Custom mobile app development is significantly gaining high traction in the market. The exponential revenues are bringing a hike in its demand day by day. From startups to SMEs and Fortune 500 Businesses, all have wholeheartedly embraced this change.
Any idea what’s encouraging businesses for mobile app development? Mobile applications save 7.5 hours per employee per week, and 82% of companies believe that app brings a significant hike in their ROIs (Return of Investment). Thus, mobile apps are nothing less than a revenue booster today.
Therefore, it becomes evident why app development is on the boom. But, before going ahead with it, you have to choose between Android and iOS app development.
Yes, businesses are confused between iOS and Android. CEOs, COOs, and CIOs are now feeling the confusion once limited to developers.
So today, in this blog, we will discuss significant differences between the two most popular mobile operating systems globally, namely - iOS and Android. Read on and know what will suit your business best.
A Detailed Comparison of Android & iOS App Development:
1. Market Popularity-Which is leading the race?
Let’s get straight to the point. Who has a higher market share globally? Android or iOS?
According to the latest survey, Android is currently ruling with almost 95% of the global market share. Whereas iOS holds no less far, its share is around 92%.
Though, the results also may vary from region to region. For example, Android has an overwhelming market share in Asia and Africa. On the other hand, iOS is leading slightly in North America and Europe.
Key Takeaway-
If your target audience is global, Android has a broader reach. However, iOS has a higher market share in the US and Europe which you cannot ignore for sure.
2. Security-Which one will help you make your apps more secure?
If we talk about security, it’s no secret that Apple was regarded as having the edge over its rivals. The top celebs and politicians carried iPhones because the devices were relatively secure, and it’s tough to steal data from them.
But today, things have changed drastically in the mobile world. Now Android is equally capable, and it contains bug-free security offerings too.
The choice entirely depends on your business and the type of app you are developing. For instance, if your app is a messaging service like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, none can beat Android as it results in over 1 billion global downloads every month.
Key Takeaway
If the goal is to develop an enterprise application that requires stricter security policies, consider iOS as it allows you to implement encryption for data storage.
3. Cost-Which one will help you save your money?
As both iOS and Android are open-source, the development cost is almost the same for both. Of course, there could be slight differences depending on project complexity, milestones reached, etc. But it's much less than what people generally think.
But for app marketing, you need to spend a significant amount of money on iOS applications. Apple allows app developers to access its 100 million active users only after paying this cost. No such fee needs to be paid for Android apps as they can appear in any store upon uploading.
Key Takeaway-
If the goal is to bring your products to more people at a lower cost, Android can be an ideal choice. But, for a limited number of users who are pretty tech-savvy and willing to pay off, iOS will be a great option.
4. Business model-Which will help your app make money?
Both iOS and Android allow you to generate revenue, but the way is different for both platforms. Apple implements a 30% cut on in-app purchases or subscriptions for its users. But when it comes to advertisement, Apple takes 50% of the share while Google receives no less than 70%.
But when it comes to Android, you need to pay for the OS only after the app is downloaded for free. Additionally, you can also charge users once they are in your app.
Key Takeaway-
If you want to earn money with in-app purchases, iOS must be considered over Android. But for attracting more users via advertising, Google's OS is a better option than Apple's OS.
5. User Retention-Which one will help you gain more users?
iOS apps retain their users for a longer period than Android apps. Apple users are less likely to switch to any other platform. This is why people who buy iPhones remain loyal to the brand throughout their lives.
On the contrary, Android OS has a lower user retention rate than iOS. Users find it easier to switch to a different system.
However, being a startup, this information might not be of much use to you. You may need more valuable data like user preferences, keywords ranking, etc.
Key Takeaway-
If your goal is to target a significant number of mobile users and wish to generate an income from them eventually, then choose Android.
On the contrary, if you aim to draw a smaller but loyal user base and don't mind receiving a percentage of in-app purchases, iOS will be a better choice for you.
6. Version control - Which one ensures smooth app updates?
Apple allows only approved apps to access its App Store with no options of instant release. On the other hand, Android is not as strict as Apple in this matter. Users can see your app after a week or two of its development phase.
But there's a catch! The submission process for iOS is easier and quicker than the Google Play Store. It means an update will take less time to be released on iOS than on Android.
Key Takeaway-
If you want to update your app frequently with new features, iOS is the best option for you.
7. App Crashes - Which one allows more chances of fixing errors?
iOS does an excellent job catching glitches that are most likely to cause application crashes and other bugs and security issues. The developer can improve the app before it is released to users.
However, errors can still slip past Apple's quality control system. But they are usually easy to identify and fix with no big hassle involved. On the other hand, Android allows bugs to be passed through till after release, causing major issues for business owners.
There are many third-party tools through which you can find hidden bugs before the launch of your app. But if you're using Android, it must be considered a severe drawback for your business.
Key Takeaway
If you don't mind spending time and money fixing errors, iOS is the way to go. Otherwise, go with Android.
8. Updates and Maintenance - Which platform will cost you more?
Updates and maintenance of an app take a toll on time and money for both iOS and Android developers. The entire process requires thorough testing of the update to avoid new issues from popping up, which is why it costs more with both platforms after the initial development phase.
