App development – Talent500 Blog

Roadmap to Flutter Development

Posted on November 16, 2022July 11, 2023 by anushree

What is Flutter?

It is an open-source mobile SDK (Software Development Kit) which helps in developing applications for iOS, Android, Web, Desktop using a single codebase. Development of applications using Flutter will be a bit faster and easy.

Also, using one time code, you can make beautiful applications in varied technologies such as iOS, Android, etc.

Why Flutter?

Fast development experience
Heavily optimized
Rich set of widgets
Reduces cost and complexity of app production across platforms
Single codebase to rule them all
Simple and easy to learn and use
Hot Reload/ Hot Restart feature makes it very easy to design

Tech stack required for Flutter:

C | C++ | DART | SKIA (2-D RENDERING ENGINE)

Note: In order to design a UI very quickly, you can learn how to use Flutter Flow.

Roadmap:

Step 1 : Know a programming language and OOPS concept

Before proceeding with development, try to go through the OOPS Concept first. Brush up the concepts once and then start with a programming language.

Flutter actually uses DART, so try to be thorough with it. Be clear with the basic dart concepts.

Step 2 : Understand the IDE

Get an idea of how the IDE works. Go through the interface, get an overview of the shortcut commands as well.

Step 3 : Start off with the very basic concepts

Get along with the variety of widgets such as Stateful and Stateless, Accessibility, Async, Cupertino, Containers, Rows, Columns, Scaffold. Other concepts will include Lists, Map, Lambda function, Aspect Ratio, Alignment, Cards, Sized Box. Understand about the Styles and Assets as well.

Step 4 : Try static UI then

Try creating a static UI first. Make use of text, image, button, raised buttons, containers, rows, columns, constrained box, elevated button, etc.

Step 5 : Start with Dynamic UI

Continue with creating dynamic UI after you understand how to create a static UI. Concepts include List View, Grid View, Expanded class, Slivers.

Step 6 : Know the animations

The animations are a very important aspect of UI such as Curved Animation, Animation Controller, Tween, Animated Widgets, Animated Builder, Implicit animations, Hero animations.

Step 7 : Know about memory and storage management

Learn about the File System, Shared Preferences, how states actually work, SQLite.

Step 8 : Know 3rd party libraries and state management

There are multiple third party libraries that one should know about such as font_awesome, http, dio, get_it, cached_network_image, SQFLite, RxDart, bloc_pattern, flutter_webview_plugin. The State Management includes Provider, setState, BLoC, Redux, etc.

Step 9 : Understand the version control

Version Control is basically for tracking and managing changes to the software code. Through this, a developer will be able to trace out the changes that have been done to the code.

So for this, get familiar with any one of these – Git, Github, bitbucket, GitLab.

Also, if possible try to get your hands on any one of these using Terminal or Source Tree. Though Source Tree is easy to use, one should know Terminal commands as well.

Step 10 : Try to work with Native Integration

After learning Flutter, try once with native integration so that one can get an idea like how the actual android, iOS, desktop apps work and how they will be uploaded on their respective platforms such as App Store and Play Store.

For this, you can go through different programming languages such as Java, Kotlin, Swift, Objective C, and different IDE’s such as Xcode, Android Studio.

Also, get an idea of iOS Profiles, Certifications, App Signing.

Apart from these, Learn Project Structures as well. There are certain predefined architectures such as MVVM, MVC, MVP, etc.

Note: This roadmap has been created keeping in mind a person who is learning from scratch. If you find another roadmap easier to follow, don’t hesitate from trying that out!

Low-code Vs. No Code application development

Posted on November 4, 2022November 4, 2022 by nemo job

The application development domain is evolving with leaps and bounds. And the two technologies currently stealing the spotlight include low-code and no-code app development. With several similarities between no-code and low-code application development, it is easy to confuse both terms.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the details of low-code and no-code application development and discuss the difference between the two.

Let’s get started!

What is low-code Development?

Low-code application development involves constructing an application without the aid of complex software programming.
These tools include drag-and-drop, automatic generation and editing tools, making it easier for software engineers to develop applications.
This solution is applied in developing websites, mobile apps, and other computational applications that use different operating systems as well as devices with or without internet connections.
Low-code application development gives developers the ability to create a customized program that works with their customers and business goals. This means you can develop apps that are easy to use, save time and money with minimal effort, and more importantly, highly accurate.

You’ll just need to consider three things for application development using low-code technology:

Anyone working in the IT domain or enterprise can develop web and mobile applications, given that they dedicate a particular amount of time, have interest and minimum technical aptitude.
Moreover, any active application will require periodic updates and regular maintenance, so developers need to invest time for consistent post-development support.
Finally, developers should have a clear understanding of the app utilization and how it’ll support a company’s goals, business priorities and integration into existing workflows.

What is a low-code Development Platform?

If you’re a developer, then you know how hard it is to manage all of the different application development tools and platforms. You have to keep up with new updates, be aware of security threats, and make sure that you know how to use everything in your toolbox.

But what if there was a way for you to use the same tools with different teams? What if you could build apps that are more flexible and powerful than ever before?

That’s what low-code development platforms do!

A low-code development platform is a web-based application that allows you to create applications without hard-core coding.
They use a graphical user interface (GUI) or web-based interface to allow developers to build apps without having to write code or learn how to program.
The platform is typically built on top of an existing framework, such as Ruby on Rails or Laravel, that handles the back-end logic.
You just need to write your UI (user interface) in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Low-code platforms are often referred to as “drag-and-drop” platforms.
Low-code development platforms are softwares that are designed to help developers create applications quickly and efficiently.

Who can benefit from low-code app development platforms?

