Everyone in today’s digital world has become obsessed with their smartphones, or, should we say, mobile applications. This is especially true for Android users; nearly 110 million apps were downloaded from Google Play in 2023.
And that’s because you can do a lot using mobile apps, from playing video games to running entire businesses. Consequently, consumers expect brand apps to be immersive, easy to navigate, and filled with incredible features.
A technique that helps companies meet these demands is called an application framework.
What Is an Application Framework?
There are many definitions of an application framework, but it can be simply defined as a toolset to build applications. It contains many hardware and software-related tools, such as:
- Compilers
- Programming Interfaces
- Debugging Tools
App developers are required to stick to the templates provided by the framework, so they can work efficiently instead of wasting time.
Let’s understand an application framework with the help of an example.
You’re trying out your favorite recipe for the first time and doing everything with your bare hands. No appliances to grind the meat or boil the milk. That, as you can imagine, will be a mess. Not only will it take longer to cook the dish, but it’ll also lack flavor.
However, the results will be pleasant if you do the same using top-of-the-line appliances. Your dish will be ready in a timely manner, and it’ll taste heavenly.
An application framework is the ‘appliance’ in this scenario, speeding up the development process and guaranteeing flawless performance.
The Best App Development Frameworks
Now that you know what an application framework is, it’s time to discuss the next part – the best app development frameworks. And it’s crucial we do so for many reasons.
For starters, there are plenty of frameworks for different mobile app categories – iOS, cross-platform, web apps, and Android. And the frameworks for specific platforms are further divided into multiple categories.
So, not knowing which app framework to use could be a waste of your time and resources. Fortunately, that’ll never happen because we’ve compiled a list of the best frameworks for Android app development:
1. React Native
React Native is a top Android app development framework. Built, maintained, and supported by Facebook, React Native is used by some of the biggest names in the industry, like Skype and Amazon Prime.
So, what is it about React Native that makes it such a popular platform?
Well, there are plenty of features, starting with faster app development and deployment. Then there’s the compatibility with third-party plug-ins, like payment gateways for easy order transactions.
And finally, React Native has what’s called a hot-reload feature; it’s especially beneficial for game developers interested in altering the files without interfering with how it currently functions.
2. Flutter
Developed by Google in 2017, Flutter is an open-source app development framework to make both web- and desktop-based Android apps. And one of the best parts is that developers have to use a single codebase to get the job done.
As for other appealing functionalities of Flutter, they include creating beautiful user interfaces and personalized widgets.
Similar to React Native, Flutter has a hot-reload feature. Those who wish to test an app for bugs can do so without restarting the whole thing. This feature also helps run the app smoothly.
All these qualities make Flutter one of the most popular frameworks for applications.
3. Xamarin
While the other two Android app development frameworks were recent, Xamarin is relatively older. It was developed in 2011 by Microsoft and uses the C# programming language. Because of this, the apps developed require fewer lines of coding, helping developers build products faster.
However, that doesn’t mean you can expect a drop in the quality. In fact, it’s the opposite. Xamarin-based apps are known for running flawlessly, whether for a healthcare or educational company.
And the flawlessness also translates to user experience, thanks to Xamarin’s ability to personalize elements across various platforms.
4. Ionic
If you want to develop a feature-rich Android app that runs smoothly, try Ionic. It lets you incorporate excellent features, from easy navigation to product or service filtration.
Apart from that, one of the most compelling reasons to use Ionic is that the platform can be used to create Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). For those who don’t know, a PWA functions as an operating page and mobile app on any device.
A few common examples of PWAs include:
- Starbucks
- Uber
- Tinder
- Soundslice
What’s more, developers can modify Ionic whenever they want for free and use it for personal or commercial projects.
5. Apache Cordova
Formerly known as PhoneGap, Apache Cordova uses emerging technologies like CSS3, HTML, and JavaScript to build mobile apps. With the help of Apache Cordova, programmers can utilize built-in mobile features like the camera and GPS.
Apache Cordova was released in 2009, which means the creators have had plenty of time to figure out what works and what doesn’t for the platform.
Other notable features of the platform include a single codebase that allows for quicker development and third-party tool integration for managing apps.
Apache Cordova is best suited for companies and developers who intend to branch out to platforms other than Android.
Tips for Selecting the Right Framework for Android App Development
You’d think your job would be slightly easier after knowing about the best Android frameworks for app development. But the number of options must’ve left you feeling overwhelmed.
That’s why we’ve jotted down a few helpful tips for selecting the right platform. Based on these factors, you can narrow down your choices
1. Cross-Platform Features
If you’re building an app for Android, it doesn’t mean you’ll never want to migrate to other operating systems in the future. That’s why you should leave the option to transition to iOS and Windows open.
2. Developer-Friendliness
Developing an app can be time-consuming. And the delay in the deployment can happen if you choose a complex framework. Because of this, it’s best to stick to a developer-friendly platform.
3. Security Measures
Do you want your app to keep users’ data safe and secure? Of course, you do. Keeping this in mind, use security measures of the highest standards to prevent cybercriminals from accessing your customers’ confidential data.
Wrapping up the Blog
The importance of selecting the right framework to develop an Android app can’t be emphasized enough. Not only does it affect the timeline of the project, but it also impacts apps’ other factors, like speed and scalability.
At Design Genious, we’re well-versed in developing Android apps using the most suitable platforms. Whether it’s for the banking or lifestyle industry, our developers make sure they run smoothly and deliver a fantastic user experience.
