Mobile App Development: An essential guide for business executives

Who would have thought that one day, we’d have more mobile apps than human beings?

The numbers related to mobile app downloads available on Statista are hard to digest: It says by 2026, there will be 143 billion downloads on Google and 38 billion downloads on the Apple App Store!

                                                                         ^{Image Source}

According to Grand View Research, the global mobile application market was worth nearly USD 228.98 billion in 2023 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.3% from 2024 to 2030.

The surge in mobile app popularity, driven by technological advancements such as more robust frameworks and low-code technologies, presents a golden opportunity for business executives.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of mobile app development, offering insights into app development methodologies, key trends, and development costs to help you navigate the complexities of mobile app development and ensure that your app succeeds in today’s highly dynamic marketplace.

What is mobile app development?

Mobile app development is simple. It is all the things you do to build an app that works across mobile devices. To get an app up and running, you first think of an idea that can be turned into an app. Then, stages like design, development, testing, and deployment can come.

Today, developers use different sets of programming languages, frameworks, APIs, and storage and security infrastructure to develop mobile applications.

Different development methodologies exist, such as Agile, DevOps, and DevSecOps. Numerous programming languages and frameworks, such as Python, R, JavaScript, Swift, Kotlin, React Native, Flutter, etc., can be used to plan and accelerate the app development project.

At the end of the day, the sole objective of an app development process is to ship highly intuitive and secure applications that can help accelerate customer experience while enabling the business to achieve its desired goals.

What are the different types of mobile apps?

In the last decade, there has been quite a dramatic surge in the demand for intelligent applications to drive customer engagement and business outcomes. We now have a wealth of tools and platforms to help us from the conceptualization stage to when we finally deploy the app to a chosen environment and publish it for the users.

However, no matter what app idea strikes you, it’ll likely fall into one of four categories: native apps, cross-platform apps, progressive web apps, or hybrid apps.

Native apps:

Native apps are built for specific devices and operating systems such as Android and iOS. Native app developers write these apps using the programming languages and frameworks the platform owner provides. So, the development team will use Java and Kotlin if it is an Android-based application. For iOS, the preferred languages are Objective C and Swift.

Although Native app development offers a long list of benefits, the most outstanding advantage is that native apps are compatible with the hardware and software of the devices they run on. This leads to superior app performance and customer experience.

[Explore the Top 7 Android App Development Trends in 2024 and the Top 7 iOS App Development Trends for 2024.]

Cross-platform apps:

Cross-platform mobile applications, or multi-platform applications, are software applications built to run across several operating systems using a single codebase. Mobile app development companies can use this development approach to accelerate development and time to market while also successfully lowering development costs and reaching a wider audience.

Cross-platform mobile applications can be built using diverse programming languages and frameworks like Java, JavaScript, Python, React Native, and Flutter. Read more about cross-platform apps here.

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs):

Progressive web apps (PWAs) represent another mobile development approach in which the development team combines the best of mobile and web and paves the way for a new breed of software applications.

Progressive web apps are built using web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and are designed to unleash a native-like experience. PWAs are accessible through web browsers or downloaded from an app store.

Hybrid apps:

Another development approach for building mobile apps is hybrid apps. These applications are web apps with a native app shell that connects to a mobile platform's capabilities through an embedded browser.

Hybrid app development can be considered for building apps that are usable offline, take advantage of device capabilities, or run across platforms such as Android and iOS. Hybrid apps are built with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript web technologies.

Each mobile app development methodology presents its challenges and opportunities. For a start-up, a cross-platform approach might be more appropriate, while for another, native development might be the best route to capture a business opportunity.

[Also, read this blog post: Native, Web, Hybrid, or Cross-Platform – How to Choose the Right Mobile App for Your Business?]

How to create a mobile app?

Creating a software application first requires a clear strategy. The journey often starts with an app idea.

You research the market for similar products, write down all the required features and functionalities the app must have, and write down about the target market. You discuss the idea with the team and key stakeholders such as senior leadership, customer groups, etc. You pitch the idea and aim for early shareholder buy-ins for reduced friction.