Low-code development platforms are mainly used by non-technical teams or individuals who want to build an app but do not have the time, experience or skill set to develop it themselves.
It’s also a good choice for companies that have existing code bases they want to integrate with and reuse but don’t want to spend the time and money recreating everything from scratch.
This can even be a great option for developers who want to learn how to code but don’t want to build everything themselves.
They can also be used by small businesses that want to create their own apps but do not have the budget for more expensive options like full-stack development platforms.

What are the benefits of low-code development?

Easy and efficient – It is easier to create an ‘interactive’ application as it can be created without having to write extensive code. It is also efficient because you do not have to write all of the code for your application.
Fast prototyping – It takes less time to develop prototypes as you don’t have to write all the application logic in your first iteration. This helps you test your designs faster and validate user feedback quickly before spending more time on design details.
Less waste – No more wasted effort writing boilerplate files or making small changes over and over again until something works properly!
Accessibility – You don’t have to worry about hardware requirements or server setup – everything runs straight through your browser!
Less complexity – It also uses an approach called “single-page” design, which means that each page of your application functions as a standalone entity rather than as part of a larger whole. This allows you to focus on only one thing at a time and gives your users (or potential customers) the impression that they’re interacting with one unitary system rather than several different ones.
Easy maintenance – Low-code development means that your application will be easier to maintain in the long run because it won’t require as many updates or changes over time.
Affordable – The cost of creating and maintaining these types of applications is much lower than traditional applications because there is no programming involved.
Easy to deploy – Low-code applications can be easily deployed on cloud platforms like AWS or Azure.
Efficient market expansion – Low-code applications are more flexible and customizable, which means you can easily distribute them to different users, locations, or platforms. This makes it easier for your business to expand into new markets and services.

All these benefits ultimately mean less work for you, which translates into happier clients and happier employees!

No-Code Application Development

No-code application development is a methodology that allows businesses or developers to build their own applications without having to write any code. In other words, you don’t have to write any Java or other programming languages in order to create applications for your own business or organization.
Instead, you can use existing programming languages and a combination of tool sets to build the apps you need without having to learn how to program in those languages themselves. This includes tools like Microsoft Visual Studio or Adobe Photoshop. It can also be built using some third-party tools such as NetBeans or JDeveloper.
These include visual designers, code generators and other tools that allow the team to build software without writing any code.
It’s an approach that has been used for decades, and it works for many different kinds of software applications. In fact, it’s often the only way to build complex applications without using any code at all.

Why is this so important? To understand the answer, let’s explore the benefits of no-code application development.

What are the benefits of no-code application development?

Convenient – There are no limits on what kind of business you can develop with this method because there are no restrictions on the types of applications that can be made using no-code application development methods.
Efficient – You don’t have to worry about whether or not your custom-built software will work on different platforms like Windows phones or Mac computers; instead, all platforms will work with each other because they are all based on the same underlying platform.
Affordable – It’s not just about convenience; it’s about cost savings for small businesses and organizations who don’t have the resources or expertise needed to develop an application from scratch on their own.
Time-saving and easy – No-code application development can also help you cut down your time to market and reduce costs by eliminating the need for multiple developers.
Less prone to error – This is a way to develop applications that can be executed on existing devices, with existing interfaces, using existing systems and databases. This means that your app is more likely to be bug-free and have fewer bugs coming out at launch time.

The most common types of no-code applications include:

Mobile apps
Web apps
Desktop apps
ERP systems

What is the difference between no-code and low-code application development?

Before you start your next project, you should know the difference between no-code and low-code application development.

	No-code development	Low-code development
Development Principle	The application development process that uses a visual interface to guide the user through the application’s functions	An approach to building applications that emphasizes the use of structured code, which makes it easier to create programs with less effort
Coding requirement	Does not require any programming knowledge	Can be created by anyone who is comfortable with a coding language such as HTML or JavaScript
Users	Best for developing applications by business users or citizen developers	Best for developing applications by a developer with minimal professional coding knowledge
Project Type	Simple applications, especially departmental applications	Critical, sophisticated solutions with strategic goals
Code customization	Not possible to incorporate	Adding custom code is possible when necessary
Use cases	Can be used for developing applications for the following functions: Order management Budget approval Resource onboarding & deboarding Scheduling Leave approval	Can be used for developing applications for the following: Client and partner apps and project management portals Sophisticated internal business applications Business process automation Obsolete and end-of-life application upgradation.

Similarities between no-code and low-code application development

You don’t need to know much about coding or programming to build applications.
It’s possible to build complex applications without having extensive technical knowledge.
The typical user interface is simple enough that even non-programmers can use it easily.
The cost of creating an advanced web application is much lower than building a desktop application because you can reuse most of the code across multiple platforms (web, mobile, and desktop).
Both are faster and cheaper than high code development.
Low-code and no-code applications are easier to maintain than high-code applications.
Both no-code and low-code applications need less time for testing because the developers don’t have to write any tests for them.
There is no need for manual QA testing in no-code, as well as low-code development because everything is automated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is low-code?

A: The low-code platform is a software development process that focuses on creating applications with less code.

Q: How does low-code development work?

A: Low-code applications are created by using a visual design tool and writing just the code needed to implement the logic in your application.

Q: Is low coding easy?

A: Yes! You can create an entire application without writing any line of PHP or HTML. You just need to drag and drop different components onto the page and connect them together using links, paragraphs, and notes.

Q: Are low-code applications the same as minimal UI apps?

No, they are not. Low-code applications are complex applications that do not require a UI for users to interface with.

Q: How do I develop low-code apps?

A: You can develop low-code apps using any of the following ways:-

1) Using the drag-and-drop method

2) Using the drag-and-drop method with an automatic data import tool

3) Using visual programming tools like App Inventor, PhoneGap, etc.

