Messaging or the use of chat apps are surging in popularity these days as people prefer chat-based apps over text messages as it provides real-time interactions and gives them a personal touch experience. Compared to the previous year, the number of persons who use chat apps for messaging has increased by 15.5% when compared to previous year.

How To Create A Chat App

Being a cheaper service when compared with text messaging, most of the chat apps, provide service at very low cost or is completely free to use. 2018 is again considered to be a year of growth, where 1.85 billion people annually might use these kind of apps.

Features of a Chat App:

1) Send messages all over the world

2) Add social networking features

3) Simple and uncluttered

4) Free audio/video calling and messaging services

5) Enable individual as well as groupchats etc.

6) Mostly cloud-based

7) High reliability, scalability

8) Higher load support

9) A faster way of sending messages

10) Support graphical emoticons for enhanced user experience

11) Works in multi-platforms

12) Cost-efficient service

13) Improve security with an end to end encryption

With the explosion of popular, easy-to-use messaging apps like WhatsApp, Line, Telegram, WeChat, Tango, SnapChat, Skype, Google Hangouts, Hike etc., the demand of chat apps is growing day by day. Almost all of these apps provide real-time messaging, free voice and video calls, group chats, end-to-end encryption messaging, unlimited sharing of data and files, contact sharing,  and much more either over the mobile data plan or using Wi-Fi.

When it comes to building a chat app, the main advantage for businesses is:

  • Increased Productivity
  • Increased visibility
  • Brand promotions
  • Quicker marketing facilities

Chat Application Trend that Companies Need to Leverage On:

1. Use of Emojis:

When it comes to building a user-friendly chat app, one of the main factors to include is emojis which lets users express their emotions with just a click. Usage of emojis not only enable overall interaction but even makes the app more attractive and fun to use.

2. Integration of AI:

Now app developers are leveraging on AI to seamlessly connect and integrate with the audience. Deep learning, face recognition, emotional perception etc. are integrated into chat apps to make a better and smarter communication.

3. Multi-platform:

This feature lets you access the same account on any device, thus giving more access to their communication tools.

4. Ephemerality:

Living in the moment or end-to-end encryption is another feature that it taking over in almost all chat apps. The best thing about this feature is that you need not worry about the messages or the media that your sharing because it only exists for a very short time span.

5. Geo-location Integration:

Geo-location provides users the facility to tag the exact location to provide an effective flow of interaction on a real-time basis.

6. Cloud Service Synchronization:

This helps users to monitor, scale, store and update the hosting environment and data.

Overall, a chat app is not only for texting or sharing pictures, but it can be used for all sort of content. To attract users, brands and businesses need to generate new trends and techniques to top the chart.

Each successful chat app needs to have specific salient features, so let’s take a look at the steps to create a chat app successfully with the best functionalities.

The Startup Idea- What Makes your App Idea Special?

mvp

Having a strong app idea can lead you through the process in a well-defined way. As marketer/businessmen, look at all ideas in the app world through the lens of “how this is going to make money.”

When you’re coming up with an idea to build a chat app, you need to ask yourself two basic questions.

“How many levels are you going to have in an app?”
“What’s the design of the app going to be like?”

So, if you want to take in an advice, then, it’s way better to focus on an existing model and make it better with add-on unique features.

As you think about your idea, make sure that it is perfect from the start to end of the development process.

A major feature of innovative products is their combination of three major aspects: human desirability, financial viability, and technical feasibility. It is important to consider all three aspects to develop a fairly detailed concept before spending unnecessary efforts in implementing a solution. Get feedback from others, including potential users, to help refine your idea.

If you are to opt for developing your own chat site, you should consider these things:

1) First, explore your own resources
2) Study your competition
3) Conduct a broad analysis
4) Expand your vision by exploring other industries that are not related to yours
5) Keep an intimate relation with people whom you want to serve
6) Think about the platform where you need your app to work on

Who is your Competition? Does your Idea have a Chance?

Chatting is still the easiest way to send messages. Brands follow audiences, so, it’s not that surprising to see the explosive growth of chat apps in all fields. There are quite few from which most of us choose. Here, is our list of ten of the top chat apps that can be your app competitor.

1) Telegram:

Kicking this list off is Telegram, which is free to use. The only thing you’ll have to do is, install and start using it. Telegram focuses strongly on encryption and security. Users looking for a chat app more focused on delivering secure messages in a speedy manner certainly can go for this app.

2) WeChat:

WeChat is a popular option to consider and there are plenty of reasons to love this app. It supports Android Wear, which can help you send messages from your wrist if you have one of the supported devices. It also has a PC client so that you can message from your laptop or desktop.

3) Whatsapp:

It is a cross-platform mobile messaging app which allows you to send messages without having to pay for SMS. It’s available for iPhone, BlackBerry, Android, Windows Phone and Symbian.

With free voice and video calls, you can have face-to-face conversations, when voice or text just isn’t enough, by using your phone’s Internet connection. The latest version of the app has introduced an end to end-to-encryption to keep the personal data of the users secure.

4) Facebook Messenger:

This is easily the biggest and most widely used chat app among social media chat apps. You can talk with any of your Facebook friends or set group chats for multiple people.

5) LINE:

LINE is actually one of the biggest chat apps out in store, and it offers group chats, free video calls, free voice calls with your LINE contacts no matter where you are.

6) Hangout:

It is surely one of the most recognizable chat apps, and like a few in the list, it can be used on multiple platforms like tablets, smart phones and the computer.

7) Snapchat:

This isn’t like the traditional chat apps, but it is a chat app nonetheless. Instead of just your typical typed up messages, it lets you take a quick picture with the option of attaching a caption before sending it to your contacts.

8) Hike:

One of the unique features of hike is its offline chat facility for users. The amazing collection of stickers enhances the experience of chatting, by helping to convey real emotions.

Competition is a good thing. Go through the stories behind leading brands. Google wasn’t the first search engine and Facebook wasn’t the first social network. There are too many examples to count on.

The above-listed apps are just a few from lots left. Unless your app can do something exceptional, it will be certainly very difficult to stay in the market.

Documentation of your Idea

Complete Guide to Create a Chat App Successfully

“A really great talent finds its happiness in execution.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

There is no legal protection for ideas. Protecting the idea is crucial, especially during developmental stages. Although no legal filings can protect your app idea, the documentation can certainly help you.

Experimentation is an ongoing process that involves trying, retrying and continuous refining. Take into account different scenarios as possible and give each, a type of logic. While you begin first, think about your layout and widget choices. Make an idea of which platform you are going to use and how your UI will look on different screen sizes and resolution densities.

Sketched layouts also known as wire frames will help to show where each element will be placed and how important it will be in relation to other objects on the page. In this, you visually conceptualize the features, and approximate the layout and structure of your application.

Choosing your Platforms- iOS/Android/Windows

The popularity of mobile enterprise and consumer-based mobile apps has grown tremendously in the last decade. The app stores are flooded with millions of mobile apps covering myriad of topics and genres. Since Mobile App Development can be a lucrative business, an app developer hoping to develop the next big thing is always on the horizon.

Mobile platforms have sprung up over the years to cater to the increasing demand, but to choose which platform is best for your app is a tough one.

Knowing about the basic functionalities of iOS, Android, Windows doesn’t give you the full picture of the good and bad of each platform. The capabilities of one operating system may not be possible with the other. Know the limitations of each platform and choose.

Here are a few tips to decide which platforms you have to develop your app for.

1. Target Audience for Your App:

One of the biggest determining factors when it comes to selecting mobile platform is your app’s target audience. If your app targets the mass market, make sure that the most popular platforms such as iOS and Android are your priorities.

Android and iOS have the largest user base. Windows take a significantly smaller share of the pie. According to Business Insider, Android has captured almost 80.2% of the users while iOS trails behind at 14.8% of its users.

In the case of mobile revenue, iOS users are comparatively more loyal than Android by creating greater revenue opportunities for developers who wish to work on the iOS platform.

2. Piracy Issues:

Piracy is a prime concern for mobile app developers. Android is reported to have a whopping number of pirated apps in the playstore and can easily be pirated, circulated as apk files and installed on devices without having to root them. But in the case of iOS, be it free or paid, it requires a validation by the Apple App Store before downloading anything.

The open nature of the Google Play Store compared to the iOS App Store has created circuitous routes for downloading more apps without actually having to pay for them. This is a major cause for the concern to developers who aim to monetize their applications.

3. Environment:

iOS:

Developers looking to create apps on iOS have to work with Xcode, which supports C, C++, Objective-C++, Java, Python, Ruby, Rez and Swift source code with a variety of programming models.

The latest version, Xcode 6, includes interesting features like “Playground”, a live debugging tool and an entirely new programming language called as Swift in iPhone App Development. Even though Xcode is sleek and powerful, latency and editing errors in Xcode 6 can create issues for the developers.

Android Apps:

Android developers now have a choice between Eclipse and Android Studio during development:

a) Eclipse

The program components provide the environment for writing, modifying, compiling, debugging and deploying the software. Support system is available for C++, CBOL, Python, Ruby on Rails etc.

The advantage is that a wide range of cohesive tools is available and it runs on a variety of operating systems. But on the downside, it can be extremely slow and resource intensive.

b) Android Studio

Android Studio is now officially called IDE (Integrated Development Environment). One of the newly integrated features in Android Studio is Gradle, which is deeply integrated that users who have not used this feature may find it extremely challenging.

One of the commendable features is its layout designer with a drag-and-drop interface. This enables the creation of visually appealing chat applications.

The main drawback is the complexity, lack of resources and tutorials for beginners. New users may find it challenging to learn the ropes in Android Studio.

Windows Apps

Windows phone users make approximately 3.5% of the worldwide smart phone market share. Comparing with other mobile platforms, Windows is definitely not the top choice for an app developer.

Even though the features of Windows may not be as promising as iOS/Android, Windows App Development does provide some pretty versatile tools. This platform supports a variety of languages such as C# or C++ with XAML, C++ with Direct X and JavaScript with HTML/CSS.

Although the Windows platform may not have as large market share as Android or iOS, many of their development options are expertly designed for everyone from beginners to veteran developers.

Cross Platform Development

One more option to reduce time & cost is to go for the Hybrid Mobile App Development also known as cross-platform development.

Here, one code language runs on multiple platforms and is a cheaper and faster solution. They provide a native look and feel with the help of an HTML UI framework and CSS, JS Technology.

But, as discussed, each tool has its pros and cons, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

How much will it Cost you to Create a Chat Application?

how much cost for chat app

Mobile App development cost estimate not only hinges on development time and hourly rates, but also the price depends on a number of factors that are needed to successfully implement an idea.

Depending on project requirements, the development team can be basic or extended. A basic app team includes a UI/UX designer, project manager, at least two developers and a quality assurance engineer. If the app requires a back end infrastructure to develop, then, an API and a back end developer should also join the team.

The price of building a mobile chat app is made up of various components:

1. UI/UX design- up to 100 hours
2. Development-up to 900 hours, plus 25% of the PM and QA services.

Considering all this, the medium development price would score around $1,000- $15,000 for a an app.
Generally, a professional company takes somewhere around $5,000 to $10,000 to develop a fully functional instant messaging application like WhatsApp and Hike.