Once the basics are sorted, you must tackle the other vital things. Answering the following questions can further help you build an app at the desired pace without overspending.

• What is the purpose of the software application?
• Who is the target audience?
• What is the maximum budget for the project?
• What are the timelines?
• What platforms (such as Android and iOS) and devices will the app support?
• What features and functionalities are needed?
• How will the app handle user data and privacy?
• What technology stack will be used?
• How will the App be Tested and Validated?
• What is the Launch and Marketing Strategy?

Confronting these questions honestly will help streamline and accelerate the app development process and meet the ever-increasing customer expectations.

Hiring a long-established mobile app development company with a proven track record, such as Kellton, can allow you to offload much of the app development work and focus more on achieving core milestones.

[Also, read our detailed blog post on how to create a mobile app.]

Current trends in mobile app development

There’s always something happening in the field of mobile app development. And it’s good to stay in the know. The most fascinating trends shaping up in development include the following:

1. Low-code/No-code development:

Low-code/no-code tools and technology democratize technology across the organization. What was once the unchallenged domain of developers has now become a more accessible and less technical platform where everyone needing an app can come and build one without relying on traditional IT.

The surge in popularity of low-code/no-code technologies is such that it is expected that over 70% of new business applications will use them by 2025.

[Read our in-depth post on Low-code/No-code development for businesses.]

2. On-demand apps:

You might have heard about on-demand apps for the time. But the truth is these apps have become integral to our lives. Consider Uber, Ola, Instacart, Taco Bell, Teleflora, Angi, and TaskRabbit when considering on-demand applications.

According to a PwC report, the on-demand economy is booming and will likely generate revenue worth $335 billion by 2025. Mobile app development companies and businesses can enter the on-demand economy and create greater customer value while building new revenue streams. Read our in-depth post on On-demand apps here.

3. Super-apps:

Gartner calls super apps “A Swiss army knife — with a range of component tools (mini-apps) that the user can use and remove as needed.”

A super app is a relatively new trend in the mobile app development landscape. Modern customers can access various services, including ride-hailing, food delivery, social networking, e-commerce, and mobile payments.

By integrating multiple services into one user-friendly dashboard, super apps streamline the overall customer experience as customers do not have to switch between 10 different apps. Gojek, Alipay, WeChat, Tata Neu, and Careem are some super apps that help their companies move ahead and generate significant value.

[Read our in-depth post on super apps here.]

4. Rise of 5G technology:

5G is one of the top trends in mobile app development. 5G can be up to 100 times faster than 4G, with up to 10 Gbps speeds. This allows apps to load content and deliver information almost instantly, making it easier to manage data-intensive operations like video streaming, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR). 5G can also improve GPS performance, enhance cloud compatibility, and enable faster response times

5. Internet of Things (IoT) App Integration:

IoT integration is another emerging trend in mobile app development. It is the process of integrating devices and sensors with apps and databases to generate more profitable outcomes. The possibilities are endless. Building a connected ecosystem can help businesses gain improved transparency in their operations and plan better.

In addition to the trends we just mentioned, some other developments include touchless UI, Customized apps for foldable devices, AI-driven development, Chatbots and conversational interfaces, and Beacon technologies. Together, these developments are leading to more changes than ever in the mobile app development domain, causing the emergence of a new era of possibilities and challenges.

We’ve talked about the key trends shaping mobile app development's future. Now, let’s talk briefly about the technologies or frameworks that lead to accelerated application development lifecycles.

Top 5 essential features to include in your mobile app

People are using mobile apps more than ever—millions of apps are waiting to be downloaded on prominent app stores. However, how would you ensure that your apps stand out in such a crowded space?

The key to building a successful mobile app is ensuring it has all the essential features to provide an excellent customer experience and help you reach your business goals. Here are some key characteristics of a good app:

• Intuitive and engaging UI: Mobile apps have a high churn rate, so it is essential to design a user interface that is both intuitive and engaging. An excellent first impression is imperative to keep the users engaged.
  
