Android or iOS: For Which Mobile Platform Should You Build Your Next App?

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Android or iOS: For Which Mobile Platform Should You Build Your Next App?

When you think of building an app, the platform on which it will be released, whether on Android or iOS, is a crucial decision. Android is an open-source platform that offers more flexibility and customisation options. On the other hand, iOS is a closed-source platform that provides more stability and security. Both have their pros and cons that you should deal with.

Android or iOS is a challenging decision, and you must consider a variety of factors, including the target audience, timeline, desired features, budget, and revenue goal. In addition, if you aim to launch your app on both platforms in the future, building a native app for these platforms simultaneously can be risky and expensive. Ultimately, the decision between the two platforms depends on the app’s specific needs.

Factors You Should Consider Before Making Your Decision

It is critical to understand how some factors affect your decision-making if you are thinking of developing an app for either Android, iOS, or both. The following are some of the significant considerations you should take into account:

  • Global Market Share
  • Target Audience
  • Revenue
  • Desired Features
  • Development Expenses
  • App Store Submission

1. Global Market Share

A well-liked mobile platform or operating system in your important markets is always preferable. Regarding global market share, Android devices take the lead over iOS devices. According to early 2024 statistics, Android accounted for 70.69% of the worldwide market share. iPhones hold a market share of 60.77% in the US. 

Currently, over 1 billion iPhones and 3 billion Android devices are in use. If you want your app to have a greater worldwide reach or target a broad global audience, stick with Android, since 85% of the world’s population uses Android devices. So, consider the global market share when considering what to choose.

2. Target Audience

The target audience for which your app is intended is essential when selecting a mobile platform. As said earlier, if your application is being developed for a global audience, you should do it on the Android operating system. Users in developing countries and the lower and middle classes are more likely to own Android devices than iOS devices, which are popular with those with higher incomes and educational backgrounds.

Men prefer iOS over women, and although people of all ages use Android, people over 65 are more likely to own an iPhone. Therefore, considering this when developing an app could help you decide which platform to use if you focus on a specific country, region, or gender. Even though these distinctions might not make or break your app, it is wise to consider them.

3. Revenue

As mentioned in the factor of the target audience, iOS apps are always targeted for a premium marketplace. Therefore, users will always go for better service tools, no matter how costly. Buying apps and making in-app purchases are more common among iOS device users than Android users. As a result, monetization is higher, thereby increasing revenue. 

So, if you want to generate more revenue using your next app, choosing the iOS mobile platform is better. It has a considerable disadvantage regarding the installed base of active users globally. Therefore, if making money is your top priority and expanding your audience is your secondary concern, choose iOS. Otherwise, it is better to stick with Android.

4. Desired Features

The features that you want in your application are critical factors to consider. For example, if you want to create a game, you would be better off developing an Android app. On the other hand, if you want to build a business app, iOS is the better choice. It also provides better security, but Android is more flexible regarding customisation. 

Both operating systems have similar features and capabilities, so you should carefully consider what you want in your application before deciding which one to use. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the features you want in your application.

5. Development Expenses

While iOS apps are written in Swift, Apple’s official programming language, Android apps are written in Java. The developers have to write more code for Android apps than iOS apps.  

Android is an open-source platform, unlike iOS, which has a closed ecosystem and only requires app development for a few standardised devices and operating systems. 

Therefore, developing a mobile app for iOS would take less time than developing one for Android. It would cost more to dedicate more hours to the creation of mobile apps. So, if you are concerned about the development expenses, choose wisely.

6. App Store Submission

Android is a better option because it offers more flexibility and a simpler submission process if you want your app to launch as soon as possible. The Google Play Store will automatically test your Android app using automated testing methods prior to it going live. But there are chances of missing out on some minor issues, if there are any. 

On the other hand, iOS has stricter guidelines for quality control before submission to the Apple Play Store. It employs manual quality testing, where actual users conduct in-depth app reviews. It may take 2 to 3 days for the apps to go live and the number of apps rejected for submission is lower compared to Android. So, consider which platform aligns better with your app’s features and functionalities before developing one.

So, what do you think? There is much to consider when choosing the right mobile platform for building your app. If you choose one over the other, make sure the decision is based on your goals and requirements. Consider all the factors mentioned above, such as your target audience, the features you want to include in the app, your budget, and many others. Are you still in doubt? Then, contact an experienced mobile app development partner to gain more clarity and insight.

Interesting Links:

Comparing Android vs. iOS Development

Difference Between iOS and Android App Development

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