There are many methods of building a mobile app: native, cross-platform, or no-code. This article will focus on comparing two approaches mentioned in the title, helping you choose technologies to develop mobile apps suitable for app stores. Before diving into the comparison, we'll explore the current state of the app development industry and the common decisions businesses are making.

Why is it important to start a technology choice discussion with market analysis? The reliability of the technology and the investments made in it directly influence the longevity of the mobile application and its return on investment (ROI). Therefore, it's crucial to consider all the benefits and pitfalls to make the right choice.

Mobile app development market trends

AI implementation

According to a Statista research, one of the trending directions in mobile application development and monetization is the use of artificial intelligence. For example, major advancements have been seen in in-app advertising. AI tools help improve ROI, targeting, reach, and engagement, and also create personalized texts for messaging. Businesses that will benefit the most from AI implementation in in-app advertising include gaming applications, social media mobile apps, and shopping apps — those that have a potential and a base for targeted advertising.

5G technology

5G mobile subscriptions reached 2.27 billion in 2024 and are expected to reach 5.65 billion by 2030. This technology is a key driver in the development of the Internet of Things, allowing devices to connect at higher data speeds. It will significantly influence the development of data-intensive apps. This means more applications with live streaming, immersive experiences, and fast data transfers will be created. Apps will be able to process larger datasets, becoming smarter.

Internet of Things

Near Field Communication (NFC), sensor technology, and beacons — all these technologies are integral parts of the Internet of Things (IoT). Projections indicate that annual IoT connection revenue will double to more than $40B by 2030. Mobile apps often serve as central hubs for controlling smart home devices and wearables. Future enhancements in technology will focus on making apps more secure and capable of managing automation.

Super apps

Super apps will definitely continue to dominate app development. These applications combine multiple functions and serve as a hub for various services, ranging from social networking to food ordering and online shopping. WeChat, a Chinese platform, is a prime example of such an application. In the fourth quarter of 2024, WeChat reported 1.38 billion active users.

Integration with wearable devices

As wearable technology, especially smartwatches, continues to spread, it's very likely that apps on smartphones will need to synchronize with their counterparts on these smart devices. The number of people using smartwatches in the digital health market is expected to keep growing from 2025 to 2029. During this period, there will be an additional 285.8 million users, representing about a 62.86% increase. By 2029, there will be approximately 740.53 million users, setting a new record. Notably, the number of smartwatch users has already been increasing for several years.

Cloud-based applications

Cloud storage and virtual servers form the foundation for developing scalable and highly functional applications. Cloud storage enables seamless data syncing, which improves the user experience, while global server locations ensure faster content delivery worldwide. According to revenue statistics for cloud-based software as a service (SaaS), including desktop and mobile apps, the SaaS market was valued at approximately 250 billion U.S. dollars in 2025. It is expected to grow to 299 billion U.S. dollars within the same year.

Security and privacy

Although it's last on the list, the importance of secure applications remains crucial. Apps collect various forms of user data, from names to browsing histories and locations, all of which require protection. Developers must implement anti-tampering technologies to prevent hackers from altering code, and employ secure coding practices to avoid common vulnerabilities. Security-as-a-service solutions further protect users from data breaches. Tools like mobile Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP) safeguard apps in real-time, while code obfuscation complicates the process for hackers trying to understand the app's code. Additional features, such as encrypted messaging and biometric logins, enhance security. Moreover, using reliable payment gateways ensures secure transactions, building trust with users.

No-code development

One of the continued trends in mobile app development for 2025-2026 is the ongoing use of no-code and low-code app builder platforms like Zoho, Glide, Adalo, and others. An app builder allows individuals and businesses to create mobile applications without needing extensive coding knowledge, thus making app development more accessible. These platforms help businesses quickly build apps through intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces. However, while an app builder offers simplicity and speed, it may still face limitations in terms of customization and scalability compared to native or cross-platform development approaches. As the trend persists, the app builder will need to address these limitations to remain competitive in the evolving tech landscape.

Mobile app development is shifting towards smarter solutions powered by AI and 5G, supporting data-intensive applications. As apps increasingly manage IoT devices and integrate with wearables, providing robust security and privacy becomes essential. Let's now take a look at the industries that are leading the app development market.