Q: How does low-code application development differ from high-code application development?

A: A high code application development uses a programming language that is more complicated than JavaScript, such as C++ or Java, which allows the developer to implement advanced features in their applications, such as animations and user interface components that are not possible with JavaScript alone.

Q: How does no-code application development work?

A: When you use a programming language like Java or JavaScript, each function gets its own file that contains code and instructions on how it should run. With no-code application development, you write your code in plain English instead of code so that anyone can read and understand it. This means that there’s no separate file for each function in your program; instead, all of your functions are combined into one big file called a class or package.

Q: Is no-code application development faster than traditional coding?

A: Yes! No-code apps can be built much faster because there’s no need for any external tools such as IDEs (Integrated Development Environments). In fact, many new tools have been developed specifically for this purpose so that you can spend less duration writing code and more time building great apps.

Q: Why do you need no-code application development?

A: There are several reasons why you should consider using no-code application development:

1) You want to save money on the initial cost of your project.

2) You have a limited budget for your project, and you don’t want to spend more than necessary.

3) You want to get something done quickly without having to spend time learning how to code.

Q: How long does it take to learn no-code?

A: It depends on your background and experience, but it typically takes about 1-2 weeks. Most of the time spent will be spent learning about frameworks and practices, which are the same for both no-code and traditional agile approaches.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever tried to develop an application using web technologies, you’ll know it’s not an easy task. Code needs to be written in different languages or programming frameworks, and it becomes difficult to manage code when you’re building large applications.

With no code and low-code application development, programming is simple, making it easy for even non-programmers to create powerful web applications. It doesn’t matter if you’re a coder, a marketer, a designer, or an entrepreneur – with these technologies, you have the power to build an application today!

Mobile app development skills to learn in 2022-23

Posted on November 4, 2022 by zaiba fathima

The amount of mobile software used around the world is skyrocketing. No wonder that Statista predicts that worldwide revenues from mobile apps will reach $935.2 billion in 2023!

The world is moving towards 5G smartphones and tablets, becoming a complex and advanced environment for mobile app development. This somewhat uniquely shapes our lives and brings everything to the tip of our fingers.

The trend is only expected to grow in the future, creating a demand for mobile application developers in the IT industry. Companies across various domains and industries will seek highly skilled mobile developers to build successful applications. Also, with mobile app development being so lucrative as a career, mastering what you already know, as well as learning and adapting to new technologies, is extremely important.

If you’re an aspiring developer, you may be wondering what skills are required to develop eye-catching Android apps. This one’s for you. In this blog, we are adding a comprehensive list of the most key skills to learn for developers in 2022-23.

Top skills mobile devs need

Being able to program in multiple languages

Mobile apps have become increasingly sophisticated over the last decade, with frameworks like React Native and Flutter becoming essential tools for building native applications for both iOS and Android.

Given the continuous advancement of mobile application development, knowing different programming languages is crucial. The range of programming languages is wide, with some languages used in specific contexts. If you are new to app development, there are many options available to you. Most popular ones include Java and Kotlin for Android development and Swift for iOS. As you become more adaptable, you will be able to master any new technology you encounter.

Develop cross-platform development skills

The goal of cross-platform development is to create a single program that functions identically across several platforms. Creating separate native apps for each platform is expensive. Where developing a cross-platform app can cover multiple end devices at lower costs because of the usage of platform-independent technologies like HTML and CSS.

Cross-platform mobile app development, also known as hybrid mobile app development, is a methodology that enables developers to create mobile solutions that are simultaneously compatible with a number of platforms and operating systems (Android, iOS, and Windows).

Unit Testing Best Practices

Unit testing is the process of testing individual units of source code to determine if they are fit for use. Unit tests can be performed by the programmer or by an automated tool, such as the JavaScript assertion library Jest. They are the most important and foundational techniques in software development, because they can help you detect errors before they break your application and prevent them from getting worse over time.

Unit tests should be written in plain English (or natural language) so that anyone reading them understands what they’re doing and why it was done that way. This helps keep things organized, as well as gives more clarity around expectations around each particular function/method being tested.

Clean Architecture

As you’ve probably heard, “clean architecture” is an approach to software design that emphasizes simplicity and separation of concerns. It’s also known as “Functional Reuse,” or “Clamorous Coding.” The idea behind this approach is that most applications can be broken down into smaller pieces, each with its own responsibility.

Each piece also has clear boundaries, so it knows what it should do and when it should do it (and not do it). And by breaking down your code into reusable modules like this, you’ll save time because there will be fewer lines of code in each file, which means more time spent on your actual application development instead of learning how to use frameworks!

MVVM, MVP (Architecture Patterns)

MVVM is a model-view-viewmodel pattern. It’s one of the most popular patterns in web development, and it’s used to build applications that are flexible and easy to change. In an MVP architecture, an application’s UI is completely separated from its logic, allowing it to be mocked more easily and run unit testing more efficiently.

In addition to providing modularity, testability, and a cleaner and more maintainable code base, it separates view layer development from the rest of the pattern. This makes it easier for users who aren’t familiar with JavaScript, HTML5, or CSS3, as well as developers who need more control over how their code works across different platforms or environments.

An understanding of UX/UI

The term “UX design” refers to “user experience design,” whereas UI stands for “user interface design.” Both aspects are important to a product and work together. Their roles might be quite different, referring to very different aspects of product development and design. It is imperative, however, for app owners to create a high-quality UX/UI design for their apps, with thorough research and prior planning, to understand the needs of their users and solve the problem they intend to solve.

Since engaging content and easy navigation are the hallmarks of a great design and customer experience, the need for an intuitive UX and UI grows even stronger. Majority of app users today expect a highly engaging and responsive application that is also simple to use. Hence, learning the basics of UI and UX design can give you a competitive advantage in the long run.