Obviously, complexity of a product is the main factor when it comes to app development costs, and out of this, the following three factors affect the final cost:

1. Technical complexity
2. Number of devices and OS
3. Custom designs and animations

1) Technical Complexity

There are several features that can add technical complexity to a project. Some common examples include:

a) Third-party integrations: Some functions in mobile apps require integration with third party libraries, frameworks, and services. Real-time chats can be easily implemented with the help of Layer, Pubnub etc.

b) Backend development: A backend is an operating system with APIs to enable the exchange of data between a mobile application and a database. The back-end implements the application business logic.

c) Admin panel development: This is a very useful tool that makes it easier to operate apps, manage users, content, view stats, and more.

d) In-app s: From virtual goods to additional functionality, there are different forms of in-app s that we can implement.

e) Use of hardware components: Smart phones are packed with different hardware components such as gyroscopes, heart rate sensors, NFC, Bluetooth, GPS, barometers etc. Finding the right one for each device and testing how different components communicate with the software may increase the cost and time.

2) Number of devices and OS

When it comes to an iOS app, it should be compatible with the latest and previous versions of iPhone and support the latest and previous iOS versions (iOS 9 and iOS 8).

This is also applicable to Android OS versions.

3) Custom designs and animations

Custom user interface costs would be higher than the price of building from standard components.
This includes the choosing of custom and standard UI components.

Designing & Developing your Chat App

Designing & Developing your Chat App- What are the Must have Features?

The dominance of social networking sites has been curbed by the emergence of messaging chat apps. Currently, the demand for live chat apps has increased to such an extent that they are heading towards dethroning the social media sites.

Messaging app is an understatement. Because there are so many features developed in an instant messaging application that has made them deployable for numerous applications.

When you are looking to build a feature-rich and sturdy chat app, you will have to use the appropriate technologies.

Features to be incorporated while creating a Chat App:

  • Location based information
  • Group chats becomes mandatory
  • Auto sync feature
  • Offline messages
  • Last Seen for the recent online activity time
  • Screen Sharing enables users to share their screens with their contacts
  • Multimedia sharing allows sharing unlimited multimedia data
  • Voice Calling feature
  • Social Integrations
  • Video Calling for real time conversation

The trend of bots has already taken off, where a large number of brands run bots. Bots make customer service interactions easier for customers, and for brands. Apps like WeChat, Kik and even Facebook messenger has started using bots in their chats.

Hiring a Developer to Create Chat App 

Hiring a Developer to Create Chat App

When you are going to hire a developer, you tend to have so many options- a firm, an individual, a small team, overseas etc. The hardest part in this would be where to start and whom to trust.

Here are few great ways to start your developer search:

Enquire Around:

This can be through co-workers, friends, family or discussion boards, websites, and review sites. Ask for referrals and explain to them what you’re looking for.

Google – Enables search of different firms and their portfolio/service offerings with their contact details.

Freelancing Sites -You can browse in freelancing websites and find job postings that are similar to yours and see what people write as their job request. You can later do research on these forums by going through their profile pages or on their main web pages, and maybe, even follow up with their contact form.

Choosing a Developer:

  • Individual Developers

Personal and collaborative– If it’s the right one, they may act more like a partner than a hired person

Specific skill sets– Every developer has their own strengths and if you get one that matches exactly what you’re doing, you will get the best results.

Cheaper– This can either be for better or for worse because you’re not paying for project management and overhead.

  • Firms

Highly deliverable and time-oriented– Firms focus on project plans and time lines. You’ll be reported with updates on project in regular basis telling you where things stand.

Project management– You’ll have one prime person who can take the lead on everything you want to discuss about the entire project.

Have backup Plans– This means that if something comes up with any of the developers, there is always a backup plan to continue your project.

Testing/QA– This helps to detect bugs and get multiple perspectives on the project.

Whomever you opt for, your primary goal is to generate revenue with your chat app. The developer needs to know exactly how to build in features to make an income out of it.
If you opt for a free app, be sure that the freelancer/the firm is well versed in integrating mobile display ads, in-app s or paid subscription services.

Which are the Best App Development Tools?

Complete Guide to Create a Chat App Successfully

Different cross platform tools have different specialities. Each platform is unique and exhibits different features, capabilities and behaviour. Multi-platform apps are truly in-today; so, you will have to find solutions to develop the best cross-formatted apps, without emptying all your resources.

Here is a list of some great tools for Mobile App Development:

1) RhoMobile: It offers an open-source framework based on Ruby. This permits to create native app, spanning over s stunning range of OS’ and smart phones. This includes Android, Windows Mobile, iOS etc. The framework supplied by this tool is in such a way that you only need to code once. This can be used to build apps for most of the major smart phones.

2) PhoneGap: Allows developers to create chat application for Android, BlackBerry, iPhone, iTouch and iPad devices. It uses standard web development languages such as HTML and JavaScript, and allows the developer to work with device hardware features such as accelerometer, GPS/location, camera, sound etc.

3)MoSync: Yet another SDK tool based on standard web programming. This offers the developer integrated compilers, libraries, run times, device profiles and various other useful tools. MoSync now also includes Eclipse-based IDE for C/C++ programming.

4)WidgetPad: This is a collaborative, open-source environment for development which uses standard web technologies, such as JavaScript, HTML5 and CSS3.

It includes source code editing, collaboration, debugging, project management, distribution. Widget Pad, which is now in private beta, can be used to create a chat application for iOS and Android.

5) Sencha: Helps to develop your tools in HTML5 and works across a handful of devices on different platforms and boosts productivity with pre-built components. Once you have developed the HTML5 code, then you can translate it to both android and iOS platforms.

6) Cocos2d: It is primarily used in two-dimensional game development. It allows the developers to use C++, JavaScript, C#, Xcode, Python etc.

7) Corona: This tool comes with the promise that you can start coding your new app in as little as five minutes after the download. The programming language is Lua, which is written in C.

8)Xamarin: Includes app store delivery, performance testing and monitoring, and the ability to do virtual tests on more devices to test whether everything is working properly.

Making use of these tools can make things easier for you to develop a reliable chat app.

How to Monetize your App?

how to monitize app

Finally, when you are finished with your app and polished it as a result of beta testing feedback, the next step is to think about business. When you plan your own development, monetization should be one of the key elements of your design.

Five strategies to design the financial aspects are given below:

Pay per Download:

Using pay per download for your app, each user will have to pay as they download and install it on their phone. Payment can be handled by an app store, mobile operator or you can set up a mechanism. Payment is generally handled in one of two ways: operator billing or credit/debit-card payments.

In-app payment:

It’s a way to charge for specific actions or assets within your application. Alternatively, you can offer some basic features of your application for free, but, charge for premium contents like videos, virtual credits, premium information and additional features.

Mobile Advertising:

As it is common on websites, you can think of earning money by displaying advertisements. Many companies offer tools to display mobile ads and it is the easiest way to make money.

Sponsorships:

The user gets your app for free and in return, is prompted to sign-up for a newsletter of your sponsor. The sponsor will pay the developer an amount for each newsletter registration.

Stickers:

Premium sticker packs are a mixture of the app’s own-produced content and content from established producers such as Disney or Sony, and from smaller providers. The rich, graphical nature of stickers can create interesting and engaging content.

Official accounts:

Such accounts allow brands, celebrities and merchants to connect and engage with users. The official account uses familiar features within the app so that they can connect with users as friends and share contents and messages.

Content Merchandising (themes, filters, wallpapers):

There are different content types that can be retailed within a messaging app. Whether this works or not depends on the implementation of the idea. This content extension can also help in core messaging experiences.

Commerce:

With a large number of users and the presence of brands in official accounts it’s likely that mobile commerce will be a direction for ambitious chatting apps to go in. WeChat has already included a scanner used to read QR codes to help users share their accounts and connect with friends. These bar codes help the users to pay for the product from WeChat.

App Publishing

app publishing

Publishing refers to the process that takes the completed Mobile App development project to the App Store.

The final step in the development of an application is to publish the application. It involves two essential tasks:

Preparing for Publication – ‘Release version’ of the application is created so that it can be deployed to compatible devices.
Distribution – The release version of an application is made available through one or more of various distribution channels.

iOS Devices

In order to distribute applications to all iOS devices, Apple requires apps to be published through the App Store, making it the one-stop shopping location for iOS applications.

With over 500,000 applications in the store, developers of many types of apps capitalize on the massive success of this single point of distribution. The App Store is a main solution, offering app developers both distribution and payment systems.

The process of submitting an application to the App Store involves:

1. Creating an App idea and selecting entitlements
2. Creating Distribution Provisioning Profile.
3. Submitting your application through iTunes Connect.

After you submit an app for publication, it goes through a review process by Apple to ensure that it meets the guidelines for quality and content. If the application fails to meet these guidelines, iOS will reject it and you’ll have to resubmit it.

Android Devices

The simplest way to distribute an Android App is via the Google Play store. It is also the simplest way to reach millions of users.

The starting point is the Google Play Developer Console. It is the dedicated dashboard for developers, which lets you manage your apps in the Play Store.

After you have signed up and paid the registration fee, complete your account details, including Developer Name (the name that is displayed on the Google Play store).

Once this is done, officially, it can take up to 48 hours for your Google Play Developer registration to be fully processed. Confirm the verification mail. After the account has been created, you can publish your apps.

Windows

In order to publish your app in Windows Store you need to create a Windows Store Account. Once you create your account, go to Dashboard using the live ID.

Verify your payment method link. Once you get the message that your account is verified, you are ready to begin submitting your app.

App Store Optimization

App Store Optimization

ASO is the process of optimizing mobile apps to rank it higher in the search results of an app store. The higher the app rank is, the more will be its visibility to its potential customers. The increased visibility can bring in more traffic to your app page in the app store.

If you’re not using ASO for your app, then you are losing the largest channel available to search your app. With thousands of apps in different app stores, majority of the developers do not utilise the ASO facility to promote their app. So, you can use this as a secret weapon to rank your app in the app store and for its overall success.

Main factors that affect ASO:

  • Title: The keyword used in the title should be the one with the most search traffic. For best results with ASO, use relevant keywords within your title.
  • Keywords: To improve your search rankings, you need to use keywords which are relevant and which are most often used by your target audience.
  • App Description: This one main field has to be filled with your apps data. This includes ‘above the fold’ and ‘below the fold’. Most of the customers only read the ‘above the fold’ which includes 1-2 sentences as description.
  • Publishers Name: Make sure that the developer’s name has relevant keywords which could help you rank better for people doing generic search.
  • Total number of Downloads: Your number of downloads are important to ASO
  • Ratings and Reviews: This is also important and difficult to control. However, there are ways to motivate happy users to rate and review your app.
  • Follow the Content Policy: You need to determine the proper app content rating and follow the content policy which is laid down for Android, iOS and Windows devices.
  • Minimize your Code Size: You should aim to minimize the code size by removing any redundant code and thus, eventually reduce the size of your app.
  • Design an attractive icon: Having a unique and attractive icon can grab customers’ attention. Attractive icons can make the users curious to know about the app.
  • Include Screen shots and Videos: Including tempting videos and images can give the user a clear idea about your app.
  • Localize your app listings: To globalize your app, you need to focus on the localization. It is the method of marketing your app to a non-English speaking audience in their native languages.
  • Update App Regularly: Keep updating your app to ensure that they meet the changing guidelines of different devices. If you fail to keep up with the guidelines, your app can be blocked in the store.

