Apple's iPhone has for years been an immensely popular smartphone device for discerning users who value a premium build, superior usage experience and life enriching applications. In a matter of years, iPhone apps market has literally exploded since its launch in 2008. iPhone apps have not only transformed the way we conduct business but also enhanced personal and social lives in more ways than one. The fact that Apple has the largest database of apps on iTunes is ample testimony to the popularity of the platform. For developers, it is good practice to keep abreast of the current trends in iPhone app development, as that enables them to design apps more in tune with people's choices and preferences and more future proof. Two of the biggest factors that denoting the trends that outline iPhone development in the current context include:
- Development method - As with other mobile application development platforms, iPhone app development currently also begins with a choice, between complete native applications, web or cloud-based applications, and hybrid applications which combine the best of both worlds. Current trends indicate that more and more developers are preferring hybrid applications to combine performance with easy development and deployment. Trends also show that applications which break the device barrier usually go on to become more popular-cementing the case for cross-platform application development.
- Data usage - Another growing trend among iPhone application development practices is the use of mobile data. Mobile apps have been using mobile data for a long time, but recent trends indicate that those apps which fine tune their mobile data use are preferred by users. Mobile Internet speeds have been on the rise with advancements in technology especially in developing nations, but apps which use mobile data judiciously are usually preferred to data hungry applications. Optimizing mobile data usage is a great way to make an iPhone app a more attractive proposition.
Following the current trends is a great way to tap into the pulse of the audience and gauge their choices and preferences, and iPhone app developers can use knowledge derived from the strains to develop apps that would go on to become popular, often used choices for iPhone users.