Cross-platform mobile development refers to a mobile application development technique that can be used on multiple mobile platforms. As there are numerous platforms, device fragmentation was one of the main challenges that made it difficult for developers to create applications that would run on all mobile devices. Cross-platform mobile development tools have been developed to solve this problem, ensuring consistency by offering common device functionality features.
As today’s mobile app developers try to be agile, they use the best tools to develop a mobile app. Listed below are the top 4 cross-platform mobile app development tools.
1. PhoneGap / Apache Cordova
2. Titanium throttle
3.air adobe
4. Touch Sencha
1.PhoneGap/Apache Cordova:
It’s an open source framework that allows you to build mobile apps using a standardized web interface for the platforms you care about.
advantage:
* Does not require knowledge of dense programming languages as it follows basic development languages such as JavaScript, HTML and CSS.
* It allows you to develop applications easily without large investments.
* Installing the PhoneGap app is similar to installing a native app.
Disadvantages:
* The mobile app developer himself has to write the plugin if it is not available.
* Performance will be affected if the developer uses a lot of graphics.
2. Appcelerator Titanium:
It is an open and extensible development environment used to create beautiful native apps on different mobile devices.
advantage:
* Allows you to develop an application in a flexible way with its rapid prototyping.
* Use JavaScript, HTML and CSS to create the application.
* Uses standard user interface elements like tables, buttons, etc.
* Allows you to store data locally.
* Supports asynchronous module definition (AMD) and common JS.
Disadvantages:
* Access is restricted for certain components of a mobile operating system.
* Offers limited access to device resources like camera.
3. Adobe Air:
It is a new generation technology that allows you to easily develop applications using HTML, JavaScript, Ajax, Adobe Flash and Adobe Flex.
advantage:
* Ensures a rich user experience.
* Allows you to create applications with rich media content that require flash.
* Easy to install.
* Play high quality HD videos with industry standard codecs.
Disadvantages:
* Database access is limited to SQLite or web services.
* The developer must have a good understanding of complex languages to use Adobe Air.
4. Touch Sencha:
It is a mobile application framework that allows you to create powerful applications that work on iOS, Android, Windows, and other platforms.
advantage:
* Offers a rich experience as expected by users.
* Provides an extensive set of documentation and screenshots that make you more productive.
* Guarantees pixel perfection with its advanced layout engine.
Disadvantages:
* Chances of getting vendor locked are high as it is not open source.
* Only works in JavaScript, which can create problems when building mobile apps.
Expert designers at Fortune Innovation Brisbane help you build smarter mobile apps as you decide which cross-platform framework is right for you. Contact us for any requirement in the development of mobile applications.