apps fall into diverse domains, including social media and communication, entertainment, business, productivity, and navigation.
1. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a free messaging app that allows users to send text and voice messages, photos and documents, videos, and even make calls. The platform uses end-to-end encryption to provide users with a fully private option.
WhatsApp was developed to check status updates before becoming a messaging application.
- Owner: Meta (formerly Facebook)
- Establishment Date: 2009
WhatsApp had over 2.7 billion monthly active users in 2024.
2. Spotify
Spotify is an online music streaming site offering over 50 million songs, podcasts, and the best playlists.
Some of the best-known ones include Spotify’s “Discover Weekly” service, which helps over 40 million users find new music based on their preferences.
- Owner: Spotify AB (founded by Daniel Ek and Martin Lorentzon)
- Establishment Date: 2006
Spotify had 551 million active users as of mid-2024.
3. Pokemon GO
Pokémon GO is an AR game that lets players capture, hatch, and fight Pokémon creatures in a real-life environment.
Till now, it has been played 8.7 billion kilometers in the first two years.
- Owner: Niantic, Inc.
- Establishment Date: 2016
As of 2023, Pokémon GO had generated $6 billion in lifetime revenue.
4. Waze
Waze is an application that provides GPS navigation, real-time traffic information, alternate routes, and information regarding hazardous areas on the road, contributed by Waze users.
Waze added “crowdsourced traffic data,” meaning real-time road information could be submitted without leaving the app.
- Owner: Google
- Establishment Date: 2008
Waze had over 140 million monthly active users globally by 2022.
5. Tesla
Tesla’s native app allows owners to control and monitor their vehicles, including features like remote start, charging status, climate control, and security alerts.
The Tesla app lets users access their vehicle with no physical key, using only their smartphone as a “key fob.”
- Owner: Tesla, Inc. (Elon Musk, CEO)
- Establishment Date: 2010 (Tesla app launched in 2015)
Tesla delivered 1.31 million electric vehicles in 2022.
6. Twitter (now X)
Twitter is a social media platform that sends and receives messages of less than 280 characters called tweets. It acts as an organization and platform for sharing current events, beliefs, and activities.
Twitter was renamed “X” after Elon Musk bought the company because of the diversification of services the company now offers beyond microblogging.
- Owner: X Corp. (Elon Musk)
- Establishment Date: 2006
As of 2023, Twitter had around 368 million monthly active users.
7. Duolingo
Duolingo is a mobile application that helps people learn languages. It is accompanied by games and quizzes that make learning enjoyable, convenient, and fast.
Duolingo offers more than 40 natural languages and fictional or, at least, invented languages, such as Klingon and High Valyrian.
- Owner: Duolingo, Inc. (founded by Luis von Ahn and Severin Hacker)
- Establishment Date: 2011
Duolingo had over 74 million monthly active users in 2023.
8. Microsoft Office
Microsoft Office is a productivity suite with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint apps. It enables users to create, edit, and share documents across devices.
Microsoft Office is available in over 100 languages, making it one of the most widely used productivity tools globally.
- Owner: Microsoft Corporation
- Establishment Date: 1990 (Microsoft Office mobile app launched in 2014)
Microsoft Office 365 had over 345 million paid users in 2023.
Best Native App Development Tools & Technologies
Choosing the right tools is crucial for efficient native app development. Below are some of the best tools available for iOS and native Android app development.
For native iOS app development
Xcode: Apple integrates a development environment for developing iPhone and iPad applications. It has a complete range of instruments, including a tester based on the OpenLB simulator and an effective debugger.
Swift is the programming language used to create iOS applications. It is known for its fused modern syntax and optimized performance.
For native Android app development
- Android Studio: Android Studio was originally developed by Google to develop Android applications and Play Store APK for Android mobile devices. It contains the IDE for developing Android applications, a source code editor, an emulator for running an application in an emulator, and a Debugger.
- Kotlin: The preferred programming language for native Android app development, known for its expressive syntax and reduced boilerplate code.
Best Ways to Hire Native Mobile Developers
Hiring the right native mobile developers for your application is critical to its success. Having been in the native mobile app development industry for years, I have discovered that choosing the correct developer is more than just a skill. Here are my tips to help you navigate the hiring process effectively and set your app up for success.
1. Clearly Define Your App’s Requirements
One of the worst things businesses can do is enter the hiring process without knowing what is necessary. Defining the desirable list of technical skills and experience before beginning recruitment. Discuss questions like –
- Are you creating an iOS or a mobile application for the Android operating system?
- Do you require an expert in app performance or someone skilled in using intricate APIs?
2. Seek Platform-Specific Expertise
A native mobile developer should have specialized knowledge of the platform’s programming languages and frameworks. If you are going with iOS Native app development, the developer you choose should know Swift well. They should also be proficient in Android programming with Kotlin.
Tip: See how well they know the respective platform SDKs and APIs. Knowledge of these tools allows you to utilize all the potential that the operating system offers in terms of performance and usability to your application.
Native apps with platform-specific languages execute the app 20% faster than hybrid apps; thus, expertise in app languages is essential.
3. Review Their Portfolio with a Critical Eye
A well-curated portfolio is a goldmine for evaluating a developer’s experience. Examine aspects like functionality, responsiveness, and overall user experience beyond just the appearance of the apps. Apps that perform seamlessly and offer an intuitive design show that the developer can balance technical performance with user needs.
Tip: Always ask for live app links in addition to screenshots. It’s essential to see how the app performs in real-time, not just how it looks in a static image.
70% of hiring managers say a developer’s portfolio is critical in their decision-making process.
4. Evaluate Problem-Solving Skills
Developing native apps often comes with its fair share of technical hurdles. From debugging to performance bottlenecks, you need a developer who can think on their feet and solve problems creatively.
Tip: In interviews, always allow the developer to explain the problematic project they have handled. How did they address those problems? Did they refactor code or include new APIs to increase a system’s performance? This will help you understand their propensity to approach problems that they are facing.
5. Start with a Small Test Project
In most cases, it would be prudent to be able to work with the developer on a small project before committing to a full-time hire or long-term contract. This also lets you see how they communicate and whether they are dependable in delivering work.
Tip: Provide them with a task centered on the work they will do on your app. It could be as straightforward as creating a login for a user or as small as rectifying a defect. The purpose is to determine how effectively they will be able to demonstrate the actual implementation.
Bonus Tip: Communication is critical. A good developer should always be able to explain themself and be ready to work well with your team. If they fail in this or have problems, you may look for a better candidate for the job.
Conclusion
Native apps benefit your business by providing high performance, security, and a good experience. Yes, it might take longer and be a bit more expensive to do this, but let me tell you, it’s worth every penny and every hour to have an app that will be unique and provide real value to your customers. Developing a native app means thinking through the process and hiring professional developers.
That’s where we come in! Regarding native app development, our professional employees know how to bring your visions to life and create the most qualitative application to help achieve the desired objectives.
Let’s make it happen! If you’re ready for a powerful native app, call us today. We are always here to assist you through the process.
Remember: Native apps deliver better performance than hybrid apps, but their development demands proper strategizing and selecting resources and professionals.