Like SEO, ASO also takes a substantial amount of time before showing results, but, you need to constantly work on it and keep on improving it. Monitor it regularly and be aware of the competitor’s ranking.

Marketing Strategy

marketing strategy

Your work doesn’t end with the launch of the app. Rather, the real work just starts. You need to start marketing your app to the maximum possible levels.

If you have a well planned and executed marketing strategy, it can yield immense benefits among the users.
Your main focus has to be the end-users of your app. So, you will have to study their mobile behavior and understand the same, before embarking on a particular marketing strategy.

Some things to be noted to achieve success with your marketing strategy:

1) Study Customer Behavior Patterns:

Focus on your target audience and find ways to engage them. Study them keenly and recognize their unique behaviour patterns where each user is unique in their own ways.

2) Main Objective should be kept in mind:

Your main aim should be to provide maximum benefits to your users through the application. To achieve this, you will have to keep active interaction with the audience, and offer them, irresistible deals and offers .

3) Refine your Marketing Strategy:

This involves the process of planning, including a team to handle various aspects of your app, publicizing and advertising your service, gathering and processing user information and choosing the right mobile platform to market your app.

4) Select the right mobile technology:

SMS is the best method to reach the maximum users, which also adapts to almost all types of mobile phones. This method of communication is the most direct and one which your audience can opt-in to receive as well.

5) Find your niche and be exclusive:

To differentiate your app with others, introduce features that no one else has given. By doing so, you enable your app to live alongside other messaging juggernauts like WhatsApp, Facebook messenger, We Chat, LINE, Hangout etc.

It’s easy to assume that your app can become the next Snapchat or WhatsApp as long as you build a solid product. However, what makes the app successful isn’t the fact that it exists, but. the efficiencies it creates.

6) Digital/Content Marketing:

Best of all, you can start a micro site and start blogging to your audience and promote your app as you would promote any other product. You can use a variety of valuable content in different forms to attract users from search engines and more.

7) Organic Promotion: 

To trace your mobile app distribution process, make sure you sign up for a good analytic tool. Let the app review sites as well as authors and pen down your app’s review. This will help in more downloads and popularity for your app. Share your app and the content on various social media platforms. You can also request users to review or rate your mobile app. Mobiles are holding a considerable share of the digital world, but, web still matters and thus, it is strongly recommended that you create a web page for your app.

8) Paid Promotion: 

Install a tracking tool to figure out the paid ad source the visitor is coming from. Calculate the total number of downloads needed to be in the top chart list. Once your app has created a buzz, cut short the paid marketing and maintain keyword rankings organically.

By focusing on marketing strategies, you can create chat application that not only makes life better for your users, but also makes a profit for your start up plan.

Post App Launch Services

post app launch services

Considering the kind of competition we have these days, post app launch services are vital for app success.

Customer Support:

Ensure that you provide your users the best customer support or risk losing them. Why? Simply because they have plenty of alternatives available.

Bug Fixing:

No software is ever bug-free. Also, with a number of software updates happening to operating systems, the chances are ever so high for bugs. So, test and fix buggy software within a short period. Otherwise users would leave you indefinitely.

New Features Incorporation:

There are so many new features cropping up every now and then. To stay in the race, you should adapt new features and work on providing fresh features as well.

 

On the whole, create chat application is an amazing option and is becoming powerful for most brands and consumers. The greatest opportunity of a chat app lies in its ability to promote all areas of the brands strategy into a great user experience. When creativity is blended with traditional business, it makes an app complete.

Experiences suggest that apps which save money or time are most attractive, followed by games and business tools. But, the success of any app cannot be predicted. Success usually comes with a lot of experimentation and perseverance.

Exclusive Bonus: Download PDF

India is home to many app development companies, thanks to the talented pool of developers in the country. Some of the main reasons that make Indian development companies the favourite of businesses – national and international alike are the cost-effectiveness, adaptability, flexibility and ability to work across different domains, platforms and tools.

Speaking of app development tools, Xamarin is one of the tools that are popular among app developers in India. Owing to the different benefits it offers over its counterparts, Xamarin is generally preferred by businesses. As a result, there is a good demand for Xamarin app development companies in India.

What is Xamarin?

Xamarin is an open-source cross-platform mobile app development framework that provides a variety of tools and accessories for developers to work with. It is one of the most popular frameworks used by developers and its demand has been constantly increasing over the years. The framework came into existence in 2011 and was later procured by Microsoft in 2016.

Xamarin uses .NET and C#, unlike the frameworks that use HTML and JavaScript and helps build iOS, Android and Windows apps using the same code. 11% of the developers across the world use Xamarin for cross-platform mobile app development.

Read Also : How To Create a Mobile App Using Xamarin

Xamarin App Development Scene in India

In the last decade, Xamarin has been increasingly used to build custom mobile apps. At present, there are over 13,000 mobile apps powered by Xamarin, with over 2 billion downloads. Xamarin has been used to build many popular apps, like Storyo, Just Giving, Olo, Skulls of the Shogun, Fresh Direct, etc.

Businesses and enterprises look forward to creating business apps that attract a large number of mobile users and provide them with standard mobile app experiences through Xamarin app development. While doing so, they also look into solutions that can make the app development process cost-effective and not lacking quality.

Outsourcing Xamarin app development to India helps companies cut down their app development costs by 50%. That is why India is one of the favourite app development destinations of businesses all over the world. As a result, there are more and more app development companies springing up in India with time.

Popular Xamarin App Development Companies in India

If you are looking to build a custom business app, here is a list of Xamarin app development companies in India.

1. Redbytes

Based in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, Redbytes has been providing app development services across different domains, including Xamarin. Since its inception in 2009, Redbytes has been providing complete development solutions – including design, development, testing, deployment, maintenance and support and more. They help clients create creative, intuitive, feature-rich and user-friendly apps that best suit the business needs of their clients. Redbytes intends to provide unique digital experience to its clients through their development services.

Redbytes follows result-oriented and process-driven development methodology to build cross-platform mobile apps using Xamarin. They believe in combining the skills and expertise accumulated over the years working on a variety of projects with the inputs from their clients to give them the exact results they had in mind. You can view their skills in their website portfolio.

Read Also : Hire a Xamarin App Development Company

2. Vofox

Vofox Solutions is a software development company based in Kochi, India (headquartered in Texas, USA) that provides next-gen IT solutions and industry-based software products. They provide native-like digital experience through Xamarin app development services. Their services include development of Xamarin mobile app and Xamarin forms, app migration and update, app testing and much more.

Through their different Xamarin development services, Vofox serves different industries, including aviation, ecommerce, healthcare, real estate, etc. believes in providing solutions that are flexible and client-friendly and making the development process profitable for all parties involved.

3. Hyperlink Infosystem

Hyperlink Infosystem is a web and mobile app development company based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat and Mumbai, Maharashtra. They believe in helping brands to step up to their next level of success through their solutions. Just like Redbytes, Hyperlink Infosystem also provides complete development solutions to design and develop apps that meet the business needs of their clients. Their services range across different platforms and frameworks – Xamarin being one of them.

The website portfolio of Hyperlink Infosystem gives you a glimpse of their expertise and skills in building apps. Their development approach focuses on results with client and end-user needs and they have managed to serve 700 clients from across the globe with this approach.

4. Appslure Websolution

Appslure Websolution is an app development company spread across different cities in India. They provide app development services across different platforms and frameworks. They believe in providing app development services by considering client needs and demands before strategizing and coming up with the right methods to provide suitable solutions.

Appslure provides custom app development solutions that reflect futuristic technologies that help their clients achieve their business goals. They have so far delivered over 500 mobile apps to clients across different industries.

Read Also : Pros and Cons of Xamarin App Development

5. Hidden Brains

Hidden Brains is yet another company that provides Xamarin app development services in India. They build native-like Xamarin apps using C# and with platform-specific features and functionalities. Their Xamarin development services include Xamarin consulting, custom Xamarin app, migration and upgrade, app maintenance, app testing and more.

The Xamarin development solutions provided by Hidden Brains involve their industry experience and domain knowledge as well as the business needs and demands of customers. They have helped businesses across the world achieve their business goals through their solutions and services.

6. Concept Infoway

Concept Infoway is a Microsoft-Certified offshore development company based in India that provides cross-platform development services using Xamarin. They apply their vast industry experience in providing the best solutions to their clients. Their strength is their team which consists of Microsoft-scalable developers and is scalable as per project needs.

Concept Infoway provides cost-effective services that involve the team’s in-depth knowledge of platforms and frameworks. Through their services, they offer best creative, innovative and feature-rich applications that help their clients be successful.

7. CMARIX

CMARIX provides a variety of software development solutions that involve developing native-like applications in iOS and Android using Xamarin. They combine their experience in cross-platform development and skills to create feature-rich next-gen applications. Their Xamarin services include Xamarin Forms app development, cross-platform app development, migration and upgrade, app maintenance and support, app testing, etc.

CMARIX follows a Xamarin development process that covers the demands of the clients as well as the development. Through their skills in cross-platform app development and a robust team, CMARIX believes in providing the best Xamarin services.

Read Also : React Native App Development Cost in India

8. Peerbits

Peerbits is a digital solutions provider that provides Xamarin app development services across different platforms. The company provides the following Xamarin app development services: Custom app development, app migration, multi-platform app development and support and maintenance.

Peerbits has been offering Xamarin app development services to its clients from across the world since 2011. They help clients provide business solutions in the form of high-performance, cost-effective applications that are a result of their expertise and client-friendly development approach.

9. Divwy Technologies

Divwy Technologies is a software solutions provider based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat that provides Xamarin app development as one of its services. Their app development services include app development, app integration, app migration, consulting and much more.

Divwy Technologies believes in providing high-quality solutions that help businesses reach new heights of success. The company intends to provide the best business solutions to its clients by involving creativity and innovation along with their skills to help their clients meet their business goals.

10. Nevina Infotech

Nevina Infotech is an IT solutions provider based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat that provides a wide variety of business solutions using diverse technology. The company provides Xamarin app development services and helps their clients create adaptable and reliable cross-platform apps. Their Xamarin services include app development across Android, iOS and Windows, app widget testing, app testing, etc.

Nevina Infotech follows a definite app development process to ensure the quality of its apps. They also provide app migration and upgrade services for clients to help them meet their business needs.

The list does not end here. There are many more such companies pan India that provide Xamarin app development services. Choosing one among them can be confusing. You can find the app development company for your project by considering the following: checking their portfolio, expertise, knowledge and skills, technologies they use, delivery time, services offered, communication, etc. It is always better if you choose the best – the Xamarin app development company that checks all criteria you are looking for rather than settling for less.

 

2020 has brought an onslaught of uncertainties where people across the globe are being advised to maintain physical distances from each other. Such unique circumstances have forced the majority of the population and businesses to transfer to an online working approach.

To ensure that work gets done smoothly, many are increasingly becoming reliant on conference calls. Having said that, studies report that working and speaking with co-workers without actually seeing them can be a cause for distraction.
 
This paves the way for apps like Zoom that have proven to excellent platforms for businesses to conduct their meetings. On the lighter note, apps like Zoom are also being increasingly used to remain in touch with friends and family members, conducting online classes to ensure that communication channels are always open. Lets see how we can create a video chat app like Zoom and its development cost

Why Has Zoom Shot To Fame In Recent Times?

