If you’re considering developing a mobile app, you’ll likely be deciding between iOS and Android. Both platforms have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it can be difficult to determine which one is better suited for your app. In this article, we will explore the key factors that should influence your decision, based on real-world examples and expert opinions.
First, let’s look at some of the main differences between iOS and Android:
User Base
As of 2021, Apple’s iOS platform has a market share of around 47%, while Google’s Android platform has a market share of around 53%. This means that Android has a significantly larger user base than iOS. However, it’s important to note that the user base for both platforms is still relatively small compared to desktop computing and other forms of media consumption.
Development Environment
iOS apps are developed using Swift, Apple’s own programming language, while Android apps are developed using Java or Kotlin (the latest version of Java). Both platforms have their own development tools and libraries, which can make the development process easier or more difficult depending on your level of experience.
App Store Policies
Both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store have strict policies that developers must follow in order to submit their apps for review. The approval process can be lengthy and frustrating, especially if you need to make changes or fix bugs. However, both stores have a large user base, which means that your app has the potential to reach millions of users.
Now that we’ve covered some of the basics, let’s dive into some real-world examples:
Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, with over a billion monthly active users as of 2021. The company originally developed its app exclusively for iOS devices, but later expanded to Android as well. According to Kevin Systrom, co-founder and CEO of
, "When we first launched, we were very focused on the idea that you should be able to take pictures quickly and easily, and that’s where our focus was." However, he also acknowledges that the larger Android user base was a significant factor in their decision to expand to the platform.
Uber
Uber is another company that started exclusively on iOS before expanding to Android. According to Travis Kalanick, co-founder and former CEO of
Uber
, "We were very focused on building a great user experience for the iPhone, because that’s where our users were. But we realized that in order to be truly successful, we needed to make sure our app was accessible to as many people as possible." He notes that the larger Android user base was a significant factor in their decision to expand to the platform.
Spotify
Spotify is a music streaming service that is available on both iOS and Android devices. According to Daniel Ek, co-founder and CEO of
Spotify
, "We started out on iPhone because that’s where our users were at the time. But as Android grew, it became clear that we needed to make sure our app was available on that platform as well." He notes that both platforms have their own strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately the decision to develop for both platforms comes down to the user base.