Will it be native, hybrid, maybe mobile web? You have decided that you need to develop a mobile app and it was a surprise to learn that there are different ways to write an app for an Android, iOS device or any other mobile platforms.
In order to create an app for a mobile device you have two choices – or three if you count in the possibility of developing a mobile web site. So, let’s discuss a little bit these options. We must say from the very start that our goal in this article is only to help you gain general understanding on the subject, basic knowledge.
However, if you need to decide quickly which approach is better suited for your business objectives, you can tell us your thoughts here, we always answer back in a straight to the point manner and shortest time.
And now, let’s see what you need to know in order to start solving this app development dilemma.
Native apps versus hybrid apps
Here are a few basic fundamentals on the differences between native, hybrid and mobile web, some definitions – if you like. Remember, we’re covering some basics for those considering developing a mobile app but immediately confronted with the obscurity of terminology.
Native apps – it means you’ll write the app in the native language/platform for the device; it’s an app developed exclusively for a specific mobile platform, leveraging all its capabilities. It’s the most basic way to build an app, writing it for a specific kind of device. A native app is basically an ideal app.
Hybrid apps – it means you’ll develop basically a web app, but hosted inside a native container; it is used like any native app, but it’s written in HTML, JavaScript and CSS. A hybrid app is an attractive alternative to a native one, as there will be no worries about maintaining distinctive apps for various mobile platforms.
Mobile web – what you’ve got is basically a web app, hosted on the web; it will be accessed by the device’s browser. It’s a special version of the website, resized to fit a mobile device screen.
Let’s shortly discuss the pros and cons of developing both a native and a hybrid app – the main two options on the table.
Native mobile apps advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
high performance, it delivers the best user experience
it can be easily discovered in the app stores
it offers full access to the mobile platform
Disadvantages
you need different knowledge for each target platform
these apps are usually the most expensive to develop, as you need to hire talent experienced in each platform
you cannot re-use code between platforms
Hybrid mobile apps advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
it’s easy to develop, you won’t have a hard time finding an app developer
code base is re-usable between mobile platforms
overall lower budget costs
Disadvantages
native mobile apps will always provide a better user experience; hybrid just doesn’t look or feel as smooth and natural
hybrid mobile apps need distinct web view implementations per platform
you’ll probably spend way too much time fixing it
Some final remarks
We perfectly understand, all this information and it can still appear to be a really confusing subject. We think the discussion doesn’t lead to a winner and a loser, as any of these approaches can be suitable, according to every business particularities.
However, all these pieces of information can be useful while discussing options with your work team. And if you think our opinion – or better called expertize – would be of any help (hey, we clearly think it would), leave us a message here ;).