The most promising sectors for new app development

When thinking of a new app idea, it's useful to look at the stats. According to the Business of Apps rankings, the most profitable apps, based on their revenue and downloads, are streaming and video hosting platforms, dating apps, and AI assistants. Among the top-grossing applications with revenues over $50 million, listed from lowest to highest, are: Tinder Dating App, ChatGPT, Disney+, YouTube, Google One, and TikTok.

Among high-grossing apps with substantial revenues, you'll generally find excellent digital products with unique selling propositions, regardless of their industry. However, certain trends are noticeable. In addition to the industries already mentioned, top performers include the language learning platform Duolingo, the Amazon Shopping marketplace, various editing tools, cloud storage solutions like Dropbox, and music apps such as Spotify and YouTube Music, as well as numerous messaging apps.

Yet, according to Statista, the most popular segment of downloaded apps that generates the most revenue is gaming, valued at 249.9 billion US dollars.

What drives business interest in these sectors

Given the stats outlined by the Business of Apps rankings, several key factors drive business interest in the sectors occupied by top-grossing apps. Each sector meets basic consumer needs and uses successful business models, making them appealing to businesses seeking profitable opportunities. Here's a closer look at these drivers:

Subscription-based revenue models

The subscription model remains a dominant force across many high-revenue apps. This model provides a steady, recurring revenue stream that supports sustained business growth. The success of streaming platforms, music apps, AI assistants, and cloud services shows that people are willing to pay regularly for ongoing value.

Consumer demand for entertainment and media

Platforms like Disney+, YouTube, and TikTok capitalize on the consumer appetite for content. As consumption of digital and streaming media continues to grow, businesses are eager to invest in platforms offering diverse media libraries, exclusive content, or unique user experiences. Another word in favor of an entertainment app idea is the leading role of gaming apps, bringing the highest revenue.

Remaining importance of communication tools

Messaging apps and social platforms remain essential as they address the fundamental human need for connection. Businesses invest in these sectors understanding that engaging communication platforms can cultivate large user bases that can be monetized through subscriptions, adverts, and in-app purchases.

Need for personal and professional development tools

Language learning platforms like Duolingo and educational apps fulfill the growing trend of self-improvement and lifelong learning. Nowadays, skills quickly become outdated, and these apps provide learning opportunities that appeal to wide demographics.

Digital lifestyle integration

Apps like Google One and Dropbox illustrate that people rely more and more on digital solutions for storage and organization. Businesses recognize that consumers need to integrate these digital tools into daily life, driving investment in productivity and cloud solutions.

Technological innovation and automation

AI-driven apps such as ChatGPT highlight the potential for advanced technologies that automate tasks. Companies are drawn to the opportunity to innovate and offer unique, state-of-the-art solutions that capture consumer interest. In 2024, AI chatbot apps increased in downloads over 112%.

Global marketplace and e-commerce growth

Apps with features for shopping and transactions, such as Amazon, illustrate that e-commerce is a key part of how people purchase goods now. Businesses invest in app building to tap into the global shift from traditional retail to online shopping platforms.

Cultural and social engagement

Platforms that integrate social and interactive elements, whether through music sharing like Spotify or video creation on TikTok, draw significant interest. They offer businesses the chance to not just reach audiences, but to embed brands within cultural conversations.

Native vs. cross-platform development

There are two primary approaches for developing apps intended for distribution on the App Store and Google Play: native and cross-platform app development. Let's take a closer look at both

Explanation of native app development

Native app development involves creating a mobile application specifically for one platform, either iOS or Android, using that platform's official tools and languages. When discussing device distribution, the app designed for Apple devices will specifically be marketed as an "iPhone app," while Android apps have the advantage of being compatible with a broader range of devices like those produced by Samsung, Google, Huawei, Xiaomi, and many others.

iOS app development uses Swift or Objective-C as the programming languages and Xcode as the development environment.

Android app development requires Kotlin or Java with Android Studio as the development toolkit.

With this approach, the app is created for a specific operating system, allowing it to fully use the device's features and capabilities, and providing opportunities for specific app store optimization.

Advantages:

Superior performance. A native app is compiled into machine code, leading to faster execution and more efficient performance on the device.