  To get started, research the competition and see what they have done. This could be one of the first steps. Then, you can keep the UI clutter-free and build on design consistency so users do not experience discomfort while navigating your app.
• Superfast loading time: Apps with fast downloading time are likelier to keep users engaged, leading to higher user retention and more conversions. To develop fast and responsible applications, consider applying practices such as enabling browser caching, using a suitable content delivery network (CDN), and compressing videos, graphics, and audio content.
• Built-in integrations: To build an app that delivers results, it must be integration-friendly. What we mean by integration-friendly is that you can connect it seamlessly with your IT ecosystem so that there are no information silos and teams can resolve business problems faster. So, choose the tech stack of the app very carefully. Harness the power of authorized APIs to take full advantage of connectivity and improve overall customer experience.
• Data integrity: Security is another crucial feature that must not be compromised while building a software application. To create secure applications, consider development methodologies such as DevOps and DevSecOps.
  
  Some notable actions that can be taken to boost app security include implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), data encryption (both at rest and in transit), using only authorized APIs, and designing secure code. Businesses can also consider using tools and technologies, such as Cloud Computing, that help them comply with data regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).
• Chat support/callback functions: Must-have app features include chat support/callback functions, especially if your employees are likely to use them. AI-driven chatbots can be leveraged to automate tasks and deliver customized responses. By integrating this support feature, you can help your app stand apart in the crowd while ensuring greater user value.

Look for other must-have features for your software application. A detailed analysis of your business requirements will help you determine more features that your app has to have. You can then discuss these requirements with your development partner.

Best mobile app development frameworks

We have talked about the key features that a modern application has to have. Now, let’s discuss the leading app development frameworks.

1. Flutter:

Flutter is an open-source app development framework built and supported by Google and a diverse community. It helps developers develop beautiful and natively compiled applications that run across several platforms, such as Android and iOS, from a single codebase. Its popularity in the developer community can be gauged from over two million developers already using it, and nearly 500,000 use it monthly.

[Read an in-depth blog post on Decoding Flutter App Development: Why opt for Flutter?]

2. React Native:

React Native is an open-source JavaScript framework for developing native-like applications for Android and iOS. React Native apps are compiled into native code, which means that they perform as well as native apps developed in Java or Kotlin for Android and Swift or Objective-C for iOS.

Like Flutter, React Native has a thriving community that helps build an ever-growing ecosystem of libraries and components, which developers can use to build truly native apps at a breathtaking pace.

React Native mobile applications are written in JavaScript and JSX, like React for the Web. These apps are also designed to access the real mobile UI components to look and feel like native apps.

[Get to know about the Top React Native App Development trends worth watching in 2024]

3. SwiftUI:

SwiftUI is used by developers to build applications for Apple devices. SwiftUI is primarily a UI development framework built using the Swift programming language. It was introduced back in 2019 and has matured over the years. SwiftUI uses a descriptive syntax, meaning app developers can describe how they want the app UI to look and behave. The main building blocks of a SwiftUI app are the App, Scene, and View protocols. App development companies can reuse code across Apple products and platforms, leading to faster development and time-to-market.

4. Ionic:

Ionic is an open-source UI toolkit to create modern, high-quality, cross-platform mobile applications. Ionic promises fast and highly responsive apps with hardware-accelerated transitions and touch-optimized gestures. The UI framework also allows developers to build stunning, flexible user interfaces from a single shared codebase. It also provides built-in support for React, Angular, and Vue and empowers development teams to see the changes to the codebase in real time with its Hot Refresh feature.

5. Xamarin:

Xamarin allows developers to write code in C# to create mobile applications for multiple platforms using a single codebase. It includes add-ins to Microsoft Visual Studio that enable developers to build apps within the IDE using code completion and IntelliSense. Xamarin for Visual Studio also has extensions that provide support for building, deploying, and debugging apps on a device or simulator.

However, these are just a few of the many frameworks that are available for app development. In this blog post, we talked about five more app development frameworks.