Writing and researching skills

We are concerned a lot about learning the hard skills of programming, designing amazing apps, learning, testing stages, and debugging skills to ensure application success with technological advancements. But no one mentions soft skills – such as communication through writing and researching skills – which are important during and after development. It is crucial for any developer interested in developing a successful app to identify market trends, user preferences, and the features integrated into other successful apps. While writing is one of the must-have skills for developers looking to make it big in the field, soft skills can come in handy when writing use cases, test cases and emails, etc.

Critical thinking

Whether you’ve already established your career in the tech industry, or you’re just dipping your toes into learning to code,.there are several soft skills coders need to set themselves apart. Critical thinking involves looking closely at the information in front of you and using it to make a logical decision. Rather than relying on their assumptions or intuition, critical thinkers use critical, logical and methodical thinking.

While developing an app, taking an analytical approach that involves asking questions, uncovering false assumptions, and evaluating various approaches to the problem are some of the major elements involved in thinking critically.

Conclusion

Developing a mobile application is a process that involves several stages to ensure the final app is of the highest quality and most efficient. As we saw in this article, there are many different options when it comes to learning these technologies. For that, almost every mobile app development company will tell you to learn essential skills to develop a mobile application.

But to get the most out of your mobile development skills, you’ll need to have a solid understanding of each framework and its strengths, and you’ll need to work on soft skills for a lucrative development process.

Things to consider while building apps for foldable devices

Posted on November 2, 2022November 7, 2022 by monica jamwal

Foldable devices had a tough run, but after years of experimentation and setbacks, they are finally gaining consumer acceptance globally. According to the International Data Corporation, the worldwide market share for foldable phones is expected to reach 27.6 million units or a market value of $29 billion in 2025.

What does it mean to developers?

The display technology used in Android foldable devices is different. Samsung Galaxy Fold, the first foldable smartphone, showed how the mobile app development domain has to act fast to keep up with the pace. The rapid transformation of display technology in foldable devices is unearthing new possibilities. As the growth of these devices is expected to be multifold, it is wise to consider the transformation of an app to support these multi-screen devices.

This article covers things app developers must consider when building applications for foldable devices.

What makes app development for foldable devices challenging?

A foldable device offers extra screen estate; that’s the main idea behind these devices. The availability of larger screens by combining two screens allows developers to provide a more immersive experience to users. Unlike traditional mobile apps, you must plan UX design with large-screen adoption. The challenge is to offer a glitch-free experience to users on foldable screens.

Another challenge is to design test cases for such apps. Foldable solutions make several use cases possible, and to ensure that there’s no bug hiding in the background, you have to test for all scenarios. Therefore, testing for foldable device apps requires more time and money.

The overall cost of building apps for foldable devices is high. Given the planning and compatibility needed in these apps, you will be venturing into a new space. This will require a unique design strategy, coding standards, and experimenting with new mobile app development frameworks and test cases, translating into higher expenses and increased development time.

1. Consider the state of the foldable device

Foremost, every foldable device will have two states: Unfolded and Folded.

When unfolded, a smartphone will essentially transform into a tablet. There is extra screen space available for a more immersive experience. You have the freedom to include more context for including secondary actions or events in your apps. The folded device will operate as a traditional smartphone, and your app will require a UI design that can be used with one hand.

The easy switch between one- or two-handed app operation requires the design teams to look at the critical UI/UX facets. There will be elements that should be within the thumb range when the device is folded, and an unfolded screen will have UI/UX elements within reach of other fingers.

2. Screen continuity and multitasking

Android foldable devices will be frequently switched between folded and unfolded states. Developers must ensure that they create a seamless user experience for both screen resolutions in their apps. With the layout changes, the app flow ambiguity will increase. As an app developer, you must code the app to keep the changes happening in the design minimal or nil.

Also, the multi-window operation presents an opportunity for multitasking. Developers and designers should consider a multi-window life cycle for their apps. Include features and design elements in your apps for foldable devices that encourage multitasking.

3. Multi-resume

Similar to multitasking, apps running on foldable devices must support multi-resume, i.e., the ability to resume functioning between foldable and unfolded screens without freezing other apps. Google allows the ability to open a few apps alongside Android 10. Previously, only one app could be resumed after the phone orientation was changed. Keep the multi-resume functionality in mind when building apps for foldable devices. It’s an essential component of app performance that must be maintained for a seamless user experience across various screen sizes.

4. Consider new screen resolutions

With foldable devices, you have more screen resolutions than traditional straight-screen devices. Android 10 and newer versions support a wide range of aspect ratios, but we never needed to explore them for a traditional smartphone. Android foldable devices, however, can give widely varying form factors, ranging from a long and thin screen to a 1:1 ratio. The apps you develop for such devices must be tested for as many resolutions as possible. Suppose your app cannot handle all the screen resolutions, in that case, you must define the maxAspect Ratio and minAspectRatio variables in code to indicate the highest and lowest ratios that your app can run.

Conclusion

As foldable devices gain popularity, more businesses will want apps that support these devices. As an app developer, you must focus on requirements to adopt the compelling future of the foldable devices landscape. The quicker you start developing apps for Android foldable devices, the more competitive edge you will have in the game-changing multi-window apps market.

Talent500 has a pool of great mobile developers that Fortune 500 companies and fast-growing startups hire. Join our platform and get ready for career-redefining opportunities.

How long does it take to develop a mobile app?

Posted on November 2, 2022November 7, 2022 by venkatesh

If you’re a mobile developer, the second most commonly asked question from clients, after the pricing, is how long it will take to develop a mobile app. There’s no definite answer that you can give, as precise app development timeline calculation requires time and experience.

