Native App
What is a native app?
A native app refers to software applications specifically created to run on one operating system or platform, like iOS or Android, using programming languages native to that operating system (Swift/Objective C for iOS; Java/Kotlin on Android). They offer superior performance, seamless integration, and access to device hardware/features (camera, GPS/navigation, etc.), such as cameras/GPS and push notifications.
Advantages of native apps
Optimized performance: Native apps deliver fast and responsive experiences because they’re explicitly designed to work on one operating system. By making full use of device processing power and resources more efficiently than their web-based or cross-platform counterparts, native apps provide faster response times on mobile devices than their non-native competitors.
Seamless user experience: Since native apps adhere to each platform’s specific design guidelines, they provide users with a familiar user interface and experience, facilitating intuitive navigation and smooth interactions for better overall experiences.
Gain full access to device features: Native apps have access to all the hardware and features on a device, including its camera, microphone, GPS, and sensors, which enables developers to build applications with rich features for an engaging experience. It allows rich feature-packed applications with full access to device features for an optimal experience.
Offline functionality: Many native apps can function without an active internet connection. Key functionalities are often accessible offline, adding convenience for users.
Challenges of native apps
Rising development costs: Producing native apps on multiple platforms involves maintaining separate codebases for iOS and Android. It leads to greater development costs and additional complexity due to the need for platform-specific expertise.
Longer development time: Since native apps require individual development for each platform, development takes more time compared to cross-platform apps that use one codebase for multiple platforms.
App Store approval: Native apps submitted for publication through either Apple’s App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) require approval before publishing, which adds time and complexity to their deployment process.
When should a native app be chosen?
Native apps are ideal for companies when performance, speed, and user experience are of the utmost importance. Complex features that interact closely with hardware, like Augmented Reality and advanced graphics, often favor native development over any other option.
Furthermore, businesses looking for apps that feel natural on specific platforms such as iOS or Android usually opt for native app development over creating something in other environments.
Conclusion
Native apps provide superior user experiences and performance on any platform, making them the obvious choice for businesses that prioritize quality, speed, and device integration. Although development costs and timelines tend to increase significantly with native app development projects, their benefits outweigh these considerations, particularly among brands looking to deliver premium mobile experiences to users.
Native apps are those apps that are pre-installed on a user’s smartphone. A native app is coded with a programming language native to the mobile device and the app can also be accessed without an internet connection.