[Learn about these tools in great detail here: Top 10 Mobile App Development Frameworks that will dominate 2024]

Best practices for mobile app development

Mobile app development involves various best practices to ensure the creation of high-quality, user-friendly, and efficient applications. Here are some essential best practices:

1. Conduct research

Adequate research is the key to building apps that stand a chance in the fierce competition. You should start as soon as the app idea hits you. However, what’s wise is to hold back till you and your team have conducted comprehensive research about every critical aspect of your application. The time and resources you will put into your research will help you plan effectively and meet the challenges (you will have them no matter how much you plan) head-on.

2. Embed security from early on

Apply ‘DevSecOps’ principles and practices while developing and deploying your software applications. DevSecOps is about ‘integrating security at every stage of software development and deployment, from conceptualization to implementation.’ Prioritizing data, apps, and system security is paramount as more sophisticated cyber crimes are at an all-time high. Securing the app becomes all the more crucial if it contains or transmits sensitive data such as customer or financial data.

3. Choose the right technology and platform

You must pick the best tech stack to get your app running. Your carefully planned strategy can provide a high-level overview of the technology and the kind of app development methodologies you’d use to build your software application.

However, to reduce the friction and avoid overspending on the project, it is imperative to determine the tools and technologies you’d like to use for development and deployment. Figure out whether it’ll be a native app, a hybrid app, a PWA, or a cross-platform application.

Another thing to consider is the platform selection. The earlier you decide on this, the better you can plan the entire development process. Determining whether the app will target iOS or Android platforms will help decide on the development resources and estimated development time and costs.

4. Built with analytics in mind

If the app has to do anything with massive amounts of data, the development team has to approach app development with analytics in mind. Analytics are the sources that generate invaluable insights to inform decision-making.

To embed intelligence into the app, the data and development teams can integrate suitable data analytics platforms and tools to help the leadership gain increased visibility into how their customers interact with the app and their purchasing behaviors to drive future programs.

5. Plan for updates

Monitoring app performance and taking corrective measures regularly is another best practice in the app development landscape.

A sustainable mechanism for monitoring and constantly updating the app's health ensures a fast, secure, and scalable app. These updates could include minor bug fixes, the launch of new features and functionalities, etc. The ultimate goal is to keep the app fresh and relevant to modern customers.

How much does it cost to build an app?

The app development cost depends on multiple factors, such as what kind of app you want to build, the scope of work, whether you’re an in-house team or want to outsource the project, whether you will hire one or a few freelancers or a dedicated mobile app development company, and the location of these developers.

Developing a native app costs more than building a cross-platform application. The category of the software application also affects the development costs. So, as you can see, it’s a challenge to estimate how much it’d cost to develop an application.

The average cost to build an app ranges from $40,000–$60,000 for a basic app with simple features to $300,000+ for a complex app for multiple platforms.

Here are some approximate costs for different types of apps:

• Basic apps: $20,000–$60,000 for simple games, social media, clocks, or games
• Mid-level apps: $50,000–$200,000 for eCommerce apps, chatting apps, or food delivery apps
• Complex apps: $80,000–$350,000 for enterprise apps, logistics, and gaming apps, or telehealth apps
• Netflix-like apps: $25,000–$200,000
• Holafly-like eSIM apps: $30,000–$300,000
• Uber-like apps: $30,000–$100,000

It is important to note that these are plain estimates. The actual cost may differ massively, depending on your specific needs regarding the tech stack, app category, location of the development partner, etc.

[Here’s our detailed blog post on what impacts app development costs.]

Parting thoughts

Building a successful mobile app is an intricate process that requires careful planning, a deep understanding of the end-users, and a commitment to continuous monitoring and improvement.

Every decision contributes to the success or failure of a software application, from deciding on the type of app, such as native or hybrid, to integrating the essential features and leveraging the latest trends, such as low-code/no-code development.

Companies can build apps independently if they have enough in-house expertise and resources. Or, they can choose to ease this entire journey by partnering with a reliable mobile app development company, such as Kellton.

Here at Kellton, we harness the power of technology and our creative vision to develop secure software solutions for our clients across industries. Whether you need a simple software product or a highly advanced one that is secure and scalable, we can help. Connect with us to discuss your project!