Full device access. Native apps have unrestricted access to device hardware and platform-specific APIs for camera, microphone, GPS, allowing for richer functionality.

User experience (UX). Created specifically for each platform, native app design leads to an intuitive and responsive UX that adheres to platform-specific guidelines.

Disadvantages:

Higher costs. Since you need to develop separate apps for each platform, it can be more expensive than the cross-platform approach.

Increased development time. Maintaining two separate codebases can be time-consuming as changes need to be replicated on each platform.

Resource intensive. Requires hiring specialists proficient in each platform's specific languages and tools.

Explanation of cross-platform app development

Cross-platform app development allows a single application to run on multiple platforms via a shared codebase. Today, these types of apps are not very different from natively-built ones; they simply require a skilled team that knows how to make them look and behave like native apps. There are several popular cross-platform frameworks.

React Native uses JavaScript to create natively rendered mobile apps.

Flutter was developed by Google, it uses the Dart programming language to create high-quality compiled apps for mobile, web, and desktop.

Xamarin is a Microsoft-owned framework using C# to create apps with a native look and feel.

Advantages:

Cost-effective. A single codebase reduces development and maintenance costs, making it appealing for businesses targeting multiple platforms.

Faster to market. A simultaneous app development process for multiple platforms can speed up the release timeline.

Consistent user interface. With frameworks that allow code sharing, it can maintain a consistent UI across different devices.

Disadvantages:

Performance limitations. Although improving, they may still lag behind native apps in terms of performance, particularly for graphics-intensive app design.

Limited platform features. Access to platform-specific features can be restricted or require complex bridging solutions.

Potential UX gaps. Cross-platform tools might not fully replicate native elements or behaviors, sometimes leading to a less polished user experience.

When comparing native and cross-platform app development, the choice largely depends on priorities such as performance, user experience, cost, and development speed. Native apps boast high performance and seamless integration with platform-specific features but at higher costs and longer development times. Cross-platform solutions offer budget-saving benefits and faster development cycles but may compromise on certain user experience elements and performance efficiency.

Factors influencing the choice of technology

Knowing the pros and cons of both mobile app development approaches, what should be considered from a business standpoint?

Budget constraints

Smaller budgets may favor cross-platform development due to lower overall costs.

Project timeline

Tight deadlines might make cross-platform more attractive for quicker releases.

User base and market reach

For apps targeting iOS or Android exclusively, native might be ideal. For a broader audience, cross-platform saves resources.

App complexity and features required

If the app has advanced, platform-specific features, native development is preferable.

Performance requirements

Apps needing optimal speed and resource management, like high-performance games, may benefit from native development.

Ongoing updates and maintenance

Consider the convenience of maintaining a single codebase versus managing separate ones, especially in terms of long-term resource allocation.

Our approach to app development in 2025-2026

Ronas IT offers both approaches to development, providing native and cross-platform app development services. The choice often depends on the urgency and the platform we're developing for. Some clients prefer iOS-only development, while others might start with both platforms at once and choose cross-platform development for a faster launch.

Methods and technologies we use in app development

Cross-platform framework: React Native

Ronas IT cross-platform development services

React Native allows us to create apps for both iOS and Android simultaneously, reducing the need for separate coding for each platform. This approach makes development faster and less expensive compared to other options. Here are more reasons why we offer our clients cross-platform development with React Native instead of other frameworks:

It saves money. You only need to write new features and fix bugs once, cutting down on maintenance costs compared to doing it for each platform separately.

It offers flexibility. With many ready-to-use solutions like OTA updates, push notifications, and analytics tools, you can enhance your app more quickly.

It has reusable code. The code and logic are similar to React.js, allowing you to use the same code for the web version of your product's frontend.

It is easily distributed. React Native is packaged in a native bundle, making it simple to distribute your app on the App Store and Google Play.

Native development: Swift and Kotlin

Ronas IT iOS app development services

Ronas IT Android app development services

Our programming language choices for native development are Swift for iOS and Kotlin for Android. When discussing native development frameworks beyond Swift and Kotlin, comparisons often involve alternative languages like Objective-C for iOS and Java for Android. Here's a closer look at how they compare:

Swift vs. Objective-C:

Modern syntax. Swift offers a more modern and user-friendly syntax compared to Objective-C, emphasizing safety and reducing common programming errors.

