Best Hybrid Mobile App Development Framework Mobile apps can be a significant step forward for an eCommerce business, but only if you implement your idea wisely. While the hybrid app development technology today has enabled us to get into all kinds of mobile operating systems like iOS and Android with just one app, it can still be challenging for businesses to decide which framework to use. It might look simple at the first glance but requires comprehensive business & technical analysis for decision making. This is because the decision of technology is the determining factor of not only the budget & app development process but your product/service as well.
You need to take into consideration things like the composition of your development team, project & product management, updates frequency & the features required for users. All these and many more come together while making the final decision; you cannot make it on the basis of cost if it results in compromising efficiency. In this blog post, we’re going to talk all about Hybrid app development to help you understand the technology & identify the best framework for your business.
What Is A Hybrid App?
Hybrid apps are developed using HTML5, JavaScript, and CSS. These are widely gaining popularity as businesses can use a single Hybrid app code to run their app on different operating systems yet deliver a native-like experience to users. Native apps can otherwise be expensive, as they are exclusively built for specific operating systems; this means that an iOS native application cannot run on Android. While hybrid apps are compatible with multiple applications, they have the ability to deliver a native app experience in terms of the UI/UX, push notifications, etc. Below are some benefits of the Hybrid App:
It promotes the faster development of apps.
It is much easier to maintain.
It supports a cross-platform user interface (UI).
It integrates with the user’s device file system.
It allows you to develop an efficient app and the maintenance too is less expensive.
A single code can be used for multiple platforms. You do not require hiring platform-specific developers for iOS or Android.
Hybrid has proven to be beneficial for many organizations. But with the evolving technology, it has become difficult to choose the right framework for businesses. Here are some of the most popular hybrid frameworks.
Flutter
Flutter is an open-source hybrid mobile app UI development toolkit introduced by Google. It simplifies the work of developers in creating easy-to-navigate user-friendly apps supported by great aesthetics. Some of the biggest brands worldwide are benefitting from this framework. The two main components of Flutter are:
Its Software Development Kit (SDK) comprises ready-made testing APIs and widgets essential for mobile app development.
A comprehensive UI library for sidebars, buttons & other UI elements that are reusable.
Below are the benefits of flutter technology:
It makes the development process easy & fast.
It's hot reload process allows developers to see real-time changes in the app.
It allows dynamic code writing.
It provides pre-designed widgets and supports a smooth user interface that is free from orthodox design elements.
It is compatible with Fuchsia.
React Native
React Native is another open-source mobile app development platform. It was introduced by Facebook and supports both native and cross-platform app. Other than iOS & Android, it is also compatible with platforms like Microsoft Universal Window Platform, Apple, tvOS, etc. Below are some of the benefits of React Native framework:
Since it is compatible with multiple platforms, the same code can be reused, which substantially saves cost.
It is easier to use because of the Node Packet Manager (NPM).
It has native code rendering and is supported by NodeJS.
Developers can find thousands of plugins to expand their compatibility with different hardware components.
It easily identifies bugs that aid developers to ensure the smooth running of the application in the future.
It provides a unique feature of dual screen live to reload. This allows the developer to use one screen for preview and the other for making modifications. The feature saves time & helps to achieve accuracy.
All the attributes result in saving time for developers and getting fast results.
Xamarin
A solution by the world’s biggest software company, Microsoft, Xamarin is a very popular and unique framework. It is great for both big & small companies, especially startups as it allows the developers to create a balance between budget and creativity. The framework consists of C++, Objective-C, and Java libraries. Below are the key benefits of the Xamarin framework:
It allows businesses to create apps with a native-like UI.
Xamarin apps support plugins that allow them to easily connect with different hardware without affecting functionalities or performance.
It provides an end-to-end ecosystem to developers with Xamarin Test Cloud, Xamarin SDKs, Xamarin Studio, and Xamarin Insights.
It provides more learning opportunities with a huge community where the developers can find information on everything.
Performance is key to online platforms and with Xamarin, you can stay assured as it eliminates app instability.
It allows smooth & convenient API integration and is also known for super-fast GUI prototyping.
It promotes easy code sharing and requires less maintenance.
Onsen UI
The fastest way of creating a hybrid mobile application, Onsen UI uses HTML5, JavaScript & CSS. It is easier to learn as compared to the other frameworks and allows customization for building complex applications with advanced functionalities & features. It pairs well with Monaca that is known for simplifying work by establishing a powerful command line. Below are the key benefits of Onsen UI:
It is the most convenient way to develop an HTML5-based mobile app.
It furnishes the app with a native look & feels and offers ready-to-use components.
It is great for performance optimizations.
It is easy for developers to learn & master.
Conclusion
Apart from the mentioned above, there are many more frameworks for hybrid app development like Ionic, Sencha Touch, Appcelerator Titanium & the list goes on. That said, in this blog, we’ve covered the most popular ones that have empowered many global businesses like eBay, Instagram, Airbnb, etc., and are suitable for small & medium size organizations, too. While each of them brings along unique benefits, the choice of framework depends upon your requirements & industry. Hope this read was helpful; stay tuned for more such insightful blogs to improve your digital presence & create an impact.
