Multimedia and mobility require that applications on smartphones are convincing both in functionality and comfort. With a native app, this objective can be developed and offered as needed.
Native app is already explained by the two word joined together. “App” is the short form for application and one of the best-known applications is WhatsApp.
“Native” means “adapted” and means that the app has been closely tailored to the benefits and needs of the respective user. This applies in particular to the operating system on which the application is to run.
The basis of native app development
It is important for the development of applications that they should be made available for a specific operating system. This can be Android or iOS. The app has to be tailored to the hardware. It also plays an important role in application development and delivery that software can be installed on devices with which the app can interact or is at least compatible.
There are many examples of this, including the camera function of mobile phones, GPS and access to data. Because a native app is specially developed for a device, the term proprietary software is also correct in this context.
Overview of app programming
A development environment is required for app programming. The operating system and the application are the focus of the programming work. The app has a source code that can also be edited afterwards as required. API interfaces are also offered. The programming languages depend on the system that is used. Java, C ++ or Swift are typical.
The advantages of the native app
Performance is the number 1 feature in terms of the benefits that native apps have to offer their users. They operate at speeds that give users a high level of user-friendliness. The functionality of the native app is another crucial aspect.
Since the app is developed precisely for an operating system and its special features, it is possible to use the functions of the operating system to a large extent. Bluetooth as a form of connection is just one example of how the app can be significantly expanded in terms of functionality by the operating system.
Installing the app is also convincing. It is often very straightforward and can also be carried out by users who have no previous technical knowledge. The App Store ensures that the right native app can be discovered and downloaded quickly. This is sometimes possible even when there is no connection to the Internet. In contrast, this is not the case for apps that have not been developed for mobile devices, but for the web.
The disadvantages of the native app
Due to the perfectly fitting nature of the native app, disadvantages usually take a back seat. The development costs for the app are usually not too low. The reason for this is that a native app is mostly developed for several operating systems at the same time in order to enable as many users as possible to use the app flexibly. Updates are sometimes associated with increased effort, since these too have to be individually adapted to the operating systems.
Fields of application of the native app
Different fields of application can be distinguished when using the native app:
• native app as a business model itself
• native app as a platform offering
• native app in online marketing
An app is suitable as a business model that combines a unique selling point with a must have, i.e. a great attraction for the consumer. If a platform offers apps, it strengthens its position through the services it provides for users. Amazon is an example here, as is Apple. Apps are also increasingly used in online marketing. In principle, it is important for all apps with this objective to achieve the greatest possible range.
Native app and its distribution
The native app is traditionally installed via the app store. Apple and Google Play are characteristic examples here. You can discover native apps there for free or for a fee. The user experience, which is at the forefront of app development by app developers, is also important in terms of deployment and presentation.
Often, reviews for certain apps can also be viewed, thus drawing conclusions for the selection of the personally optimal app. An app store optimization is offered for marketing, which ensures that apps are also uniquely discovered by users.