Performance. Swift is generally faster and more efficient due to optimizations made by Apple since its introduction as a successor to Objective-C.

Ease of use. Swift's syntax is closer to other modern programming languages, making it easier for new developers to learn and adopt.

Kotlin vs. Java:

Conciseness. Kotlin reduces boilerplate code compared to Java, making it easier and faster to write and maintain code.

Interoperability. Kotlin is fully interoperable with Java, allowing developers to use existing Java libraries and frameworks seamlessly.

Modern features. Kotlin introduces modern programming features such as extension functions, nullable types, and coroutines for asynchronous programming, which are either absent or less straightforward in Java.

How our approach adapts to market needs

Technology selection

We use both cross-platform frameworks like React Native and native development languages such as Swift and Kotlin. This approach helps us select the most suitable technology stack based on the app idea and goals. For example, we use React Native to efficiently develop applications that need to operate on both iOS and Android, reducing development time and costs. For projects requiring optimal performance and access to the latest platform features, we use Swift and Kotlin for their respective platforms.

Flexible project management

We incorporate Scrumban in our approach, blending Scrum's agility with Kanban's flexibility to help us respond effectively to a project's evolving needs. This method is particularly beneficial for complex projects where scope and requirements may change over time. However, for projects with a fixed budget and clearly defined requirements, we can adapt to a more traditional waterfall approach, ensuring that the budget won't change and the project will adhere to a structured timeline.

Microservice architecture and security

To meet the demand for integrating multiple services within one app and providing secure solutions, we implement microservice architecture when it's appropriate for the app. This structure allows individual services to function independently, so if one service fails, others remain operational. Each microservice maintains its own separate database, minimizing data exposure in case of unauthorized access. This approach ensures a secure and efficient app development process across our projects. According to the Business Research Company, the microservice architecture market is projected to grow from $6.27 billion in 2024 to $7.45 billion in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 18.8%. It is expected to continue expanding, reaching $15.97 billion by 2029 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.0%. Statista reports that in 2024, 60% of organizations using cloud-native application platforms opted for microservices as their preferred application type.

Using updated and enhanced versions of the frameworks

We update our technologies and incorporate our own developments into existing frameworks to ensure that our applications remain functional. In 2024, React Native introduced the 0.76 new architecture. We transitioned to this new architecture and started new projects with it, as well as updated existing ones. Our team has also developed tools to automate app creation, including rtkp-entity-api, nx-generators, react-native-common-modules packages, and more.

When the choice of technology wasn't right: Case studies

Transition from one mobile app development type to another is a common occurrence in the tech industry, as companies adapt to changing needs and technological advancements. Here's how some notable companies have navigated this transition:

The first choice is not always the right one. For example, some companies that adopted React Native early for Android development when the framework first launched eventually returned to native development. Conversely, others started with native development and then gradually transitioned to cross-platform solutions, like Shopify, which fully adopted React Native in 2020.

Discord: From native to cross-platform

Discord initially adopted React Native for its iOS app development. The company successfully used cross-platform development to create a consistent user experience across devices in 2022. By using frameworks like Electron and React Native, Discord was able to reuse code, simplifying the development process, simultaneous updates, and feature rollouts for both iOS and Android versions. This approach allowed Discord to:

• Implement faster updates.
• Introduce new features more efficiently.
• Provide a seamless communication experience for users across different platforms.
• Build a strong, global community of users.
• Expand into new international markets.

As a result of the right strategy, Discord achieved significant growth, with revenues reaching $575 million in 2023 and expectations for continued rapid growth in the coming years.

Airbnb: From web to native to cross-platform to native

Airbnb's journey with mobile app development is more complex than initially perceived. Contrary to popular belief, Airbnb did not solely rely on React Native for its mobile application. The company's mobile app development history can be summarized as follows:

Until 2012: Airbnb operated solely as a website without a mobile application.

2012-2016: The company developed native Android and iOS applications, which were successful.

2016 onwards: Airbnb introduced React Native, primarily for its new Experiences feature. However, only about 20% of their codebase (approximately 160,000 lines out of 800,000) was written using React Native.