Essentially, mobile app development time estimation depends on what kind of app you are working on and what features will be included. This article covers a detailed breakdown of the app development timeline.

Researching the app idea: 1-2 weeks

App development does not start promptly. Firstly, research is conducted to determine the scope of the mobile app. This stage involves market analysis, proto-personas, value proposition, and customer journey mapping. Most companies underestimate the importance of this stage. To create a successful app, you need to research the idea to ensure a place for it in the market and the need. Once the research stage is complete and you understand the app’s requirements, features, and end business goals, you can move on to the idea validation stage. At this stage, app developers create a more improved proto persona of the application by framing hypotheses and testing the app flow.

Creating product strategy: 2 weeks

To provide clarity for everyone involved in mobile app development, a product strategy is a must. At this stage, product managers create comprehensive technical design documents, product roadmaps, timelines, and cost estimations. When you create a well-thought product strategy, all stakeholders can take a hint from the documents, and there is less space for miscommunication or delays.

Building the clickable prototype: 1 week

Now that we have the product idea and strategy ready, we can move on to building a clickable prototype of the actual app. A prototype is not a fully functional application. It’s just an early attempt to visualize what we are trying to build and how to create a working solution. A mobile app prototype gives the idea of what the actual app will look like. It does not have all the animations or functionalities but tests the app’s key features. Developers do not need to focus on polishing the prototype. It just has to be functional enough to validate the app idea further.

Design and development: 2-6 months

The actual app development can begin if everything goes per the plan and the client approves the prototype. Developers create the app design alongside the development. The design and development are the two most unpredictable parts of the development. Due to the changing requirements and new technologies rolling out frequently, the app development stage can be extended. There are several ways to keep things on track, such as a lean UX design process.

The most time-consuming part of the whole app development process is coding. There is no fixed timeframe to code an app. Depending on the complexity of the applications, the number of user roles, the tech stack being used, and the availability of the talent, coding can take up to 4 to 6 months. Sometimes, stakeholders plan to hire more developers to speed up the app development. However, it proves to be counterproductive as the induction of every new team member prolongs the process.

Onboarding new developers require bringing them up to speed, conducting code reviews, understanding other developers’ code, and more. Rather than focusing on increasing the number of developers, it would help if you looked for ways to optimize the team’s performance and improve communication.

How to speed up the app development process?

While we don’t advise rushing things, you can discuss possible ways to cut the app development timeline with the development team. Here are some ways we recommend:

Strengthen communication

Communication can single-handedly accelerate mobile app development. Making arrangements to promptly connect with the clients and internal team communication for quicker approvals and decision-making will help. Use tools like Slack, Zoom, and Jira for communication and collaboration.

Take the MVP approach

You can launch a mobile app faster by including all the features with minimal work or by adding minimal elements of the best quality. It’s a no-brainer; the latter approach is much better. If your goal is to launch fast, we recommend you take the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) approach. Focus on core quality and ship with minimum features; queue the left features or improvements for the next app version. It is the best way to launch a quality mobile app faster without compromising on quality.

Conclusion

The App development timeline depends on several factors. Depending on the requirements and scope of the project, it can take months to launch a viable product. To facilitate quicker app deployment, precise requirements, timely responses, and shared responsibility are essential strategies to be implemented at all stages.

Talent500 is the premier platform for enterprising startups, and global companies to hire engineering talent. Join our elite pool of mobile developers here.

AR technology in mobile app development: What you need to know

Posted on November 2, 2022November 7, 2022 by ashwin

Augmented reality (AR), after years of application in healthcare and other domains, is finding its application in mobile app development. The success of the mobile AR game Pokemon Go encouraged interest in including AR technology in app development. But make no mistake, the applications of this technology are not just in the entertainment sector. Apps across various categories are using AR to create a seamless user experience. Brands utilize this technology to offer customers options to try a product virtually before buying, and companies use AR for interactive advertising.

The adoption of AR technology is growing and is expected to reach a market valuation of $280 billion by 2028. Unsurprisingly, companies are interested in implementing AR technology in mobile app development.

This article explores the use of augmented reality in the app development industry.

What is augmented reality?

Augmented reality is the link between virtual data and the real world. While the technical definition of AR technology varies, here are the three characteristics it must have:

It should combine the real world and virtual data in real-time
Must be interactive in real-time, that is, offers the ability to users to interact with their virtual environment
Provide a view of the world around us in 3D

AR technology is already widely available for healthcare and engineering applications. Given the high hardware performance requirement, incorporating augmented reality in mobile applications was not easy.

However, with the advancement of smartphone technology, it is now possible to have AR in app development. With the help of VR headsets and glasses, users can experience virtual reality like never before. These kinds of innovations have encouraged mobile app developers to experiment with augmented reality.

Types of AR mobile apps

It is necessary to define your business goals for augmented reality app development. There are several kinds of augmented reality apps, each with its unique set of features.

1. Marker-based augmented reality app

This mobile application uses augmented reality technology for image recognition or image marking. Once the app can identify an image or object, it further overlays digital information on the marker. The most common marker-based AR mobile apps are Google Lens and Snapchat.

2. Location-based augmented reality

Location-based AR mobile apps are also known as markerless applications. Instead of using image markers, these applications use GPS, accelerators, and compasses to create AR objects based on the user’s current location. Pokémon Go is an excellent example of how location-based augmented reality can be used in mobile app development.

3. Projection augmented reality apps

Such applications use complex algorithms and rely on visual odometry to identify an object’s precise location. Projection AR is part of car parking systems and uses built-in cameras in vehicles that collect data from multiple sensors to assist drivers. Architects and engineers also use this technology to better study construction sites.

