What is Hybrid App Development & Top 5 Frameworks: a Comprehensive Guide (2023)
Hybrid app development combines the benefits of native and web apps to create a seamless user experience across multiple platforms. By using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, hybrid apps can be built quickly and cost-effectively while still accessing device-specific features.
Given this, what is hybrid app development? In this blog, we’ll dive into what hybrid app development is. We’ll also discuss the top frameworks for hybrid app development and provide tips for choosing the best one for your project. Whether you’re a business owner looking to expand your digital presence or a developer seeking new tools, this blog has something for you.
What is Hybrid App Development?
The hybrid app development methodology entails creating an app with a single project that uses a framework that can target all necessary platforms, such as Android, iOS, and Windows.
Hybrid software is popular since developers can create a single code base that can be used for the app on multiple platforms. Apart from some aspects of the app (the main one being the UI, which users want to be customized to their platform of choice), developers only need to write the code once, and it can then be reused when developing the app for any other target platform.
Hybrid apps are in high demand for two reasons: They’re easier to develop than native apps, and their source code can be used across multiple platforms, including the web.
Hybrid mobile app development is especially appealing to companies since it enables them to enter the mobile market on all major platforms at once.
Key differences: web apps vs. native apps
The word web app refers to an app that can be accessed using a desktop or mobile device’s browser. The word “native app” refers to an app that you can download and install on your device. A native mobile app is designed specifically for mobile devices. The terms native app, native mobile app, and mobile app are sometimes used interchangeably to refer to the same type of software.
The following are some important differences between native apps and web apps.
Functionality
Web apps only allow users to interact with web browsers. Even if a web application has a rich design, it cannot access device functionality. Native mobile apps, on the other hand, allow users to interact with their devices’ internal hardware and operating systems. Users can be granted access to native features such as:
- Location tracking on a device
- Device Microphones and cameras
- Contacts for users
- Touch gestures, device tilt, and other user interactions
- Device security features such as fingerprint scanning or face recognition
User experience
Due to their reliance on browsers, web apps lack consistency in user experience. Different browsers may display different features or graphics. Buttons and menu bar functions in mobile browsers may be difficult to access. Browser window resizing may affect the look, feel, and functionality of the web application.
Users prefer native mobile apps. For example, native software takes up the entire device and fills the screen. Users get more out of the native app because they are familiar with the interactions. Users can also be re-engaged by sending push notifications from the native app.
Performance
When compared to web apps, native applications have greater performance. They are faster, more responsive, and more interactive. Nonetheless, it is the user’s responsibility to keep the native program running. To keep the app running optimally, the user must download and install regular software updates. Web apps are slower and less responsive, but they provide greater performance control. Software updates benefit all users immediately.
App development
Web apps are easier, less expensive, and faster to develop. A simple app development method reduces time to market. They are also easier to manage because you just have to test and update a single codebase. Native apps necessitate a larger cost outlay. They also require cross-platform development teams. For example, a native iOS developer may not be the best choice to build native Android applications.
Customer reach
Customers can only access web apps if they have an internet connection. In the case of mobile web apps, users must first open the mobile browser before finding the app. On the other hand, native apps can be designed to work offline on the user’s device. When native apps are available in app stores, they are found more easily. You can launch marketing campaigns within the app store to reach a larger or newer consumer base.
5 of the Best Frameworks for Hybrid App Development
We’ve compiled a list of the top hybrid app frameworks, which are becoming increasingly popular.
React Native
React Native is a JavaScript framework for creating cross-platform mobile apps. This framework contains a special language called JSX for developing user interfaces that let you utilize React to write HTML and CSS. Its user interface components are likewise intended to provide users with a quick and engaging experience.
Ionic
Millions of sophisticated apps are powered by the Ionic app framework, such as those used by the NHS and Southwest Airlines. It enables you to create hybrid mobile apps for multiple platforms utilizing a single code base.
A library of mobile-optimized HTML, CSS, and JavaScript components is included in Ionic. These are essential tools for creating user-friendly and interactive multi-platform apps.
Xamarin
As a natively compiled platform, Xamarin has a relatively recent market debut. Using this framework to create a high-performance app will allow it to retain its native look and feel.
For app development, it makes use of the C# language and other native libraries from the .NET layer. With Xamarin, you can build high-end apps for multiple platforms without sacrificing performance. It offers a substantially better user experience than some of the more popular hybrid frameworks.
Flutter
An intuitive UI toolkit allows you to control the components of your app while delivering native-like performance, according to Google.
Flutter includes plugin libraries and new user interfaces to help with the native experience. Furthermore, Flutter has a broader audience reach because it is not limited to Android or iOS applications.
The app builder in Flutter allows you to combine functionalities. With its hot loader function, you may make instant changes while debugging your code, streamlining the development process.
Native Script
NativeScript is an open-source framework for developing apps with web technologies such as JavaScript and CSS.
It is a popular framework due to its strong features and overall efficiency. Its compatibility with newer mobile devices, up-to-date resource library, and command-line interface adds to its value.
NativeScript’s enticing feature is that it updates your app in real-time without requiring you to refresh. NativeScript, unlike most other hybrid frameworks, does not employ web technology.
How to Select the Best Hybrid Mobile App Development for Your Business?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. You must consider your company’s needs and seek an app development company that can meet those requirements.
Consider these factors before making a decision:
Platforms Where Your App Will Run
Not all app development companies have experience building apps that work across multiple platforms. Be sure the company you hire has experience developing hybrid applications that will run on the devices your clients are using.
Your App’s Features
Not all hybrid apps are made equal. Some developers specialize in designing simple, basic apps, while others focus on more complex applications. Check that the developers you hire have the necessary experience and competence to build the features your app requires.
The Development Timeframe
How long will it take to get your app ready for launch? You must consider this when making your decision.
The Price
Hybrid app creation is not cheap, but it is still less expensive than designing native software from scratch. Set a budget and choose a firm that can operate within it.
Customer Service Level
How essential is customer service to you? Be sure the app development company you hire has a good reputation for providing outstanding client service.
Hire the Top Hybrid App Developers Right Away
If you’re looking to simplify the decision-making process, Synergent can assist you in locating and hiring the most talented hybrid app developers from around the world for your company. Reach out to us for additional information.