Web conferencing tools are available in plenty. That said, not every platform is suited to conduct group meetings involving a large number of employees. While most support up to 10 members, you will struggle to find applications that can include higher employee numbers than that. There isn’t a ‘one size, fits all’ solution that will ensure that your video meetings go smoothly. But in recent times, Zoom as a video conferencing app has shot to fame as the application has been able to meet the operational demands for both businesses and personal individuals.
 
By enabling HD video conferencing and supporting up to 1000 participants in a single session, Zoom capitalized on the growing needs of the market that was looking for platforms to conduct online meetings. Start-ups and entrepreneurs, inspired by the skyrocketing demand for video conferencing platforms are viewing this as a viable opportunity for investment. Many are keen to create an app like Zoom too. So, the question is, how to create an app like Zoom from scratch? Let’s find out.

Read Also : How Much Does Hybrid App Development Cost?

Start With selecting a Platform

Before you commence with the application development, you need to decide on the type of target platform that you will be using. This is essential as it helps in determining the cost outlay and the tools required in the development process. Ask yourself this key question. Where do you want your application to run – Smartphones, Tablets, Laptops, Desktops? You can choose one or even all of these platforms to host your application.
 
Alternatively, you can opt to use WebRTC which does not restrict you to a particular platform only as it can support all of them. That said, you should go with an approach that is best suited to your app’s requirements, the resources available at your disposal, and the budgetary allocations.
 
In the current scenario, your available options are to go native or web-based.

Native Apps

If you choose to go the native route, you need to select which platform will you be deploying the application on. Officially, Android and iOS are supported by their respective programming languages, namely, Java and Swift/Objective-C. So, you will have to create a separate application for both iOS and Android platforms. On the other hand, you can also utilize frameworks such as React Native that permit you to develop native apps that can run on both Android and iOS devices.

Web-based Apps

A web-based application is what most developers think of first. Since WebRTC APIs come included with all major browsers, the app can be accessed on any device that has any one of these browsers installed. Moreover, using web-based applications is advantageous as there is no need for an additional third-party tool. You can use simple HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the application. Or else, go with ReactJS, Angular, or Vue that makes the app more powerful. Developing your video conferencing app is convenient on the web-based application as many desktop platforms offer it as a default inclusion with the system.
 
It is said to be ideal for those apps that are looking to enter both general computers and laptop markets. But it has been said to work well on mobile devices too. If you wish to give more power to your app as an individual entity for respective platforms, opting for the native route makes more sense. Also, if your objective is to support legacy devices, native is the way to go as it is not supported by WebRTC APIs.

Progressive Web App

Progressive Web App or PWA is a concept that has been recently gaining in popularity. This combines the best of web and native which you may wish to consider as a third strategy when creating an app like Zoom.

Define Your Video Chat App Features

zoom app features
 
Now that you have your target platform sorted, the next step is to make a list of features and functionalities that will be highlighted through your application. A lot will depend on the requirements of your application and the budget allocations. Here is a list of recommended features that can be included in your video- conferencing application.

#1. Pre-call Video Preview

Allow your app users to check the camera before joining in on a video call. Enable them to disable video, if they wish to do so.

#2. Chat

While enabling video is a must for online meeting applications like Zoom, you also need to integrate a chat feature as an add-on channel of communication that users can utilize during a call.

#3. File-Sharing

When creating a Zoom clone application, having a feature that allows users to exchange files during the online meeting offers convenience. That said, you must ensure that the app provides a secure platform to store and transport these files.

#4. Multi-party Conference

An online meeting app will only be successful with the users if it allows more than two users to join in the call. A multi-party conference feature is a tough task to accomplish but is the heart and soul of any video-conferencing application. Enabling more than 10 users to join in the call will require adequate backend support and reinforcements to ensure that the app works smoothly.

#5. Desktop Sharing

Integrating a desktop sharing feature is a key functionality that comes in handy when users are connecting from remote work locations and wish to share the content of their screens during the online meeting. This is especially useful in cases where technical support is needed and an expert can guide users to get a specific task accomplished.

#6. Recording

Recording during an online meeting can be advantageous for very many reasons. Having said that, if you consider offering this feature then make sure that you provide storage for these recordings too. Although, you can allow the user to save the recording on the Cloud or locally on their device too. You should also think about security measures to ensure that access is not granted to unauthorized users.
 
#7. Filters or Icons
If your Zoom clone application is being used in an informal capacity, then having a feature that allows users to add funny filters and icons during a call can help to attract a larger user base. This will encourage more private calls to be initiated even though your target market primarily caters to a business audience.

#8. Whiteboard

If your application is being used by educational purposes, then a Whiteboard feature helps the initiator, or in this case, the teacher to impart a class through a tool that adds graphics to an idea.

#9. Live Streaming

Thanks to social media live streaming as a feature has become extremely popular. It allows a specific user to live stream audio, video, or both to a particular group in real-time. From a business context, it can be helpful in live streaming conferences and meetings to a large group of audiences or help the government to gain access to disaster zones or rescue missions.

#10. Virtual Hand-raising

During an online meeting especially when there is a large group of members, having a virtual hand-raising feature enables a user to convey their wish to speak or voice concern by signaling to the host. This is usually through a virtual emoji that is designed in the format of raising a hand. This feature prevents multiple users from speaking at once, thus ensuring that the meeting progresses coherently and seamlessly.

#11. Polls

As the online meeting ensues, the host can create a poll that is shared with the participants. This Poll feature enables the host to collect participant responses about a specific issue or topic.

#12. Mute Participants

When the host of a meeting wants to ensure that users do not speak out of turn, he or she can make use of the ‘Mute Participants’ feature. This mutes the mic of one or more of the online meeting participants according to the desire of the host.

Know the Technology Stack

With a well-defined platform and the list of features out of the way, you need to know on how actually to create an app like Zoom. Here is the recommended technology stack.

Native Apps

  • Android:
    • Programming Languages – Java, Kotlin
    • Toolkits – Android Studio
    • SDK – Android SDK
    • Video Chat – WebRTC
  • iOS:
    • Programming Languages – Swift
    • Toolkits – Apple Code
    • SDK – iOS SDK
    • Video Chat – WebRTC

SDK and API

  • WebRTC uses 3 APIs
    • MediaStream
    • RTC PeerConnection
    • RTC DataChannel
  • Third-party APIs
    • ContusFly
    • Pubnub
    • CometChat
    • Willio

The Development Process

Take a look at the steps that you cannot ignore when developing your video conferencing app.

Step 1 – Back-end Development

To create your video conferencing app like Zoom, you need to figure out how to create the server part that contributes to the proper functioning of the platform. This has to be done right at the very onset. A ready-made BaaS solution can be used for some select apps. That said, a video conferencing application is quite complex and may require more robust technologies such as building a server from scratch.

Step 2 – UI/UX Design

The design of the app is the next step. You must design the app user interface and experience making it attractive for popular usage to the end consumer. The navigation should be simple and convenient to understand. The user should be able to quickly grasp the functioning and performance of individual features and functionalities. Your team should consist of the following experts:
  • Project Manager – 1
  • Tech Lead – 1
  • iOS Developers – 2
  • Android Developers – 2
  • Backend Developer – 1
  • UX/UI Engineer – 1
  • QA Engineer – 1
If you are building an MVP app, here is a stage-wise break-up of man-hours that you may expect to invest in the development process.
 
Stages MVP Hours Full Feature Hours
Business analysis + UX 50—70 80—100
Technical Specification 20—40 50—60
UI/UX 40—60 for each platform 80—120 for each platform
iOS/Android development 400—450 for each platform 500—700 for each platform
Backend 150—200 300—400
QA 50—60 for each platform 80—100 for each platform

With a limited set of features, you are looking at a time investment of approximately 1200 to 1450 man-hours, whereas if you go with a full-blown, feature-rich version, the man-hours may range anywhere between 1750 to 2400 hours.

Read Also : How To Choose an App Developer?

How Much Does It Cost To Create An App Like Zoom ?

Basis these two ranges, here is a rough cost estimate to create an app like Zoom.  
Country Average hourly rate MVP Full feature set
USA $80 $96 000 – 116 000 $140 000 – 192 000
UK $70 $ 84 000 – 101500 $ 122 500 – 168 000
Western Europe (Germany) $60 $ 72 000 – 87 000 $ 105 000 – 144 000
Eastern Europe (Ukraine) $30 $36 000 – 43 500 $52 500 -72 000
India $25 $ 30 000 – 36 250 $ 43 750 – 60 000
 
This is only an estimate and the actual cost will depend on several factors such as the final list of app features, the constitution of your app development team, their location, total man-hours put in the process, etc.
 
App Estimate

Final Thoughts

Zoom has set itself as a benchmark in the video conferencing app space. Having said there, there are still a lot of lee-ways available for more players to make their presence felt in the domain.

The benefits and subsequent returns to create a video chat app like zoom are crystal clear. Plus, the trends promise it a long life.

So, what are you waiting for? Start working on your idea today. Get in touch with our experienced consultants if you want to create an app like Zoom.

A wide variety of smartphones and mobile apps are easily available now and this has enabled individuals to manage their personal finance in a better manner.

It is no longer a challenging task at all and you avoid wasting paper altogether. All that you are required to do is run a simple app of your choice on your smartphone or tab. The records can be easily stored and backed up digitally.

They can be retrieved as and when required form anywhere. Having said that here is some information about the 11 best personal finance apps that you can consider using:

Mint You Need
PocketGuard Wally Next
Spendee Budget Dollarbird
Monefy Prism
Albert Goodbudget
Acorns

 

Read Also: How To Build A Personal Finance App

1) Mint

The app Mint helps you to organise your expenses so that they do not exceed your income. After downloading the app, you are required to link all of your credit and debit cards to your account on Mint.

Mint - personal finance apps

You can also link your savings, deposit and investment accounts for a comprehensive analysis. In addition to keeping track of your investments, the app provides forecasts on them.

Mint - rating - personal finance apps

Mint analyses your expenses and gives suggestions on saving money. Finally, Mint tracks your bills and even credit history.

Google PlayApp Store

 

2) You Need A Budget (YNAB)

YNAB can be downloaded on to both Android and iOS devices, which enables you to manage your spending well.

YNAB - personal finance apps

It allows you to employ the four main rules of budgeting: allocation of money for specific purposes, dividing large expenses into smaller ones, dynamically changing the budget depending on the situation, and not spending money as soon as it is received.

YNAB - rating - personal finance apps

All bank accounts and cards can be linked to YNAB and synchronize your account on the app with all your devices. Money transactions are presented as charts and graphs.

Google PlayApp Store

 

3) PocketGuard

PocketGuard is one of the best personal finance apps, available both on Google Play for Android devices and the App Store for iOS devices. If you are a person that likes the minimalistic modern design and want to control expenses, then this app is for you.

Pocket Guard - personal finance apps

You can add all your savings, loans, and investment details on to your PocketGuard account so as to get a clear picture of your financial status. The app analyses your fixed and regular expenses and you can use the information to prepare an expenses budget for one month or six months ahead.

Pocket Guard - rating - personal finance apps

 

If you set an expense limit for each item, you will receive notifications when you hit a certain level. Invoices are sent directly to the app and all money transfers are protected through special codes to ensure security.