4. Superimposition-based augmented reality apps

These applications are primarily used in healthcare and medicine. The superimposition-based augmented reality processes the actual image of the environment and then recognizes and overlays the created environment with the AR object.

How to choose an augmented reality SDK for app development?

You must choose the suitable development kit (SDK) to use augmented reality in app development. There are several tools available to choose from. Vuforia, Google ARCore, and Apple ARKit are some of the most widely used software development kits for including augmented reality in mobile applications.

Here are the factors you must consider when choosing an augmented reality SDK:

1. Cost

Augmented reality technology implementation in the mobile app can be expensive. If you are not working on a production-level application, we recommend you choose a free, open-source tool like Google ARCore. And, if you plan to build a complex mobile app with large and dynamic content, you can use paid SDKs like Vuforia.

2. Platforms

Whether you’re building an AR mobile app for iOS or Android, there are enough software development toolkits available for both platforms. The choice depends on your familiarity with the programming languages for each platform. You can use the Universal Windows Platform (UWP) kit to build applications for Windows smart devices.

3. Image recognition

A non-negotiable feature for any AR app, the chosen SDK must provide image recognition to identify objects, places, and images. 3D recognition and tracking is also an important feature that enables mobile applications to use AR technology to identify the more prominent spaces around the user, such as shopping malls, bus stations, and airports.

4. Unity support

Unity is arguably the most powerful game engine for creating video games, but it can also be utilized to make your AR mobile applications powerful. By using the powerful effects of this platform, you can create a cutting-edge user experience.

Conclusion

Augmented reality is a powerful technology with innovative and exciting app development applications. We hope this article gives you a starting point to explore AR technology for your mobile applications.

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4 key steps to become a Google-certified Android developer

Posted on October 31, 2022November 8, 2022 by vallish

As the world’s most used mobile operating system, Android has created an ecosystem for developers to find excellent opportunities. Learning Android app development is a skill that puts you on the path to a fulfilling career. But, with millions of developers already offering services, how do you assert your expertise and knowledge?

Becoming a Google-certified Android developer is an easy way to stand out. Google manages Android and openly supports the community of talented developers by offering them recognition. By clearing the Google Android Assistance Developer exam, you can quickly boost your career as a certified android developer.

This article covers a complete guide to becoming a Google-certified Android developer.

1. Are you skilled enough?

Android development is a vast domain, and to become a Google developer, you must be familiar with several concepts. Begin by referring to the syllabus to know the competency areas and individual competencies against which you will be tested. The entire syllabus is divided into five sections: Android core, user interface, data management, debugging, and testing.

You need to upskill if you are unsure about understanding any of these Android development segments. You get a single attempt for the exam, which is why it is essential to prepare. If you fail, you will have to reapply and pay the fee again. Some important concepts that you must be familiar with are the Android file system, data management, Android core syntax, and debugging. Go through the listed topics, learn, and become comfortable as you will have to implement it in code during the exam.

2. Apply for the certification exam

Visit the Google Developer official certification page to sign up for the Associate Android Developer program certification. Once you click the signup button, you will be redirected to a new page where you will be asked to select either Kotlin or Java exam signup. Choose the appropriate option, and then you will see the official certification exam instructions. In the end, there will be a ‘Purchase The Exam’ button. Next, you will be asked to upload your ID proof and continue with the fee payment of $149 or 6500 INR.

Developers can provide a passport or driving license as valid ID proof in India. If your ID proof is valid and you have paid the fee, you have successfully applied for the Google Associate Android Developer exam.

3. Attempt the exam

Once you complete step 2 successfully, you will see a button to start the exam. When you click on that button, you will be given a project that you will import into Android Studio on your machine. Along with the project, you will be given instructions on what you need to do. Before taking the exam, you must install a custom plugin called the Google Developer’s Certification plugin in Android Studio. The plugin monitors your exam and automatically submits the project after 8 hours.

Usually, you will be asked to add new features to the project, debug, test the application or fix some bugs. You have an 8 hours deadline within which you have to complete the given tasks and submit your project. You must practice coding to be up to speed and complete the assigned tasks within the allotted time.

4. Appear for the online interview

After submitting the project, you will be notified to appear for an online interview if you qualify. It is called an exit interview that lasts for 30 minutes. During the online interview, your concepts of programming and Android, in general, are evaluated. You will also be asked questions regarding the project you submitted. After the exit interview, you will be notified via email for another round of interviews if you qualify for the project and exit interview rounds. If you are eligible for the final interview round, you become a Google Certified Associate Android Developer.

Why become a Google Certified Associate Android Developer?

The certification provides many benefits to developers that they cannot enjoy otherwise. Here are some advantages of being a Google-certified developer:

You get a Google verifiable badge that you can use in your resume, social media profiles, and GitHub.
You increase your chances of getting hired as an Android developer and are offered above-average pay for your skills.
You stand apart from Android developers with no certification as you have authenticity from Google. Freelancers can easily land better-paying gigs as a certified developer.
If you are lucky, as a Google Certified Android Developer, you can get a chance to participate in official summits for Android developers on an all-expenses-paid trip.

Conclusion

A Google Developers Certification gives a significant distinction to your Android developer resume. It’s a testament to your skills and expertise and an indicator of your ability to solve challenges within provided guidelines.

Talent500 is always looking for Google-certified Android developers to join our elite talent pool. We connect you to the highest-paying gigs at Fortune 500 companies and fast-growing startups. Sign up now.

Top 5 ways to implement artificial intelligence in mobile app development

Posted on October 31, 2022November 8, 2022 by vallish

Artificial intelligence is no longer considered a futuristic technology but a requirement of the present. Many industries are always taking full advantage of AI; unsurprisingly, the software and app development domain top the list. Mobile app development companies cannot be lenient with adopting new technologies. It is because new changes in technologies are often platform supported that mandates the adoption to create secured and useful applications. According to Statista, mobile apps benefit from artificial intelligence in several ways. From predictive text and voice assistance to location-based app suggestions, a lot can be achieved using AI. Fierce competition demands the adoption of artificial intelligence in mobile app development.