But while iOS updates are easier to implement, Android apps require extra attention during the update process. Therefore, it can be said that iOS has a cost advantage over Android, and the only way their costs even out is when multiple developers work on one project.
Key Takeaway-
If you have limited resources, both platforms will cost you more or less similar amounts of money. Otherwise, iOS can prove to be cheaper for newbies and industry experts.
9. App Size - Which one is easier to promote?
The final factor you must consider while deciding between iOS and Android apps is the size of the file, which can determine both app cost and user experience. The difference in the requirements for both platforms is vast.
While an iOS application cannot be larger than 4GB, an Android app can easily cross the 50MB size threshold. It means you will have to put in extra efforts to ensure that your app is not too large as it can affect download speed and ultimately hurt its reputation as a quality product.
Key Takeaway
Are you targeting more users? Go with Android if file size doesn't matter much to you. Otherwise, stick with iOS.
10. Scalability: Can you make big bucks?
Android users tend to use more apps on average than iOS users. A study by Flurry shows that the average Android user spends 90 minutes on their phone daily compared to just 46 minutes of an iPhone owner.
It means that if your app targets a wide range of audiences, then you should go with Android for better scalability and more conversions. The number of apps available for Android is a huge benefit, allowing your app to stand out from the crowd.
Key Takeaway-
If you have a large budget promotion plan, go with Android, as it increases your chances of getting noticed among other competing apps. Otherwise, stick with iOS as it targets a more mature audience.
11. Ease of development - Which one will save you more time?
With the advent of various plugins for iOS and Android, developing an app has become easier compared to back in the day when it was a complicated process. With third-party tools, front-end developers can now build apps with native-like performance, reducing the need for experienced back-end developers.
iOS requires a bit more time to develop an app than Android because of its longer approval process and stringent rules.
However, if you have a less budget and need a simple solution for your business operations, then going with iOS is a better choice as it can save you more time than Android.
Key Takeaway-
Both platforms will require different resources, so if you have a limited budget, go with iOS; otherwise, choose Android.
12. Compatibility - Which one is better for IoT?
Both iOS and Android are excellent choices for Internet of Things projects regarding compatibility. So which one should you choose?
Well, it comes down to the cost. If you have a less budget and need a simple solution for your project, then go with iOS because you will not be able to use it efficiently without spending a lot of money on sensors and other hardware.
Key Takeaway-
iOS is better suited for IoT projects if you have a limited budget.
13. System Requirements - Which one is cheaper to support?
iOS apps are considered more stable, secure, and fast than Android applications. It means that you can use far less memory on your device when running an iOS app than the same type of app on Android.
As a result, iOS requires lower system requirements compared to Android. It is good news for small businesses because they can quickly launch iOS compatible apps without spending too much money on the initial development cost.
Key Takeaway-
For running an app smoothly, go with iOS if you have a limited budget.
14. Availability of Staff - What are the chances of finding a specialist?
iOS developers are in high demand, and their hourly rate for iOS application development is higher than Android developers. So, if you have big bucks, then go with hiring iOS app developers, as it has a larger pool of available resources than Android.
However, if you need someone who can do both iOS and Android development, you better go with hiring Android developers as they are cheaper than iOS app developers.
Key Takeaway
Choose Android if you need a more affordable option, or choose iOS if you have the budget to hire someone to develop for both platforms.
15. Newer Devices - Which one supports the latest devices?
As mentioned earlier, Apple launches new devices every year. You have to keep upgrading your app to support newer devices which can be a pain if budget is an issue.
Android apps are not affected by the launch of new devices, which means once your app is launched, users on older smartphones can also use it. So if you are looking for an option that saves you money, go with Android.
Key Takeaway
If your business model revolves around supporting users on older devices, choose Android to save your money. Otherwise, go with iOS if budget is not an issue.
16. Search Engine Rankings - Which one is easier to find?
When it comes to search engine ranking, iOS apps are more likely to appear on the first page of search results than Android apps. Google has openly stated that it favors iOS apps in their SERP (search engine rankings positions).
But this does not mean that Android apps cannot rank. They have just a lower chance of ranking compared to iOS apps. You just have to work harder for it.
Key Takeaway-
Go with iOS if you want your apps to appear on top of the search results.
Final Takeaways-Who wins between Android vs. iOS?
Overall, both iOS and Android are good platforms for developing business apps. However, the choice ultimately depends on your budget and what you want to achieve with your app.
If your budget is restricted, then go with Android because it offers a broader range of possibilities at an affordable price. If not, go with iOS, as it has better search engine ranking positions to help you attract more users to your business.
Therefore, it's a tie between Android vs. iOS. Just go with the option that fits your budget and business needs. If needed more assistance, consult a mobile app development company. You'll get better guidance and unbiased reviews about both platforms for your business development.
Top comments (2)
Depends on your business goals! Development Android will provide a wide user reach, while iOS may offer more monetization. The choice depends on your audience and monetization strategy.
Good article.
I think, distribution country is one of the important factor. Depends on your market, you can choose preferable platform. But I think, development to both platform is standard for successful and stable business.