Google PlayApp Store

 

4) Wally Next

If you are looking for a personal finance app that provides you with a better understanding of your financial status visually, then you must consider Wally Next. This app analyses presents all information related to your personal finance in the form of graphs and diagrams.

Wally Next - personal finance apps

It enables you to become more organised as you can add and manage all your accounts from one Dashboard. Wally Next has the ability to even take into account international payments, currency savings, and other transactions when analysing your wealth.

Wally Next - rating - personal finance apps

The app also allows you to keep track of your past payments and reminds you if there are recurring payments. Auto-payments set up option are also available. Wall Next is available for both iOS and Android phone users.

Google PlayApp Store

 

5) Spendee Budget and Money Tracker

‘Spendee Budget and Money Tracker’ allows you to not only manage all your credit/debit cards but also your accounts, deposits, and currency savings directly from your iOS or Android device.

Spendee - personal finance apps

The app carries out all analysis through full bank synchronization and allows you to link even your electronic wallets including PayPal and foreign accounts. The good news is that this modern application allows you to track even your cryptocurrency savings.

Spendee - rating - personal finance apps

Total expenses for a month can be easily determined on the closing day and you can set up payment alerts with reminders. It has info graphics capability which enables you to see all data. It also allows you to create separate wallets to allocate funds for special occasions.

Google PlayApp Store

 

Read Also: 10 Best Mobile Banking Apps

6) Dollarbird

Dollarbird’s unique design and functionality attracts attention immediately. Though it cannot be considered as a standard cost planner, this stylized calendar helps you to record all your costs and expenses.

Dollarbird - personal finance apps

These personal finance apps work on the basis of how frequently you spend money. To keep track of payments, you just have to enter them into this financial calendar. Dollarbird cannot be synchronised with any of your accounts and it keeps all records in the same currency.

Dollarbird - rating - personal finance apps

However, it is very easy to use. Moreover, all expenses can be easily classified quickly. Further, the app’s AI-based system provides smart hints. All data entered into one of your accounts through one device can be accessed from other devices as well.

Google PlayApp Store

 

7) Monefy

Have you ever felt that controlling your spending is difficult? Are your expenses unexpected and spontaneous? Do you want to end the same? Why not give the Monefy app a try on your device?

 

Monefy - personal finance apps

Apps enable you to keep a comprehensive record of your personal and business finance. You just have to add the details related to the cup of coffee, croissant, or business lunch you had at a café. As the app helps you to track the main expense items, you can quickly make a decision as to how you can reduce it.

Monefy - rating - personal finance apps

You can make use of your DropBox account to synchronize your devices and even add accounts of other people to a list of synchronized devices.

Google PlayApp Store

 

8) Prism

Prism is designed in such a way that it helps you to control and remind you of your ongoing payments such as utility bills, loans, and mortgages, and rentals.

Prism - personal finance apps

You can pay all of your bills, track your expenses as well as personal finances, and view balances in investment and savings accounts. The smartphone app allows you to track your loan and credit repayment dates, payment history, and the total amount due.

Prism - rating - personal finance apps

On the day of the reminder, you may make all payments for free. You will have to set up the notification system on your own but Prism’s exclusive offers even allow you to save some money.

Google PlayApp Store

 

9) Albert

If you find it difficult to accurately calculate your budget, then Albert is one of the best personal finance apps for you. The app does not allow you to keep your money idle. It determines as to what your expenses are and how much you can save without any compromise on your interests.

Albert - personal finance apps

The app transfers this amount to the Albert Savings account allocated to you. Albert performs the calculations with the help of patented and specialised algorithms which are highly effective.

Albert - rating - personal finance apps

Your basic finances are not impacted, but you will be able to accumulate an impressive amount over time. As the savings are insured, your funds will be safe. The reserved amount can be withdrawn at any time.

Google PlayApp Store

 

10) Goodbudget

Goodbudget is designed to remove the confusions associated with budgeting and make the whole process easier for you. The app makes available thematic “envelopes” just as in real life for you to keep apart money for specific needs.

Goodbudget - personal finance apps

The payments can be made only from the specified envelope. This allows you to exercise control over your expenses. The app also allows you to stop spending before the allocated money is completely wiped out.

 

Goodbudget - rating - personal finance apps

The app’s free version makes available only 10 envelopes. The subscription version enables you to create an unlimited number of envelopes, synchronise up to five devices, and budget expenses in advance.

Google PlayApp Store

 

11) Acorns

If you believe investing is risky, it is not true. Acorn was developed to reduce the risk of you losing your money. The app invests your funds without any participation from your side. It takes money from the daily purchases you make and it will not be visible when you track your costs.

 

Acorns - personal finance apps

The amount taken is very small and it does not create any major impact on your overall financial situation. It also allows you to make disposable investments on your own.

Acorns - rating - personal finance apps

All money is insured there is no risk involved. Acorns will show to you that you are not required to have huge amounts for investments.

Google PlayApp Store

 

Read Also: 10 Best Stock Trading Apps

Conclusions

In conclusion, all of these personal finance apps are available for both Android and iOS devices.

Your income and expenses may change every month, but you can keep your finances stable if you enjoy a steady income and have to take care of a few regular expenses.

It’s the New Year time and we all are in verge of getting back for health and fitness goals for the year.

Every New Year it is no wonder that we hit gym and promise all good things we would do in the rest of the year to keep us healthy and fit.

While many of this rings away, we still try and manage to get back in track and attempt to work on it. In UK, the increasing number of apps for health and fitness are further encouraging us to work on our fitness targets.

 

The overwhelming number is making us confused to choose the right app which may fit us and work with us for similar goal. Hence we all are on the same board, looking for health, physical and mental well-being.

This article will help all of us to see what are the best health and fitness apps in UK this year to achieve our goals.

Here is a list of best health and fitness apps in UK for this year.
Strava Fiit
Runkeeper Cyclemeter
MyFitnessPal SWORKIT
Intervals One You Couch to 5K
Nike+ Run Club Lifesum
1. Strava: Best for sharing activities

Strava is popular with over ten million users who work and track around one billion activities. It helps to track our daily activities and share the records with other users.

Features
  • Share the runs and rides with users
  • Congratulate other’s efforts
  • Ask for advice and communicate with others
  • Compete with friends and rivals
  • Simple interface

Download : Android, iOS

2. Fiit: App for Exercise classes

One of the best app for giving a video of exercise classes when you are at home is Fiit. With the several subscription-based apps floating around which can provide you gym based experience at home, Fiit is best to make their users attracted to this app.

Features
  • Classes are broken down as per duration
  • Type of classes category for ease
  • Difficult to easy levels
  • App pairs with others to count reps and duration
  • Can compete with oneself
  • Excellent trainers

Download : Android, iOS

3. Runkeeper: Best for tracking one’s run

This is one of the popular fitness apps  in UK for tracking one’s run in detail. While this app is free, there also exists a pro version which costs around £7.99 per month.

Features
  • Clear and easy interface
  • Strong user base with 50 million
  • Weekly training plans available in the pro version

Download : Android, iOS

4. Cyclemeter: App for Tracking Cycling

Cycling has been a growing trend and phenomenon these days. Cyclemeter is one such app which helps to arrange data available for cyclists through a smartphone app. It helps track our rides easily and with clear detail.

Features
  • Stat, map, and graph features available
  • Easy user face
  • Can sync rides with other apps like strava easily
  • The free version, pro available from £9.99 per year.

Download : Android, iOS

5. MyFitnessPal: App for counting calories

While there are several apps floating around the digital platform to count calories in our day to day life, MyFitnessPal exceeds all of our expectations with several features and database availability.

Features
  • Wide database of foods
  • Easy to log meals
  • Tracks calorie intake and macros
  • Helps effortlessly undertake healthy diet
  • Free version available, a pro from £7.99 a month

 

Download : Android, iOS

 

6. SWORKIT: App for bodyweight workouts and guidance

One of the most prominent apps for body weight workouts and exercises is SWORKIT. It has a variety of list of exercises which helps to choose while deciding what to focus on.

Features
  • Several body weight exercises from cardio, yoga to stretching
  • Exercises for all parts of the body
  • Onscreen aminations available to guide us through a workout
  • Lasts from five minutes to one hour
  • Can also build one’s own session from the beginning
  • Charged every month, from £3.99 every month

Download : Android, iOS

7. Intervals: Best app for building customized interval workouts

In case you are the one who enjoys detailed and interval workouts then this app is for you. It helps track all such activities and workouts once you begin to do.

Features
  • Plan the sessions through intervals and track through timers
  • Specific details on every moment you do
  • Simple and well designed
  • The free version is available, pro features available from £2.99

Download : Android, iOS

8. One You Couch to 5K: App for beginner runners

With several apps floating around online which may help you in the beginner stages of running, couch to 5k is that app which you need and can get addicted to.

Features
  • Free completely, not paid
  • Plan and customize individual training sessions clearly
  • Sessions narrated by real individuals apart from the coaches
  • Makes you interested and hooked into it
  • No paid features at all and hidden costs

Download : Android, iOS

9. Nike+ Run Club: App for Guided Running and Workout Sessions

In among the several running apps, the nike+ run club offers features which can help us get hooked to this platform. This is recommended by several runs and fitness lovers.

Features
  • Audio guided runs from Nike coaches and athletes directly
  • Personalized training plan for your goal
  • Gives you fitness advice
  • Reminds about sessions and can customize plans as you wish
  • Free completely, no hidden costs

Download : Android, iOS

10. Lifesum: The Diet Planning App

Now comes the celebrated Lifesum app, which sets apart from several of other diet apps through several special features which can be customized and individualized as we wish to.

Features
  • Smooth design and interface
  • Set a goal- be it lose weight or gain weight
  • Track of every diet and exercise
  • Recommendations to progress and reach the target
  • Integrates with other apps and their interface and you won’t miss any activity
  • Has a gold version which can help with recipes and meal plans
  • Gives you all nutritional details

Download : Android, iOS

Conclusion

With several such apps floating around the internet for promoting health and fitness, the above mentioned apps successfully top the list among the best recommendations in the UK.

These are easy to handle yet gives you an array of features which can keep you hooked to them constantly.

Not only does the fitness enthusiasts love these apps, but the layman also promotes them due to the way they encourage us to take up activities and keep ourselves healthy.

They further help to promote a healthier and happy lifestyle to everyone.

India is well-known for its IT industry. It is not surprising to see IT solutions providers – from startups to tech giants having their offices in all prominent locations through the country. The country is a favourite outsourcing destination of businesses across the globe for its cost-effective, quick-responding, high-quality services that meet client requirements.

Talking about IT solutions, app development is one of the fields India contributes largely to. India has one of the largest numbers of app development companies and developers. According to reports, the country’s app development industry is predicted to generate revenue of $286 million this year, compared to the $133 billion in 2021 – a definite proof that app development industry in India is flourishing.

There are many cities in India that can undoubtedly be nicknamed the country’s “IT hubs.” Bengaluru – the “Silicon Valley” of India tops the list, followed by Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Delhi NCR – Noida and Gurgaon, Ahmedabad and Kolkata. The companies in these tech cities provide a variety of IT services – app development included.

In this blog, we give you a glimpse of the top app development companies in Noida. The city is home to branch offices of some of the renowned tech giants – Microsoft, Oracle Corporation and Adobe Systems. Let us see the app development companies located in the city and the services they offer.

