Android vs iOS App Development: Which One Should You Choose? Mobile apps have become an important business tool today. The two platforms with the most mobile apps are Android and iOS, consequently, companies trying to enter the mobile application market often have to make a tough choice about which platform to go with first. Choosing between Android and iOS app development isn't just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one that can directly impact your business's market presence, revenue model, and user engagement. Each platform has its own set of advantages, challenges, user demographics, and technical requirements. Understanding these factors is essential to make an informed choice that aligns with your business goals. Let’s compare iOS and Android app development to help you make your decision between the two. Market size and audience reach of either platform need to be some of the key things to look into when focusing on iOS and Android app development. As per a survey analysis, developed by Google, Android dominates the worldwide mobile OS market with over 70%. Apple's iOS has a smaller foothold but is in a stronger position than others in the United States, Australia and parts of Europe. Another important aspect that needs to be taken into account while comparing iOS and Android app development is the cost as well as the duration for developing an application on each of the stated platforms. The UI and UX focus are key components that determine whether or not an application will be successful. With the presence of both iOS and Android operating systems, they differ in their specific UI designs which force developers to follow specific design guidelines when building an application in order to achieve user-friendliness. Another key factor while comparing iOS and Android app development is the monetization point of view. Various revenue models are available on both platforms like – paid apps, in-app purchases, subscription-based models, and advertisements. The process of getting approval for App submission in the App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android) is in fact, another key differentiating aspect of the two platforms. Apple is quite notorious for having strict standards during its app submission process. Abiding by Apple's strict measures is important. The app review procedure may last for days or a week. This time may be frustrating for developers. However, this rigorous process ensures a higher standard of app quality in the App Store. It filters out malware, spam apps, and buggy software, thereby ensuring user trust. While this may slow time-to-market, it improves the perceived credibility and safety of your app in the eyes of users. On the other hand, Android has a faster and more flexible app submission procedure. Google Play Store has less stringent guidelines and within a couple of hours, there are high chances that the apps can be accepted. This gives the developer an advantage of getting into the market faster. Thus, the Google Apps Store has a larger number of applications. This may make it quite difficult for recent applications and increase the competition. This open approach allows quicker iterations and faster bug fixes but can also result in lower app quality if not managed well. It also raises the bar for new apps to stand out, making ASO (App Store Optimization) more critical than ever. Any app needs to be maintained and its updates provided after the first launch to enhance smooth operation and user satisfaction. Updating and supporting the iOS Application is not particularly challenging due to Apple’s limited number of devices and operating system versions. More often than not, Apple’s devices are updated to the latest version soon after its introduction, which means developers will only be working on the most contemporary version of the OS. This consistent adoption rate makes iOS an attractive platform for developers who want to minimize legacy support and focus on innovation. It simplifies QA (Quality Assurance) cycles and ensures that most users get access to the latest features and updates quickly. Android's fragmentation applies not only to hardware but also to software updates. For example, a considerable part of Android users don't upgrade their OS right after the latest version is available, which means that developers need to make their apps functional across numerous OS versions. This may make it more difficult to implement the updates and broaden the range of testing that is required. Additionally, manufacturers and carriers often delay Android updates, which leads to inconsistent experiences across devices. This lag can pose challenges when launching new features that depend on the latest APIs or hardware capabilities. 1. Which platform is more cost-effective for app development, iOS or Android? iOS is generally more cost-effective due to fewer device variations and screen sizes, resulting in faster development and less testing. Android, due to its fragmentation across many devices, often requires additional time and resources to ensure compatibility, making it slightly more expensive and time-consuming to develop for. 2. How do monetization strategies differ between iOS and Android? iOS users tend to spend more on apps and in-app purchases, making it ideal for paid apps and subscription models. Android, while having a broader user base, sees higher success with ad-supported models due to user preferences for free apps and lower engagement with premium purchases. 3. Which platform has a faster app approval process? Android offers a quicker and more flexible app approval process through the Google Play Store, often taking just a few hours. iOS, on the other hand, has a more rigorous and lengthy review process, sometimes taking several days, but it results in more secure and polished app offerings. 4. Is it easier to maintain an app on iOS or Android? iOS is easier to maintain due to consistent hardware and faster OS adoption among users. Developers usually only need to focus on the latest OS versions. Android, with its fragmented ecosystem and slower OS update cycles, requires broader testing and support across multiple versions and devices. 5. Should startups choose iOS or Android for their first app? Startups should base their choice on the target market. If targeting premium users in regions like North America or Western Europe, iOS is better for generating revenue. For startups aiming at a global audience, especially in developing countries, Android offers wider reach and faster user acquisition opportunities.Market Share and Audience Reach
Android:
iOS:
Development Costs and Time
iOS: Low-Cost and Fast Development
Android: Difficulty in Development Due to Fragmentation
User Interface and User Experience
iOS: Aesthetics Over Everything
Android: Prepare to Change the Game
Monetization Opportunities
iOS: Spending More
Android: Potential For Advertising
App Store Publishing Guidelines
iOS
Android
Maintenance and Updates
iOS
Android
Go for Quantum IT’s App Development Services
FAQs
Talk to Our Experts
173 E Columbine LN, Westfield, Indiana
H-11, First Floor, Sector 63, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
10 Suffolk Place Aintree, Victoria, Australia -3336
6-425 Hespeler Road, Cambridge, Unit 303, N1R8J6
5 gleann dara,Tully,Ballinamore Co Leitrim, Ireland