That’s what this article will explore. We dive deeper into how most successful app development companies integrate AI into their products.

1. Chatbots

Chatbots are everywhere. WhatsApp support for businesses, Facebook Messenger bot for social connections, and recently, Microsoft’s Bot Framework for enterprises and more. Now, chatbots can use NLP or Natural Language Processing to provide app users with suggestions, assistance, and services. An easy way to incorporate AI in mobile app development is through chatbots. You can implement complex capabilities, too, with chatbots, such as speech recognition and cognitive abilities. All these features make conversations more human-like, improving the end-user experience.

Siri and Alexa are the best examples of how Amazon and Apple apps use chatbots to offer services, suggestions, and assistance.

2. Facial recognition

Facial recognition has become a powerful feature to implement in apps with better camera technology. Primarily used for security and recognition applications in conjunction with other information, facial recognition also has use in other apps. Improving image processing algorithms and cheaper hardware makes it possible to build myriad applications using facial recognition. Facebook, Snapchat, and Google Photos, all these apps use facial recognition to sort data, recommend interests, and offer filters. If your app is in the messenger category, you can boost its camera and photo filter capability using facial recognition. Some other ways to use this AI technology in mobile apps are text translation, image recognition, and information processing.

3. Recommendations

Suppose you are familiar with the OTT platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu. In that case, you probably know how their streaming recommendation feature helps them to keep hundreds of thousands of customers engaged. These mobile apps use artificial intelligence to empower their recommendation algorithms. You can use AI and Machine Learning to augment your app’s decision-making capability.

These technologies give a mobile app the tools necessary to recommend products, services, or shows based on the user’s age, gender, location, and preferences.

Recommendations based on artificial intelligence are much more relevant and have high conversion rates than those randomly offering suggestions. Almost all big brands use this AI feature in their mobile apps to cross-sell and upsell products. If your app is in the shopping or entertainment category, we recommend using AI.

4. Better app reasoning

Today, mobile apps can do almost anything with the right technology. Given the capabilities of new artificial intelligence algorithms like deep learning and reinforcement learning, developers can make their applications phenomenal.

When you implement AI-based app reasoning, it makes your mobile application a lot smarter. Based on previous user data, it can determine what information the user needs at a given time and provide appropriate options. For instance, the Google Glass app can help you find the available parking spot by using the surrounding data about cars and available space. Most modern car GPS navigation systems rely on AI to find the best route. Another example is Microsoft’s Cortana digital assistant, which can learn new tricks with the AI chatbot Zo.

5. Sentiment analysis

Sentiment analysis might be the most complex implementation of AI in mobile app development. It primarily involves deciphering what people think about a particular entity which can be a brand, product, person, or idea. Some mobile apps already use sentiment analysis to provide feedback to brands about their customers’ perspectives of their products and services.

Another use of this AI implementation is to decide which are the most frequently used features. It helps optimize the app and remove any unwanted or unnecessary features. Mobile development companies are increasingly using sentiment analysis to offer apps that help businesses make better decisions based on customer satisfaction levels. An example of such an app is AppBot which helps developers do sentiment analysis of their product reviews.

Conclusion

We assume that you now have a clear understanding of how AI can enhance the quality of your mobile applications. Implementing the above-listed artificial intelligence concepts in your application requires a more profound understanding, irrespective of mobile app development frameworks. As the future of mobile development will depend on AI greatly, it is essential to explore opportunities for advanced mobile app development.

Talent500 is the platform on which Fortune 500 companies and global startups build their remote mobile development teams. Join our elite pool of mobile developers and work with some of the best engineers in the world.

Scope for iOS app development in 2023

Posted on October 19, 2022November 9, 2022 by vallish

After Android, iOS is the most extensive mobile operating system. It will have a market share of 27.73% in 2022, gradually increasing due to the popularity of iPhones. As the demand for Apple devices is rising, the iOS development market is simultaneously booming. Businesses recognize the importance of mobile presence and to be included in the larger global picture of digital presence, they look for highly skilled iOS developers.

This article explores the scope of iOS app development in 2023.

1. Swift will dominate the industry

Swift is a programming language developed by Apple in 2015. It was created as a modern alternative to Objective-C for iOS app development. Developers are proactively adopting Swift for its simplified approach to app development. This programming language creates more stable iOS apps and is well-documented. Any iOS developer can learn the syntax and master Swift effortlessly. Even the community is optimistic about the growth of Swift, which is why there are twice as many Swift developers as Objective-C developers. As Apple extends the support of the programming language for various platforms, including iOS, watchOS, and tvOS, we can expect its continued expansion in 2023.

2. It’s quicker to develop iOS applications

Another reason iOS development is poised to grow in 2023 is its faster and cheaper development cycle compared to Android applications. According to market surveys, building iOS applications is 30-45% less time-consuming and more affordable than building Android applications. The significant difference in the development life-cycle is Swift’s use for iOS development. As compared to Java-written applications for the Android platform, using Swift, iOS developers can generate the same functionality and features for fewer lines of code.

iOS applications follow the standard development protocols defined by the community, unlike Android, an open-source platform. There is no standardization, which makes Android app development longer because there are diversified components and devices for which compatibility should be addressed. But Apple’s closed ecosystem means that there are only a small number of devices and only one operating system for which the app should be standardized.

