Google Play Store rules the roost for highest app downloads and it is common for app development companies to undertake projects with the platform alone in mind. We bring 5 Android app development success mantras to remember.
Know your market
Though the highest number of mobile app downloads occur on Android, iOS app developers are reaping greater profits in monetary terms. This can be viewed as a pro and a con and whether it is worthwhile launching your application on Android entirely depends on the revenue generation techniques you plan to employ. Free apps make their money from in-app purchases, advertisements and a paid upgrade. Of course, Android does expose your application to a larger user base globally, so that is a strong point in favour of the platform, especially if your app is designed for regional use.
Responsive to screen size
Android is an open source platform, hence, the screen size variation is not restricted to smartphone and tablet form alone, but expands to cover the various mobile handsets built with the operating system. So, it is highly essential that your application can guarantee a uniform experience across the varying screen sizes.
Language support
As we’ve mentioned, Android has a global flavour due largely to its open source nature and easy access. Hence, you must be prepared to make your application available in the regional languages of the countries where Android has a great market presence in order to truly tap onto a global market.
It’s not iOS- don’t clone
A common cost and time saving measure resorted to by Android app developers is to replicate iOS app design and usability standards for the Android platform version of the application. Some common iOS app features that are reused and compromise the Android app experience are use of static tabs at the bottom, using rounded rectangles for app icons, right caret in lists and and on-screen button.
Offline works as well as online
Apps that give a consistent performance on offline and online mode certainly have an edge as it enables the user to function even when they lose internet connection. If not all function, enable certain key functions to work just as well in the offline mode so that users are not frustrated.
An ergonomic design and intuitive features are the backbone of any good application and with Android, and its many-faceted devices, it becomes even more imperative to pay attention towards these.
Understand the audience and the purpose your application will serve before taking the plunge to develop the app. Whether local or global, Android will always remain the platform to depend on to ensure your app succeeds amongst the larger populace.