Read Also : Top Mobile App Development Companies in Manchester

Appinventiv Mobulous Technologies
InnovationM Resourcifi Inc.
Ksolves India Limited Appsinvo Pvt. Ltd.
Vipra Damco Solutions
PureSoftware Pvt. Ltd. ChawTech Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
OnGraph Technologies Appventurez
TechGropse Pvt Ltd. Codestore Technologies Pvt Ltd
Binmile Technologies

1. Appinventiv

Appinventiv is an award-winning organization with one of its locations in Noida. It provides innovative technology solutions to its clients, including startups and Fortune 500 companies. The company that started as a team of 10 members in 2015 is at its strongest today with 1000+ tech experts, engineers and professionals onboard, helping businesses in their digital transformation journey.

Appinventiv has over 1000 successfully completed projects to its credit. Through its services, that includes full-cycle software development, ideation and design, research and development and more, the company aims to help businesses and individual keep pace with the changing technology and related innovations.

2. Mobulous Technologies

Mobulous Technologies is an app development company with locations in the USA and India – in the city of Noida. Founded in 2013 with the aim of providing the best optimized app-based solutions to startups, small and medium sized business, the company has so far developed over 300 native Android and iOS apps across different domains.

Mobulous Technologies is known for providing innovative applications that have helped many businesses begin their digital entrepreneurship journey. The company provides a variety of services that include app development, web development and web design with the aim of helping businesses achieve maximum profit.

Read Also : Top Mobile App Development Companies in UK

3. InnovationM

InnovationM is an app development company based in the Indian city of Noida and the USA. The company constitutes a brilliant team of developers and software engineers who work toward building innovative software solutions to small and midsize businesses (SMBs) and large enterprises.

InnovationM provides a variety of services including web development, app development and UI/UX design. They also specialize in creating custom mobile apps across iOS and Android platforms and involving latest technologies like Blockchain, cloud technology, etc. The company’s main focus is on providing end-to-end solution development, which involves product development and custom app development across web, mobile, middleware and server back-end.

4. Resourcifi Inc.

Resourcifi is an outsourcing company based in the USA and India that specializes in app development services apart from staff augmentation and white-label solutions. The company believes in adapting to the varied business requirements and adapting the latest tools and technologies to create robust and innovative business solutions.

Resourcifi has a magnificent team of experienced team members who have proved their niche in their respective domains and have managed to provide even highly robust and complex business solutions with ease. Through its services that include design, development, testing and digital marketing, the company aims to help startups, SMBs, ISVs and enterprises in their digital transformation journey.

5. Ksolves India Limited

Ksolves India Limited is another award-winning software development company located in Noida, India. The company has over 8 years of industry experience – its team of over 300 developers successfully completing 550+ projects for clients of all sizes, ranging from startups to SMBs.

Through its services, Ksolves aims to simplify the IT outsourcing experience and well as creating powerful solutions that help businesses get through their digital transformation journey with ease. The company is publicly listed in the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

Read Also : Top 100 Mobile App Development Companies in UK

6. Appsinvo Pvt. Ltd.

Appsinvo is a leading app development company located in Noida, India. The company focuses on creating implement technology solutions that help boost the productivity and efficiency of businesses, thus helping improve their overall performance and guiding them towards success.

Appsinvo has expertise in providing a variety of services, including app development and digital marketing across different industries. Through their services, the company aims at helping their clients stand out among the crowd and adding to the investments in the field of app development involving innovative technology.

7. Vipra

Vipra is a tech consulting and solutions provider headquartered in Noida, India. The company offers variety of creative and strategic services through which they help transform businesses in terms of performance and success.

Vipra makes use of the expertise of its team, their innovative ideas and creativity to build exciting solutions that prove helpful to businesses. Their forte includes app development, web design and marketing, where they leverage the latest technologies and tools for the results that go beyond expectations of the clients. They not only use the best technology stack but also prioritize the needs and requirements of their client businesses in creating the best possible solutions.

8. Damco Solutions

Damco Solutions is a tech solutions and IT Services provider located in the USA, the UK and different cities of India, including Noida. The company is known for its deep industry knowledge, innovative IT solutions and services, expertise in the latest technologies and tools, well-planned development and testing processes – all which make clients, from around the world, trust them in their projects.

Damco Solutions have a strong and flexible team who are available for both onshore and offshore projects and can adapt to any project environment with ease. They provide a variety of services that include app development, automation and product engineering. Through their services, Damco helps businesses to be capable of standing ahead in the highly competitive market and find their way to success.

9. PureSoftware Pvt. Ltd.

PureSoftware is a software development company that provides tailor-made software products and services to businesses. They focus on leveraging their domain capabilities and expertise across difference industries and platforms in providing the best and innovative solutions to their clients.

PureSoftware provides a wide array of development services that include mobile app development, web and software development services, involving the latest technologies, such as big data, robotic process automation, artificial intelligence, and IoT. Their team of 500+ members have researchers, developers, and designers with expertise in their own areas of specialization. The company swears by providing innovative and cost-effective solutions for businesses to enhance their performance.

Read Also : Top Mobile App Development Companies in Los Angeles

10. ChawTech Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

ChawTech Solutions is an innovative IT solutions provider located in Noida. The company creates creative and innovative solutions that match business requirements to its clients with the aim of driving them towards success. Started in 2016 as a two-member team, ChawTech now has a strong team of 70+ well-experienced IT professionals who are behind the best solutions that the company provides.

ChawTech solutions’ services include app development, animation and digital promotions. Through the services, the company aims to reach the pinnacle of the IT industry, while ensuring that all needs and requirements of the clients are fulfilled.

11. OnGraph Technologies

OnGraph Technologies is an end-to-end product development company with branches in different cities across the world, including Noida. The company aims at making the lives of humans easy through its AI-backed innovative and sustainable business solutions. They believe in creating and managing long-term relationships with clients and business partners, while building cost-effective and high-quality app development services.

The services provided by OnGraph Technologies include mobile and web app development as well as development of solutions based on emerging technologies. Through their services, they deliver business solutions that reflect their expertise, transparency and customer-oriented approach.

12. Appventurez

Appventurez is a leading mobile app development company with one of its location in Noida, India. The company focuses on providing end-to-end tech-oriented solutions and services to businesses – big and small with the aim of enhancing their overall business lifecycle. The company has completed building over 139 applications across different domains for its clients.

Appventurez has a team of over 250 professionals that involve Android, Xamarin and cross- platform developers who work behind the different services the company provides – strategy, design and development with major focus on client requirements. The company believes in creating long-lasting relationships with their clients through their high-quality services.

Read Also : How Much Does it Cost Create an Mobile App

13. TechGropse Pvt Ltd.

TechGropse is a top-notch app development company based in USA, India and UAE that helps startups, businesses and large enterprises meet their digital requirements through their business solutions. Through their solutions, the company ensures that the requirements of the clients and the end-users of their solutions are fulfilled.

TechGrope’s services include custom and web app development and also the development of emerging technologies and mobile games. The ultimate aim of the company is to build the finest app solutions that help the clients meet the varying and complex needs of the changing world. In their service, TechGropse make sure that their clients are involved and that all their requirements are met right from the planning stage until the final product is handed over to the clients.

14. Codestore Technologies Pvt Ltd

Codestore Technologies is an app development company with locations in Canada, USA and India. The company provides flawless, cost-effective mobility solutions to businesses – big and small, ranging from startups to Fortune 100 companies. The company has so far delivered over 200 applications to its clients with the aim of helping them reach their business goals in a faster manner.

What makes Codestore Technologies stand out is their tech stack selection as well as customer-centric approach that contribute to building solutions that ensure the best user experience. The company’s services include ideation and design, app development, software testing and more.

15. Binmile Technologies

Binmile Technologies is a custom software and app development company that helps businesses in their digital transformation. The company provides its innovative solutions to organizations – startups, SMBs and enterprises across different industries.

Binmile provides a wide range of business solutions and services that include app development, quality assurance and product engineering to name a few. Through the solutions, the company intends to provide technological advancements to its clients by understanding their requirements.

Being a prominent IT hub in India, Noida contains many more app development companies that provide the best innovative technology-based business solutions that help businesses turn to digitalization and also to keep their own clients satisfied.

Like we said before, India provides a lot of options for app development companies and the above list is about the companies in Noida alone. If you are looking to hire an app development company, make sure that they are experienced in the kind of projects you have, provide cost-effective services and also keep your business requirements as priority.

As Google research confirms, the UK is one of the largest strong holds for mobile app development activities across the entire Europe and offers a revenue-rich, business-friendly market where high-quality mobile apps run their regime.

UK enjoys the bragging rights of generating more than a third of total revenues from smartphone software in European continent with almost fifth of total European smartphone applications developers located in UK and more than 30% clustered in London, Manchester and the south east part.

After the US which is a top leader in technology sector, the UK is believed to be the second most sought-after tech center and vies fiercely with London’s major European technology rivals such asParis, Munich, Berlin, Moscow and Madrid.

In the following passages, we will delve a little more into the prospects and real-time opportunities presented UK mobile app development market.

Read Also: App Development Cost – Design, Development, Deployment

 

UK is a digital powerhouse

Due to unbelievable scope of bright career and lush landscape offered by UK app market, it comes as no surprise that developers and designers swarm to UK’s ever-dynamic tech industry, its massive income potential and work satisfaction.

Google’s report also reveals that nearly 8000 companies are involved in app development business with approximately 380,000people getting employed for IT-related positions.

Based on the market’s expansive nature,Google forecasts 30,000 more relevant jobs will be created in upcoming 12 months. No wonder why start-ups tend to appear in Cambridge, Edinburgh and Birmingham.

The research by Vision Mobile, the market analysis firm, estimates that smartphone application sales will exceed 4 billion this year and the resultant revenues is predicted to reach £31bn by 2025.

Sponsored by Tech City UK, the research also suggests that while nearly half of UK-based app developers and designers make great income from mobile app development efforts, a fifth of them does not generate any income from apps as they enjoy the process as a hobby.

The UK industry has beneficial close links with US tech leaders and UK government also supports the start-up economy as they initiate incentives and investments to encourage more resilient digital ecosystem.

Revenue of the mobile app economy in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2013 to 2025 (in billion GBP)

The digital industry drives UK’s future economy

Joanna Shields, the chair of Tech City UK considers UK as a digital powerhouse across many technology sectors and believes that the digital industry is driving the UK’s economic future, prevailing in Europe’s app development scenario.

If we cast a realistic glance at smart phone usage in 2016, 91% people aged 18-44 owned a smartphone, which amounts to 21 million phones. Statista further estimates that 2017 alone had nearly 42.4 million Smartphone users in UK, which is enough to indicate the boost in a year.

These numbers demonstrate a strong evidence that UK is leading the way in European market in the domain of app development, making it a lush place for a mobile app development company to grow and dominate the digital market.

UK app development costs

There is little reason for an entrepreneur or SMBs to be woeful when it comes to having a mobile app software developed in the UK continent especially after Brexit phenomenon.

Usually, the process of cost calculation for a UK-based mobile app development company touches on several factors including:

  • Maximum availability
  • Accessibility of resources
  • Fastest Turnaround time
  • Competitive talents
  • Promise of High-quality features

UK offers the world’s best app developers and costs that border on the global average.The price tags for native and cross-platform app development are quite different with cross-platform tools offering combined backend architecture and reusable code with independent native APIs.

