Apple’s mobile App Store was developed and launched on all of their mobile devices back in 2008, and a few months later we were introduced to Google Play, Google’s equivalent to the App Store. Ever since these two mobile app stores were released, app development soared through the roof and has continued to grow up until 2021.

Originally, all apps being released were native, meaning they could only be installed through their specific application store (IOS or Google). However, in recent years, many mobile apps have been developed as cross-platform, meaning their applications are designed to be compatible with more than one operating system. Take Spotify for example, their application is cross-platform across Google, Apple’s App Store, Playstation, and XBOX.

The Difference Between Native and Cross-Platform Applications

Developing a native app does have its benefits. A native app is more tailored to its specific operating system, allowing app developers to produce a fluent application. There are a few experts who still believe that native apps are superior. However, budgeting is usually the driving force behind the shift towards cross-platform development.

Ben Sandofsky, a professional app developer, said in a tweet “At this point, everyone knows that apps built with cross-platform frameworks only ship if you compromise quality. But nobody has measured whether they save time over just half-assing two native apps”.

It is, however, important to remember that the technology available for app developers is constantly changing, indicating that it is worth revisiting this topic from time to time to double-check which development option is the way to go.

Pros and Cons of Native VS Cross-Platform Apps

Cost

Native apps have a high cost of development compared to the significantly lower cost of developing a cross-platform application.

Usability

Native apps only function on a single platform, whereas the cross-platform app codes can be used on multiple and have easy portability.

Device Access

Native apps are tailor-fit to the specific operating service on which they will be built, allowing for the app to access the device’s full API without any issues. Cross-platform does not usually allow this same functionality.

Performance

Native apps are known for their seamless performance because they have been developed specifically for their OS. Modern cross-platform apps are also high performance; however, they may experience frequent lags and compatibility issues.

There are a variety of reasons as to why developers would choose either one of the application types. The choice must be made as to which application best suits your companies business model and operational goals.

For more information on app development, contact us.