Cross-Platform App Development | Complete Guide

Today the competition is fierce and the usage of different applications for convenience is becoming the mandatory part of our day to day life. Apps also make it easier for companies to connect with their targeted market. As a result, cross-platform app development allows the development of applications that run smoothly on multiple platforms. You will learn more about the unique features of this app development method from this blog.

The app development marketing is changing rapidly and is becoming stronger along with the technologies. Businesses should concentrate their main focus on being present on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Beyond that, the adoption of native apps is frequently hampered by financial constraints. And in this situation cross-platform app development plays an important role. Businesses usually choose this approach when looking for the best strategy because it offers a strong foundation of the Windows, iOS, and Android platforms.

In such circumstances, using a platform-neutral approach to develop apps that work on multiple platforms using the same codebase is important. Definitely a saving grace! 

A recent report by Market Research shows that The Cross Platform App Development Framework market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 18.7% from 2024 to 2030, from an anticipated US$149.5 billion in 2024 to US$418.2 billion by 2030.

Therefore, in this blog, we will go through all the essential details of cross-platform app development. 

Want to know more? Let’s get started!

The Cross-Platform App Development Framework Definition

In a nutshell, cross-platform is a software application that can run on multiple different platforms such as Windows, iOS, Android, Blackberry and others. The application developed on a cross-platform framework has one code base for each platform; in simple terms, it means the code will be created once, and that will be the foundation of the application and it will work effectively on multiple operating systems. In today's app development industry, it is one of the most efficient and cost-effective approaches to developing an application. And practically all the leading companies are going for this approach.

For additional clarification, cross-platform app development companies focus on developing effective and adaptable apps that work smoothly on various platforms. These IT firms can minimize development time and expense while maintaining a consistent user experience across all platforms by leveraging cutting edge mobile frameworks and tools.

5 Benefits of Cross-Platform App Development

These are the primary advantages of cross-platform app development:

Minimal Development Prices

In a cross-platform development framework there is one code base that runs for multiple platforms. It also comes with an agile development method, effective tools and reusable codes that help reduce development expenses. 

Maximum Exposure To The Market

Companies can build and release apps for the web and other platforms by the best cross-platform app development frameworks. As an outcome, building a single app for both the Android and iOS platforms optimizes their reach.

Fast Development Method

Another most rewarding aspect of developing these cross-platform apps is the fast app development process. One source code for multiple platforms can be used by developers, which ultimately reduces the workload and development time.

Quick Deployment And Maintainance

Choosing this framework helps in easy deployment and maintenance. Developers can share updates and changes across platforms and other devices and bugs can be fixed at once. It thus saves significant time and money. 

Integration With Cloud

Cross-platform apps are more adaptable and allow various plugins into cloud computing configurations. In simple words, to increase the functionality of the application, the single code base is connected with multiple extensions or plugins.

Top Frameworks For Cross-Platform App Development

If the framework for cross-platform applications you choose is excellent, the whole approach appears simple. These are the lists of some of the best frameworks:

Ionic

Ionic is a widely used front-end framework that facilitates the creation of apps using HTML, JavaScript and CSS. This framework can be used to develop apps for Windows, Android and iOS. 

• JavaScript is used as a programming language.
• Features: Cordova plugins, Cost-efficient, Helpful native plugins, Simple testing.
• Best Examples: Southwest Airlines, National Health Service (NHS), T-Mobile.

Flutter

Flutter is one of the leading frameworks for developing cross-platform applications. It has an open-source SDK that lets developers develop top iOS and Android apps from a single code source.

• Dart is used as a programming language.
• Features: Graphical widget, Easy access to native features, Hot reload, and Internationalization.
• Best Examples: BMW, Google Ads, Hamilton App.

React Native

As one of the best cross-platform development frameworks, React Native is used by the majority of providers when developing apps. Facebook was the one who first developed it.

• JavaScript is used as a programming language.
• Features: Native performance, Quick refresh, UI centric, Hot reload.
• Best Examples: Facebook, Instagram, Uber Eats, Tesla.

PhoneGap

PhoneGap is a good option for creating cross-platform applications because it lets developers effortlessly create apps for Android and iOS devices using JavaScript, HTML5 and CSS3.

• JavaScript is used as a programming language.
• Features: Strong backend, Simple plugins, Open source, and Development Agility.
• Best Examples: Nike Training Club, PayPal Here, Wikipedia Mobile.

Xamarin

Xamarin offers similar features as Ionic but because it is developed on top of the .NET foundation, it is typically used by .Net developers.

• C# is used as a programming language.
• Features: Code sharing, Easy maintenance, Code reusability.
• Best Examples: BBC Good Food, Alaska Airlines, Novarum DX.

Native Script

NativeScript is a cross-platform as well as open-source framework that allows developers to develop apps for Android and iOS by using any language that incorporates AngularJS, TypeScript, C#, and many more. 