3. Security

The development of the smartphone ecosystem is also presenting some security challenges. According to Statista, in 2022, 70% of businesses were victimized by ransomware attacks. It is the highest number so far. As mentioned above, Android is an open-source platform that is more vulnerable to outside threats because of its open infrastructure and design information.

However, Apple has kept iOS as a closed ecosystem which is why it is much more secure. Due to its inbuilt security, the platform offers an advanced and secured infrastructure to add in-app purchase features such as the use of online/debit/credit card information and personal documents. In 2016, Apple launched App Transport Security (ATS) to force developers to inherently take care of app security.

iOS devices are provided with additional security features every year, which is more frequent than any other device on the market. From an app security point of view, iOS development is at the top of the list, which is why more businesses trust iOS applications.

4. Developer tools for lowering the bar

The Android app development market is mature, with several Software Development Kits or SDKs available for developers. The iOS development industry is catching up with multiple developer tools, making it easier to build applications. Previously, the only standard SDK available for building iOS applications was the iOS SDK, the official Apple package for facilitating developers to build applications in a standardized format.

Before Software Development Kits, a developer has to build the functionality from scratch to include it in their application.

But today, several SDKs are available that can be imported readily to include functionality in any iOS application. For instance, Facebook SDK for iOS provides services and protocols necessary to have Facebook-based features in any iOS app. Similarly, Google offers Mobile Ads SDK for iOS to enable ad integration without using any third-party application during iOS development.

The majority of the iOS application development environment, in terms of cross-functional approaches with SDKs, is significantly lowering the bar for creating sophisticated iOS apps. Easy-to-deploy tools are available that make building high-performance and secure iOS applications simpler.

Conclusion

In 2023, the scope for iOS development remains undisputedly high. There are several reasons to consider iOS development – expanding the reach of your app to premium users who use iPhones, building highly secure and robust applications with 30-45% less investment as compared to Android app development, and induction of versatile SDKs that allow building feature enriched iOS applications with minimal lines of code.

Talent500 is a platform for iOS developers to seek global career-redefining opportunities with Fortune 500 companies and fast-growing start-ups. Sign up here and join the elite pool of talent.

Developing a super app: the complete guide

Posted on October 10, 2022November 10, 2022 by vallish

Smartphones are becoming an integral part of our professional and personal lives. According to Statista, in 2021, Google Play and Apple Store witnessed a combined 230 billion app downloads. This number is exponentially increasing, and businesses are trying to create more apps for their diversified services. But installing multiple apps takes up more storage space on a user’s device and instead they prefer to install a super app that performs multiple functions. People use apps to make payments, shop online, order food, watch movies, play games, connect with others, and many more. But it is getting increasingly difficult for them to manage all the apps. As a solution, they are looking for a single app to do it all, in other words, super apps.

What is a super app?

A super app is an application that has all the features integrated to be a complete solution for every need. You can use a super app to order food, pay bills, buy insurance, book hotels and flights, recharge your phone, etc. A good example is the Tata Neu app, which combines all of Tata group’s services in a single application. It offers “everything from groceries to gadgets, trends to travel, cuisines to coffees, and fitness to finance.”

Given the increasing demands of customers and the rising cost of app development, it is not difficult to anticipate why businesses are vying for super apps. This article looks at how to plan a super app from scratch.

1. It starts with market research

Not every category or type of app can be converted into a super app. Market research is essential to decide the inclusiveness of the super app. You must understand your users across gender, age, interests, requirements, etc., to ensure that the app navigation is suitable for every user. You might also want to partner with other online service providers to make your super app more useful. With the giants like Amazon, Tata Neu, and Paytm, it won’t be easy to compete. You should create a profitable long-term strategy when you partner with growing third-party online services.

As an app developer, you must ensure that the super app has a native feel. This is why UI/UX, design, and content of the presentation planning are essential.

2. Comprehensively define the app features

Features and functionalities are critical for the success of a super app. The requirements you find from the excessive market research should be effectively translated into features during the app development. Define what features and functionalities your app will need. Will it have e-commerce features, payment gateways, messaging and calling features, news feeds, etc.? These considerations will guide you toward taking the right UI/UX approach and technologies stack.

3. UI/UX design considerations

The design requirement for super app development is more complicated than traditional mobile applications. As you will be developing an app for several segments, the UI/UX elements have to be versatile to transform and accommodate the needs of each part. The critical factors to consider while planning super apps are color scheme, typography, effects and transitions, placement of the services, usefulness for users with physical disabilities, and content planning. Well-defined design considerations are essential for a satisfactory user experience.

4. Pick the correct technology stack

Super apps are composed of many online features across several industries. You must consider many technical aspects to integrate different services into your app. While deciding on the technology stack, you will use for app development, focus on the following aspects:

Code space consumption
Code execution time complexity
Development requirements (development time, challenges, upgrades)
Available resources
Budget

Every phase of the super app development will have specific requirements. Based on the most common conditions and architecture of super apps, here is a list of technologies that you can include in any development stack:

https://www.mindinventory.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/technology-stack-ev-charging-station-app.png

5. Quality assurance

Just like any other software, the super app development must also go through a series of test cases to ensure that the code is bug-free and top quality. QA engineers have to write test cases to evaluate the overall user experience at this stage. Any super app should be put through:

Compatibility testing
Functional testing
Installation testing
Localization testing
Manual testing
Performance and load testing
Security testing
Usability testing

The results of these testing approaches will tell the development team about the performance and code quality of the super app.

Conclusion: What to keep in mind when creating super apps?

Given the complexity of a super app, there is a need for cutting-edge IT infrastructure. The server and memory management should be blazing fast. Furthermore, you should optimize the code for faster loading and execution. The API creation for such an app is sophisticated and requires multiple developers to work on the code. And ultimately, the standards and regulations for a super app are complicated as it falls into various categories.

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