The Benefits of Cross-Platform App Development

 

Some applications are exclusive to iOS, while others are only available on Android. On the other hand, some apps support both iOS and Android. But why does this happen? Have you ever given it a thought?

This is possible because of cross-platform app development. Using cross-platform development technologies you can create applications that can be used on different operating systems smoothly. In this article, we will explore the cross-platform development approach and the benefits of cross-platform app development for a better experience for both developers and users. 

Begin Your Child's Coding Adventure Now!

What is Cross-platform App Development?

Cross-platform development refers to the approach of creating applications that are compatible with different operating systems. In simple words, apps that are developed using a cross-platform approach can be used by both iOS users and Android users. Using cross-platform development, developers can deliver to broader users with a single code system. 

Advantages of Cross-platform Development

The ability to be compatible with multiple operating systems makes cross-platform development beneficial for developers in multiple ways. Following are some advantages of cross-platform development over native development. 

Cost-effective and Time-saving

Native app development requires working on different code systems for different operating systems. Cross-platform development reduces the cost of development by providing code reusability and the ability to build apps for multiple platforms with a single code system. Cross-platform application development is also less time-consuming than the native app development process. 

Wider reach

Cross-platform application development allows a wider reach because of the adaptability to multiple operating systems. Using cross-platforms for application development you can create apps that aim to serve a broad range of users with different operating systems. 

Maintenance 

Maintenance for cross-platform applications is also comparatively easier than native development. As cross-platform allows a single code base, it is easier for developers to manage updates and maintenance. Developers can make changes in only one single code system instead of changing in different code systems for different operating systems.  

Scalable 

Cross-platform applications are more scalable and efficient. Due to adaptability to multiple operating systems, there is less chance of business loss for cross-platform applications in case of any change in operating systems. Apps developed with a cross-platform approach can adapt to new changes in operating systems without major code changes from scratch. 

What Are Some Top Frameworks for Cross-Platform App Development?

There are several frameworks provided by different programming languages used for cross-platform application development. Here are some of the top frameworks commonly used for developing cross-platform applications. 

Flutter 

Flutter is a popular framework of the programming language Dart used for building cross-platform applications and websites. Developed by Google, Flutter is one of the most scalable frameworks for application development. Some common examples of applications that are built using Flutter are Gpay, Alibaba, etc. 

React Native

React Native, based on the most common programming language Javascript is among the top choices for building cross-platform applications. Using React Native you can build apps that are supported by multiple platforms like iOS, Android, macOS, windows, etc. Some examples of applications made using React Native are Facebook, Microsoft Office, Skype, etc. 

Ionic

Iconic is another famous framework that makes cross-platform development easy. Using Iconic, developers can build amazing cross-platform applications by implementing web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Examples of applications developed using Ionic are Justwatch, MarketWatch, etc. 

Wrapping up, cross-platform development allows the creation of applications in minimal time with fewer resources and codes that are suitable for more than one operating system. If you are excited to learn more about such coding insights, visit the 98thPercentile. 

Don’t forget to book your free 2-week trial class for 98thPercentile’s coding courses for grades 1 to 8. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. Native or cross-platform development which is better?

A: Both Native and cross-platform development have their pros and cons. Cross-platform development is adaptable to more than one operating system with a single code system.  However, native applications provide comparatively a better UX. 

Q2. What is the main goal of cross-platform development?

A: The primary goal of cross-platform development is to make applications adaptable to different operating systems. 

Q3. What is the advantage of cross-platform development?

A: Cross-platform development allows code reusability to create apps with fewer resources and in less time. 

Q4. What are the limitations of cross-platform development?

A: Cross-platform applications may have performance limitations as compared to native applications. 

Q5. What frameworks are used in cross-platform development?

A: Frameworks like Flutter, react native, etc are the most common frameworks used for cross-platform development. 

Book Free Coding Trial Classes Now!

Related Articles

1. Creating Simple JavaScript Games

2. Algorithm Explanation and Breaking Down for Better Understanding

3. Common Mobile App Development Challenges

4. How to Design User-Friendly Apps?