• TypeScript and JavaScript are used as programming languages.
• Features: Easy access to native APIs and other plugins, Instant sharing, Live reload, and Angular 8 support. 
• Best Example: Daily Nanny, Strudel, Breethe.

Cross-Platform Application Development Restrictions

You can face some challenges while choosing the best cross-platform app development services. The following things mentioned below should be taken into consideration if you intend to use this approach.

• Updating Is Time-Consuming

  In comparison to native apps, which are updated as soon as Google or Apple release them, cross-platform apps take a lot of time to upgrade or even incorporate modern features.

• Reduced User Experience Quality

  The application developers cannot take advantage of platform-specific features like animations, 3D effects or enhanced graphics because you can use the shared code base for both operating systems.

• Degraded Image Quality

  The quality of graphics used in cross-platform application development is lower than that of native apps. The operating system graphics core libraries won’t be available to you. We recommend you think twice if you are looking for an app that is primarily visual.

• Decline In Poductivity

  Building hybrid apps combines native and non-native elements, which may eventually cause the application to lag because of the extra separate layer and inconsistent platform communication.

• Decreased System Performance

  These applications function well across a variety of platforms, but their performance is lower than that of apps created specifically for those platforms.

Top Techniques for Cross-Platform App Development

Mentioned below are some of the considerations to keep in mind while developing cross-platform apps.

• Build an App That Looks and Feels Amazing

  The initial thing that will attract an audience to your application is its appearance and feel. Additionally, apps that are visually appealing will increase user engagement. You need to modify each typeface to make sure that your code works efficiently.

• Perform In-Depth Research

  Perform comprehensive market research because it provides you all important information about user needs and a reliable estimate for app development. Keep your customer in mind when you perform market research and create cross-platform applications that address their pain point.

• Leverage Pre-Assembled Modules

  While developing the app, integrating premade modules can help you improve quality and productivity while cutting down on production time. Skilled app developers have no trouble figuring out what users of Android and iOS need from the application. Always keep in mind that these apps need to be streamlined and optimized for every platform.

• Implement Extensive Testing Procedures

  Make sure all software components, such as performance, loading speed, and design, are up to par before releasing the app. As a result, comprehensive software testing is necessary when creating multi-platform business applications.

Cost Calculation for Cross-Platform App Development

The cost of developing a cross-platform app is based on all the essential elements of the application, which include its features, designs, integrations and functionalities of every module. You are aware that the cost of developing an app will increase with its level of complexity.

• Typically a basic app costs between $15,000 and $30,000 or possibly more. Depending on your needs, an MVP incorporates standard user interface elements and basic features like search, in-app purchases, user profiles, login, etc.
• Creating a moderately complex app can cost around $25,000 and $45,000 or perhaps more. These applications include standard functionality along with some extra features and capabilities like location tracking, user login, and many more.
• Complex or professional applications could cost you anywhere around $40,000 and $100,000 or even more. These applications are incorporated with complex and modern functionalities you can think of. Furthermore, you will be unable to create these apps using a DIY strategy; it is very important to hire experts for this.

The Prospects of Cross-Platform App Development

A time where technology is changing rapidly, it is always essential to anticipate that cross-platform application development will advance and improve. The following are some of the major trends in software development that will impact this methodology going forward: 

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

  Artificial intelligence tools are powerful choices for creating cross-platform applications. It can assist developers with personalization and app testing. 

• Internet of Things (IoT) 

  Delivering a seamless user experience is made possible by integrating IoT technology. It connects to multiple devices and assists with app development.

• Low Code and No Code Platforms

  This allows developers to create applications with the most minimal coding that make the whole development method more readily available and quicker. 

• Cloud Solutions

  Cloud-hosted app development assists with smooth maintenance processes, safety and expansion. It allows developers to prioritize application features and capabilities.

Let’s Develop Your Next Winning Cross-Platform Apps!

To sum it up, cross-platform app development is one of the top options available for businesses, given that it instantly gets an MVP or proof of concept and offers software solutions to users across every platform and device. It is also a great choice for businesses with strict deadlines and restricted budgets that don't want to hire huge development teams with expertise in native platforms. In this regard, partnering with MSM Coretech to manage app development is the best choice if your internal team lacks expertise in the best cross-platform app development framework. 

And having worked in the IT industry for more than 6 years, our professionals are skilled at developing excellent cross-platform applications that empower businesses and startups all over the globe. To enhance customer experiences and give businesses the most out of their digital platforms, we gather worldwide expertise. Partnering with us will also help you increase user engagement, expedie operations and save a lot of money.

To find out more about our app development services, get in touch with us!

The Author

Anjali Verma

Anjali Verma is a Content Writer at MSM Coretech Innovation, where she creates engaging and insightful tech blogs. With over three years of experience in content writing, she combines strategic thinking with creativity to produce impactful, SEO-driven content. Her passion for technology and storytelling drives her to craft pieces that not only inform but also inspire. While she specializes in tech topics, Anjali’s versatility extends to writing across various niches, making her a well-rounded and thoughtful writer in the digital space.