But, what are they and how are they created? What different types of profiles do they develop? In this article, we will try to explain these concepts, especially for students in computer science who are interested in the world of development and programming.
What are mobile applications?
A mobile application, also known as an app, is a computer program designed for mobile devices. These applications are used to perform a wide variety of tasks, ranging from games to performance and/or specific service applications. In essence, they are the mobile equivalent of computer programs designed to run on operating systems such as Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Mobile applications can be obtained from stores such as Apple's App Store or Google Play Store, depending on your device's operating system. Once installed, they can be used to access online services, function offline, or interact with the device's hardware.
What types of mobile applications exist?
We distinguish three main types of mobile applications:
Native applications
Designed for a specific operating system, such as iOS or Android. They are developed using specific programming languages and tools for the platform. This allows them to fully utilize the device's performance and features. However, this requires separate development for each operating system and are generally more expensive to develop.
Mobile Web Applications
These are browser-based applications that run in the mobile device's web browser. They are not installed on the device and are accessible via a URL. They are cross-platform, meaning they work on any device with a web browser, and are less expensive to develop.
Hybrid Applications
Hybrid applications combine features of native and mobile web applications. Therefore, they are developed using web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, but are wrapped in a layer that allows them to access operating system features.
Creating Mobile Applications
Languages and Frameworks
The development of mobile applications involves the use of different programming languages and tools depending on the type of application you want to create.
For Native Development
For native application development, specific languages for each platform are used:
Mobile Web Applications
Standard web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are used. You can build mobile web applications using libraries and frameworks such as React, Angular, or Vue.
Hybrid Applications
In this case, frameworks such as Ionic, React Native, or Flutter are used, which allow the development of applications using web technologies, but with access to the native features of the device.
Phases in Creating a Mobile Application
The following details the fundamental steps for creating a mobile application:
Concept and Planning
Start by having a clear idea of what you want your application to do and how it will be used. Research the market and the competition before anything else. Then, analyze and plan the structure and functionality, trying to add more value than what already exists.
Design of the User Interface (UI)
Design the user interface of the application, taking into account usability and user experience. You can use tools such as Adobe XD or Sketch for this.
Development of the Mobile Application
Start writing the code for the application and create the necessary database design. This is a crucial step in which the programming languages and tools mentioned are used. Surround yourself with talent for this phase, as it is the heart of the entire project.
Testing and Testing
Conduct thorough testing to identify and fix errors and performance issues. Therefore, make sure that the application works on a variety of common devices and screen sizes.
Optimization and fine tuning
Make adjustments and improvements based on testing and user feedback.
Publication
Register a developer account in the corresponding app store (App Store, Google Play, etc.). Then, submit your application to a review process, and once approved, it will be published and available for download.
Maintenance
Publishing the application does not mark the end of the process. Therefore, it is important to keep the application updated, fix errors, and add new features as needed. Think that an updated application is a guarantee of success and continuity.
Development Platforms
It is important to be aware of the development platforms available today. Some of the most popular and important are:
- Xcode
- the official development platform for iOS applications. Uses Swift and Objective-C as programming languages. * React Native
- a hybrid application framework created by Facebook. Allows for cross-platform development using JavaScript and React. * Android Studio
- the official development platform for Android applications. Uses Java and Kotlin as programming languages.
Learning Resources
Learning to develop mobile applications can be a challenge, but there are resources available to help you. Some of the resources we recommend are:
- Online training
- platforms such as Coursera, edX, Udemy and Khan Academy offer online courses that cover a wide range of topics related to mobile application development. * Communities
- join online developer communities. These places are ideal for asking questions, finding solutions, and learning from other developers. * Documentation
- platforms such as Android and iOS provide detailed documentation and tutorials that are essential for learning to program for these platforms. * Books
- there are a large number of books available that cover mobile application development, aimed at both beginners and more advanced profiles. * Self-learning
- one of the best ways to learn is through self-practice. Develop your own mobile application projects, even if they are small. This will give you practical experience and help you improve your skills.
Get trained for a profession with opportunities
Mobile application development is a constantly evolving field that offers opportunities for computer science students and developers. If you are interested in creating mobile applications, it is essential to learn the programming languages. Similarly, proficiency in tools and best practices is necessary to succeed.
If you are interested in technology, from the Universitat Carlemany we offer our Bachelor in Computer Science. You will gain the necessary knowledge to enter the workforce with the help of the best teachers.