On a global platform, the iOS mobile app development fee stays within the bracket of $28,000 and $50000 whereas for Android it varies from $20000 to $45000. For Windows phones, the cost may touch the mark of $18,000.

App development costs per hour in UK

As Statista reports, For Android app development, the approximate figure varies from the average $32 to nearly $167 per hour depending on the length of the project.

For iOS, it is $47 to $175 or even a little higher, which is further debatable to project size, expectations and complexity.

The per hour amount developers or a company charges hits the all-time highs globally as the demand for advanced features evolves and quality improves.

mobile app development market

Source: statista.com

The reason for the high rates is that UK’s digital stage is globally popular for its myriad versed developers and exceptional talents.

Another parallel fact that contributes to stiff price rates is that many originally US companies operate from UK and have their offices there.

Read Also: Reasons Why Enterprises Need Mobile Application

Popular apps in UK over the years

From 2016 down to 2018, the most popular mobile apps – which are also the most used –continue to switch its place from one spot to another though more or less these apps have commonly remained popular among the audience over years.

Some of these apps are:

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Gmail
  • WhatsApp
  • Chrome
  • Facebook Messenger
  • YouTube
  • Twitter
  • Google Maps
  • Snapchat
  • Apple Music
  • Amazon
  • Ebay
  • Pandora
  • Netflix
  • Spotify
  • Pinterest

This list is not presented in its absolute order of popularity as it is subject to variable factors including public interest, sources information, play store downloads and digital market analysis.

However, there is no dispute that in 2018 these apps ruled the world of UK mobile app users and further encouraged Android and iOS app development.

Being popular for over a decade in the market, Facebook still blossoms on number one with stupendous improvements introduced every now and then.

On the other hand, owned by Facebook, WhatsApp is massively worshiped among UK users and survived the toughest competitions.

It turned out that British smart phone users will access their favourite apps 12 times on a typical day, spending average 17 minutes each day using it.

App Trends that dominate the UK market

The UK app development market is incessantly dominated by the following mobile app trends:

1) AR and VR

While VR (virtual reality) establishes an all-new reality, AR enhances its digital actualization with a fusion of virtual and real-world experience.

By 2020, both AR and VR are predicted to generate $150 billion in revenue, which spawns a more potential market for applications based on these trending technologies.

Online businesses such as Amazon Go have already disrupted the retail sector with it.

2) Artificial Intelligence

AI is the phenomenon redefining many conventional model of mobile app development industry especially with Virtual Personal Assistants, intelligent chat apps, automation, IoT solutions and more.

As stated in the latest report by International Data Corporation (IDC), the AI Technology is likely to create over $47 billion in revenue in 2020.

3) Internet of Things (IoT)

When seen hand-in-hand with Data Analysis and AI, IoT network is going to devise a unique seamless experience with automated functions enabling communication as well as data sharing with mobile platforms and backend system.

4) Android Instant Apps

The emerging popularity and interest in Android Apps is mainly due to its ability to allow users to access apps without installing them.

These apps have been a curious trend in 2018 and their quick, instant access makes them even more interesting for consumers of on-demand apps.

Choosing the best from the pool of UK developers

This section revolves around the small things you should consider while selecting the best mobile app development company from the existing market options.

You can conduct a thorough research on your own and refer several online marketplaces where information on app developers is generously available.

During the interactive interview phase, you can think of learning about the skills and experience of developers while they try to get the grasp of what your business is about. You can meditate on the following:

  • Portfolio: It shows off almost every aspect of their app development capabilities, the number of apps built, versatile power, industrial insight and relevant experience in your industry.
  • Reviews and recommendations: You can check the prominent reviews from industry leaders on specific app developers or ask them to recommend a company that has helped them drive success to their business.

Read Also: 11 Easy Steps to Create a Mobile Application

Bottom Line

There is no contest in saying that UK app development scene is glittering with stellar talents and achievers, with many big success stories are bred by its digital market.

UK app developers have retained a strong global reputation of delivering exquisite apps with advanced features and functionalities.

By now you know enough about the promises UK mobile app development market offers and how to approach and hire the agile teams of developers.

Make sure you plan ahead to instigate a project with them and share a clear vision of the mobile app.

When it comes to choosing a right career path, generally there are three things aspirants look for- decent pay, job satisfaction, and superior growth & learning opportunities in the future. Well, there is no such rule actually. For some, challenging profiles could be a priority and some might get attracted to flexible working hours.

Even in smart phones, Apple leads others, as usual. iPhones and iPads are arguably ruling the mobile industry and iOS is the operating system. Hence, being a master at iOS app development can secure a bright future for you as they are high in demand and every tech companies welcome brilliant and highly skilled iOS developers with open hands.

Here, in this post, we have discussed 9 skills that an iOS developer must have.

Read Also: How Much Does It Cost To Hire An App Developer?

1. The Swift 3.0 programming language

Just like a cricketer should know how to catch, you need to know Swift 3.0 if you want to be an iOS developer. It is a programming language that is owned by Apple to develop iOS mobile applications.

The Swift 3.0 is the universal language that is used for all iOS mobile app developments. At the initial level, you don’t need to go deep into it, you need to have a basic understanding of the language and its functionalities such as:

  • Basic Syntax
  • Classes, Inheritance & Initialization
  • Objective-C Interoperability
  • Control Flow (If and Switch Statements)
  • Error Handling
  • Optionals

2. Apple’s Xcode IDE

It is another thing that you should be the master at. Xcode IDE is the real reason that makes the app excellent and offers magnificent user experience. It is said that it takes from concept to code to customers.

It is highly integrated with Cocoa and Cocoa Touch frameworks and it is a primary environment to build apps for various Apple devices such as Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch.

It also helps a developer to enable different Apple service such as Passbook and Game Changer too. For an iOS developer, you need to have a thorough understanding of Apple’s Xcode IDE.

Read Also: How to Hire React Native App Developers in India

3. Spatial Reasoning

Spatial reasoning is one of the key aspects of developing an app. It is all about thinking from an app user’s point of view and how a user will interact and use the app. You need to think out-of-the-box to make the end user feel good and satisfied while using the app.

 

By thinking logically as a user, you will be able to design an interface and add functionalities that are more accessible, comprehensive and useful for the user. You need to envision it to make more meaningful and useful apps.

4. Design Guidelines

What Apple users love about different Apple devices is their intuitiveness that literally lures them to buy Apple products. To attain this, there are specific guidelines and defined procedures to follow to create iOS apps. .

During your training program at an iOS app development company, you need to learn how to build such phenomenal apps while sticking to the Apple design guidelines. Once you have developed this art, you will be able to create miracles.

Read Also: How Much Does Outsourcing App Development Cost?

5. UI and UX design experience

Both UI and UX is related to the design of a mobile app or a web app but functions slightly vary. UI is based on theb look of the app and UX depends on how the user uses the app. Effective execution of UI/UX design in the making of a mobile app can create a drastic change to its entire look which inturn engages more users.

Thus, an iOS developer should be well trained on design concepts and should have the capability to produce intriguing and appealing UI/UX design for any mobile app they create.

6. Apple Human Interface Guidelines

You should be well-versed with Apple Human Interface Guidelines that will make your iOS app developing journey smooth and simple. These guidelines help an app developer to come up with apps that have superior visuals, maximum impact and reach and stupendous user experience.

7. Networking

Get familiar with JSON- JavaScript Object Notation to understand how data are sent and received over web or networking. It is a simple and standard format for data interchange and being an iOS developer, you need to learn it.

Read Also: Top 11 iOS App Development Companies in India

8. Core Data

For a user, it is quite frustrating when the app they use frequently, does not save the data and they have to start from scratch every single time they use the app. Core Data removes this problem by storing data on Apple’s devices.

9. Grand Central Dispatch

We all love apps that are simultaneous in nature. Generally, an app does many tasks simultaneously such as gathering data from the internet, understanding human inputs, displaying data and many more.

For Apple devices, it is actually Grand Central Dispatch that makes it happen. It is also termed as GCD and it gives users a seamless and smooth experience.

Conclusion

So if you want to be a successful professional in iOS app development, aforementioned concepts will work wonders for you.

Remember, iOS developer is not just a mere app developer, they are much more than that. At every phase of the app development, you will be playing a crucial role. From requirement gathering for client’s business needs to planning and development stage to designing a seamless and scalable user interface to coding and integrations, it is your responsibility to ensure that everything goes like a smooth sailing.

 

There are so many online technical classes available that offer high-quality and thoroughly iOS app development training. You can enroll for it and be a master at the craft.

Read Also: How To Create a Marketplace Mobile App?

The advent of Blockchain technology has brought advantages to many industries and at the same time some disadvantages too. Being a decentralized digital ledger system, it has a considerable difference between traditional centralized databases. This difference is visible in their operations too.

The blog tries to explore blockchain technology and its key advantages and disadvantages.

What is Blockchain Technology?

“The blockchain is an indestructible digital ledger for keeping track of economic transactions which can be programmed to maintain not only financial transactions but virtually everything that has value.” Don & Alex Tapscott, authors Blockchain Revolution 2016.

Now this means that this decentralized ledger is not controlled by any financial institution or government for that matter. It can be accessed by everyone who has a good internet connection.

Other than virtual currencies, there are many companies such as messaging apps, critical infrastructure security, ride-sharing, cloud storage, etc. are harnessing the power of blockchain technology.

Advantages of Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology came into markets in recent times, but it has witnessed many industries gaining great advantages with it. Below are the advantages of blockchain technology that proved its significance and growth.

#1. Trustworthy Distributed Systems

The traditional transaction process has an intermediary party like a bank, credit card, or other services. It comprises an extra charge in the form of a transaction fee. The major advantage of Blockchain technology here is every transaction made is public. The overall cost is also reduced to a great extent.

The distributed network nodes of the blockchain technology verify every transaction stage and replace the need for intermediaries. The process where miners constantly verify all kinds of transactions round the clock is called mining.

Thus, blockchain technology never fails to monitor transaction aspects and almost impenetrable to fraud. Eliminating intermediaries will reduce the risks of relying on a single organization and cut down costs too.

#2. No Government Interference

Blockchain technology can manage the major systems controlled by existing governments more efficiently. It can create, store, and proceed with information on every single transaction at all times.

The government or any financial institution has zero control over virtual currencies that are based on blockchain technology. Government interference has often led to the devaluation of various currencies and a good example of that is the latest Zimbabwean Dollar.

Regardless of the nation and currency, one of the top problems, when governments interfere much with the currencies, they end up either with inflation or hyperinflation by printing too much currency in a short time. As the blockchain is a decentralized online ledger, it’s next to impossible for governments to interfere and take any action on cryptocurrencies.

#3. Increased Stability

One of the major advantages of Blockchain technology is its stability. Companies now rely on these systems that have higher retention in their services. Once data is saved in the digital ledger, it is hard to remove or change it. Such a stable system can make processes easier than before.

The data saved on Blockchain is visible and accessible by the people who have permissioned access. The accuracy and paperless system enable more transparency throughout the transaction process. Tracing back previous records is also easy as you can conduct audit rials in Bitcoin transactions.

There is no need of creating multiple ledgers for different members, a single stable ledger is distributed among the members with the least fraudulent activities.

