How has the world become so ‘app-savvy’? Mobile applications become a necessity of our lives for communication, entertainment, navigation, and more. We can thank mobile apps for that! But it takes much work to keep up with what’s out there and how to use them. That is why we created this Mobile Apps 101 guide – to understand all mobile apps comprehensively! NCS has everything you need to know about mobile applications, from what they are to development platforms and more.
What Are Mobile Applications?
Mobile applications are software programs downloaded directly from an app store for smartphones and tablets. Mobile apps provide entertainment, gaming, news and information, productivity tools, and more. It can also access banking, shopping, music streaming and social media services.
The demand for mobile applications is growing with the rise in mobile usage. Companies reach their customers wherever and whenever they need them with mobile apps, keeping them competitive and standing out in their industry.
Their Features
Mobile applications provide an experience tailored to the user’s device. Depending on the app, features may include:
• Location awareness – Mobile apps use a device’s GPS to determine its location and deliver relevant information, such as nearby restaurants or stores.
• Motion sensing technology – Mobile devices can detect motion and use it to interact with the app. A mobile game may allow users to control their avatar by tilting or shaking the device.
• Push notifications – Mobile apps send alerts to users when certain events occur as reminders, updates on new content or information about special offers.
• Offline access – Mobile apps allow users to access certain features or content even when not connected to the Internet. It ensures that users can still use the app in areas with poor connectivity.
• Battery efficiency – Mobile apps minimise their impact on the battery due to the limited battery life of mobile devices. It can involve optimising code, turning off unnecessary features and more.
• Security – Mobile apps protect user data and ensure only authorised users can access the app. It typically involves encryption, authentication systems, two-factor authentication, security audits and more.
Development Types of Mobile Applications
There are three main types of applications available: Native, Web-based, and Hybrid apps.
Native Applications
Native applications are built specifically for either iOS or Android. They are more reliable and faster than other mobile applications with more robust functionality since developers can unlock access to device capabilities like the camera or contact list.
Some common types of native apps include:
- Entertainment apps: Media players and streaming services designed for mobile devices.
- Gaming apps: Mobile games take advantage of the device’s hardware to create a unique gaming experience superior to what can be done with web-based applications or hybrid apps.
- Social apps: Facebook and Twitter have been built as native apps to take advantage of the device’s features.
Web-based Applications
Web-based applications run in a web browser and are optimised for mobile devices for developers to create cross-platform applications for any device. These are ideal for businesses to reach a wide range of customers without developing separate app versions for each platform.
Some common types of web-based apps include:
- E-commerce apps: These apps facilitate shopping and retail transactions.
- Productivity apps: Apps like task managers, note-taking tools, and document viewers are all web-based applications.
- Educational apps: Web-based educational apps provide an easy way to deliver lessons and content to students in various formats.
Hybrid Applications
Hybrid applications are a combination of web-based and native apps. They are written using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript but packaged inside a native “container” that accesses device features like GPS or push notifications.
Some common types of hybrid apps include:
- Lifestyle apps: These are lifestyle blogs, fitness trackers and health trackers that combine the best features of web-based and native applications.
- Utility apps: These are handy tools like calculators, calendars and to-do lists that use device capabilities while providing a web-based user experience.
- Travel apps: These help travellers plan their trips, book flights and hotels, and get the most out of their destinations. They combine maps and local attractions with web-based tools like booking engines and travel guides.
Advantages of Mobile Applications
– Mobile apps provide customers easy access to information and services on the go.
– They can make it easier to access content, such as booking tickets, checking flight times or ordering food from restaurants.
– Mobile apps are also more convenient for completing tasks like making payments or checking bank accounts.
– They tailor to individual needs providing a user-friendly experience.
– Mobile apps can help businesses grow, giving them a competitive advantage, increasing revenue streams and a greater reach to users.
Disadvantages of Mobile Applications
– Mobile apps require an internet connection to run properly, meaning they may not work in remote or rural areas with weak or no signal.
– Mobile apps are often limited in terms of features and functionality when compared to web apps.
– They can also be more expensive, requiring additional coding and software development skills.
– Mobile apps may be vulnerable to security breaches – users must take extra care to protect their personal and financial data.
– There is a risk of mobile application fatigue – users become overwhelmed by the number of apps available and stop using them altogether.
Concluding Thoughts on Mobile Apps!
Mobile applications offer convenient and efficient access to information, services and products. Businesses should understand the different mobile apps and their advantages and disadvantages. By considering these, companies can make informed decisions about the type of app best suits their needs. Ultimately, the mobile application aims to meet user needs and help businesses reach their goals.