Read Also : 10 Best IoT App Development Tools

#4. Instant Payments at Reduced Costs

The transactions done via Blockchain is rapid but at a reduced overall cost. The traditional paper-heavy processes of transaction stages are effortlessly replaced by single record-keeping of Blockchain. Without any third-party interventions, the process is completed well with trustworthy dealings.

There is no elaborate documentation process and transactions are done with the least number of errors. Cryptocurrencies help in streamlining processes quicker and at reduced costs.

#5. Improved Security & Financial Efficiency

As mentioned above, the blockchain process is quicker and reliable compared to that of traditional procedures. The main advantage of blockchain is that there is no third-party intervention which leads to greater financial efficiency. Such a system will let users enjoy money and time-saving transaction process.

People will be dependent on blockchains for not relying on a single organization for their entire transaction process. Once a transaction is agreed upon, the system offers the information to multiple open networks instead of a single server like in traditional transaction systems. This will prevent hackers from fraudulent cyber crimes as the transaction is openly distributed.

Disadvantages of Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology is indeed a godsend for the now world. Studies suggest that there is some kind of attacks happening against block technology today. Let’s look at the disadvantages of Block technology.

#1. Private Key Issues

Blockchain addresses are made up of individual private keys. That is, each person with permitted access has his/her private key to make their operations. Cryptography deals with public-key blockchain processes. This public key address is shared with individuals where they access via their private keys as said above.

If the person loses their private key, the process turns into a failure. They can do nothing to save their money or further transaction procedures. This private key is something like managing our bank. So, issues related to the private key makes blockchain technology a big failure.

#2. Extremely Volatile

The cryptocurrencies that are based on blockchain technology are highly volatile. Of course, one good example of that is the fluctuating prices of Bitcoin that vary each day.

One of the reasons behind that this volatility is that the decentralized blockchain technology and the virtual currencies are new characters to the market.

This means that the companies, governments, and other groups adopting or not adopting them will affect the volatility surely. This is a huge drop and this kind of volatility is bothering people who are thinking of investing in Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency for that matter.

#3. Issues in Scalability

Many allege that Bitcoins are the best currency type and thus the Blockchain technology too. Still, it is said that only about seven transactions can happen per second over this network. As we discussed, the system is distributed, and verifying transactions under each of the nodes is essential.

When we consider the scalability issues, the number of transactions per node is limited. Sometimes users may have to consume several hours to complete their procedures.

It is said that increasing the number of active users according to blockchain’s transaction speed is not practical. Classic banking procedures are more rapid and scalable than that of blockchain.

#4. Security Issues

It is said that Blockchain technology offers maximum security compared to all other transaction methodologies. Still, it is not completely secure and research says about Blockchain technology faces a 51% attack.

51% attack is sometimes so critical that the intruders can gain control over the system for sure. Such a network will be affected by double-spending too.

The security threat is aggravated by the anonymous nature of this bitcoin system. Anonymity is appreciated, but identifying culprits attempting illicit transactions is difficult here. Less Transparency is a downside of blockchain technology so far.

#5. Data Modification is Difficult

In blockchain technology, it is hard to add or modify data once after it is recorded. It is considered as the major disadvantages and advantages of blockchain technology. Considering its downside, the process of data modification needs rewriting codes and indulges in an extensive process.

Too much stability can sometimes adversely affect systems. The major disadvantage of blockchain technology here is irreversible records and its demanding modification process.

Read Also : Top 10 IoT Trends to Expect in Future

Closing Thoughts

Some believe that it will help in creating cryptocurrencies which will become a potential rival to precious metals while others believe that it is soon going to burst like a bubble and nothing more.

Blockchain technology has both advantages and disadvantages like two sides of a coin. Many mainstream sectors are enjoying the perks of such a robust and reliable technology so far. But some consider the downsides of technology and are thinking about implementing the technology. In the end, It’s all up to you.

Mobile applications are  becoming a popular solution for several layers of issues and concerns across all types of industries not just in the UK, but worldwide.

Why?

Because mobile apps offer businesses a platform to operate their organizations seamlessly and smoothly. The applications provide clients with top-notch user experience and a channel for easy connectivity with the business.

Unquestionably, the proof lies in the pudding. More and more companies are moving towards the mobile app phase. This, in turn, presents the businesses to build a brand name for them in the process by supporting it with a mobile application.

Importance of Building Construction Apps

importance of construction mobile apps

Construction businesses typically fall under the category of conventional companies. However, that does imply that business owners in the construction industry are not modern and forward -looking. Business owners have highlighted a strong desire to build a strong foundation for the companies in the cloud.

Read Also: Impact of Mobile Apps in Oil & Gas Industry

What does it mean by  a strong foundation for the companies in the cloud?

It means that they should be using the appropriate technology to promote their business. For instance, the UK is a major construction market, globally with new projects upcoming all year round.

In spite of such a rapid growth rate, why is the construction industry in the UK experiencing such huge financial and time loss?

One of the primary reasons is the lack of efficiency and productivity.

An online study says that 93% of the construction businesses believe that digitization is going to be the main influencer over their operational processes in the foreseeable future. Moreover, it was seen that 36% of construction firms use five or more mobile business apps to complete their projects.

It is not surprising to see that mobile apps are right at the top when it comes to technology adoption for the construction industry. In a survey conducted with 600 construction professionals from both medium and small sized firms, more than 80% were strong in their opinion that mobile technology is a high priority. The key benefits lay in deploying mobile apps to the fullest in the construction industry.

Role of Mobile Apps in the Construction Industry

benefits of mobile apps in construction industry

The role of construction managers is stressful and hectic. . They have to keep track of their teams and sub-contractors, monitor their progress  daily, check their schedules, equipment, quotes and invoicing, bylaws, hours and more.

All of these construction managers today have easy access to smartphones and tablets. This implies that there is a great opportunity to enhance efficiency and productivity, minimize costs, and fast-track project timelines with the integration of appropriate mobile solutions.

Take a look at how mobile apps are important to the construction industry.

1) Enhancing Workforce Efficiency

With access to powerful mobile applications, it is now convenient for construction managers to carry out processes like monitoring, scheduling, and authorization which also increases transparency and efficiency of the operational procedures. By using custom-designed apps in the mechanism, pacifies the overall process of delivery via a faster communication channel.

Mobile apps are  extremely useful, especially in the context of supplier management and scheduling. Additionally, mobile apps are now a paper replacement that leads to a clutter-free workplace. The result – productivity levels are significantly optimized.

2) Maintaining Desired Safety Levels

The construction industry is not free of hazards. Mobile applications can be very handy as it has the power to mitigate these high hazards that are related to the sector. Also, construction managers can keep track of the training sessions using mobile platforms. By complying with all regulatory guidelines, the level of safety for the workers also improves simultaneously.

Mobile apps prove to be important in the construction sector. The apps permit instant reporting of injuries and safety concerns. Plus, the user with the authoritative power  can handle such issues with utmost care which bolters regulatory compliant as and when required.

3) Running Projects on Time

Completion of projects within designated timeline is of paramount importance, especially in the construction industry. But for most construction businesses it is one of the biggest challenges. Frequent delays often lead to rework resulting in cost and time escalations.

With dedicated mobile apps for the construction sector, managers can now organize and sync all of their operational activities and work as per their pre-defined schedules. This also helps in optimizing all available resources.

4) Better Communication Process

The absence of a robust communication system can contribute a lot to complicating things in the construction sector. The gaps in communication between the managers and team members can result in misunderstandings.

A construction mobile app seamlessly connects all necessary stakeholders and gives a complete overview of the project and the communication process. However, you must maintain transparency through increased visibility and involvement in the process fostering better relationships between all involved parties and stakeholders.

5) Mobile Apps Can Boost Productivity

A recent study found that a construction worker spends around 30% of their time on core tasks. Unimportant jobs such as cleaning up, transporting the materials, keeping the site organized, etc. take up the remaining time.

Mobile apps here can optimize the work of construction managers by channelizing their energies in productive areas only. IoT and other updated technologies can be connected to mobile apps so that team managers can keep track of and monitor operations from a single platform. The applications can help in the management of all relevant domains in the logistical chain.

6) Real-Time Analytics

All industries now depend on real-time business intelligence and big data to gain insights. The construction sector is no different. Robust construction mobile applications are in demand since reporting is a daily activity in this business segment.

With easy access to apps and the smartphone, real time analytics is available to managers at their fingertips. What happens is that everyone can remain updated in case of issues concerning monitoring, team performance and the project costs rising.

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Benefits of Mobile Apps in the Construction Industry

benefits of mobile apps in construction industries

When mobile apps are being developed for the construction business, they should be customized to meet the specific needs of the industry. Have a look at the benefits of mobile apps in the construction industry in the UK.

1) Focus on Electronic Tendering

For 80% to 90% of public construction projects, the electronic circulation of tender is in great demand. In the UK, the figure stands at 100% for contracts circulated online over EUR 90,000. Those construction companies that choose not to adapt to these technologies will be left behind.

With established standards in place, the electronic circulation of tender submission ensures security and compliance. It also makes the process more efficient and transparent.

2) Boost Potential for Optimization with Smart Building Site Logistics

70% of the time, the average construction worker ends up devoting their working time to errands such as material transportation, organizing the site, cleaning up, taking care of the equipment, etc. Digital solutions such as business mobile apps are extremely handy in this scenario as they have the potential to optimize the usage of all available resources.

Several construction companies do not implement digital solutions, for example, a supplied software that can optimize worker utilization capacity. IoT in the construction business is largely working towards establishing coordination between construction machinery and vehicles and RFID² technology.

This helps in the identification of products within the construction site. Additionally, the mobile that is integrated with RFID technology is also able to analyze when a freshly laid concrete surface is fitted.

3) Robots and Drones Are the Future of the Construction Industry

Some of the leading construction companies are leaning towards using 3D technology, especially where there is a need to survey the land and the building. Whilst the survey is in progress, the technology can demarcate water pipes, sewers, phone and power lines, fiber optic cables, etc.

Similarly, like 3D technology, a recent entrant in this space is drones which are being used for land surveys, keeping an eye on big construction sites and tracking and monitoring project progress.

4) Digital Sales is Expediting Direct & Better Service

Just like any other sector, the construction industry also has stiff competition. For this, you need to think intelligently and be one step ahead of your peers.

To know what your potential customers are looking for is the competitive edge. Finding out their requirements before your competitor does is essential. Digital solutions have penetrated in the domain  where customer relationship management programs embedded in mobile applications extract volumes of customer data.

The objective here is to analyze the raw data to draw insights and ensure you generate communication that adds value to your end customers. This will certainly ensure that your customer service is far above everyone else’s.

5) Continue With Your Legacy

For a construction business, it does not stop with the completion of a single project. As you invest in more projects, you also get the opportunity to build long term relationships with your customers.

With a post-sales’ mobile app, construction companies can continue to build a strong relationship with their customers.

Read Also: Reasons why Enterprises Need Mobile Apps 

To Wrap-up

Construction costs have been typically known to shoot up by 80% because 77% of mega projects around the globe seem to run at least 40% behind schedule. Custom designed mobile apps for the construction industry can significantly benefits this situation in a positive direction.

Therefore, real estate developers and construction businesses are now open to incorporating mobile apps into their systems as it has proven to strengthen the entire construction process.

It is not surprising that forward-thinking developers are joining forces with well-known app developers for customized digital solutions and mobile app development.