Airbnb's decision to adopt React Native in 2016 was driven by the need to rapidly develop and deploy Experiences across platforms. However, the company faced challenges with React Native, including:

• Difficulty in maintaining and updating the codebase.
• Performance issues compared to native applications.
• Inconsistencies in user experience across platforms.

These challenges led Airbnb to transition back to native development for its mobile application in 2017. The company found that native apps provided superior performance, better user experience, and easier maintenance back in the 2010s. Worth noting that the React Native framework has progressed since then.

These transitions highlight that the choice between native and cross-platform development is not always straightforward. Companies must consider factors such as performance requirements, development resources, target audience, and long-term maintainability when deciding on their mobile app development strategy.

Mobile app development failure: Hotjar's case

It's often better to transition technologies smoothly than to choose the wrong strategy in mobile app development from the start. One illustrative example where a lack of knowledge in mobile technologies led to a costly mistake is Hotjar, a company that invested over 3,500 developer hours and $200,000 in creating a mobile app — only to eventually discontinue it.

This case directly illustrates the consequences of making inappropriate technology choices in mobile app development. In their case, it wasn't the choice between native and cross-platform development that mattered, but rather the overall challenge in navigating the options effectively. The company shares their path on improving the approach to development:

Background and initial decision-making

Hotjar, known for its web analytics and feedback tools, decided to create a mobile version of their platform. The company's goal was to develop a software development kit (SDK) that would allow their users to implement Hotjar functionality in their own mobile apps. However, they faced a critical limitation: none of their product developers had experience building a mobile application or an SDK.

Rather than hiring mobile development specialists or partnering with a company experienced in mobile technologies, Hotjar made a fateful decision. They decided to give themselves "a crash course in mobile app development" by building their own app version of Hotjar, planning to use this experience to subsequently develop the SDK their users requested. This technology choice — attempting to develop in an unfamiliar platform without the necessary expertise — set the project on a path to failure from the outset.

The consequences of technological inexperience

The decision to proceed without appropriate technological expertise proved disastrous. Despite assigning two developers to the project, the lack of mobile development experience led to numerous challenges, inefficiencies, and a product that failed to meet market expectations. This case represents a classic example of platform mismatch — where web developers attempted to apply web development approaches to mobile development without understanding the fundamental differences between these technologies.

After significant investment of both time and financial resources, Hotjar was forced to discontinue the app. The lesson is clear: choosing to develop with unfamiliar technology without acquiring the necessary expertise or hiring an app developer first is a costly mistake.

Strategies to mitigate risks and avoid common mistakes in app development

Based on the Hotjar case study and broader industry research, several strategies emerge for avoiding technology selection pitfalls:

Conduct thorough platform research

Before committing to a specific technology stack, developers should research which platforms their target audience predominantly uses. This research should inform whether to develop for Android, iOS, or both, and whether to use native or cross-platform frameworks. Market research helps ensure the technology selected aligns with user preferences and behaviors.

Acquire necessary expertise

Companies should ensure they have the necessary expertise before embarking on mobile app development. This may involve hiring specialists, partnering with experienced development firms, or investing in comprehensive training for existing staff. The cost of acquiring expertise upfront is typically far less than the cost of failure.

Implement comprehensive testing

Testing should never be rushed or minimized. Successful apps implement comprehensive testing processes, including beta testing with target audience members to identify real-world issues across different scenarios. Testing infrastructure should be selected as carefully as development technologies themselves, ensuring compatibility with the chosen development approach.

Follow platform-specific guidelines

Developers must learn the guidelines of each platform they target. Designing and developing according to these standards helps avoid rejection from app stores and ensures a seamless user experience. Platform-specific app design patterns, interaction models, and development practices should be respected rather than attempting to force cross-platform uniformity where it doesn't fit.

Let's discuss the app platforms in more detail, as the process of submitting apps is often a concern for those developing their first product.

App store validation and its impact

When mentioning the application stores, the two major names come to mind, which are App Store by Apple for iOS apps and Google Play for Android apps. By 2026, consumer spending on mobile apps is expected to hit $161B on the Apple App Store and $72B on the Google Play Store.

Both Apple and Google began modifying their app store policies in 2021, initiating changes such as reducing commission fees for small publishers earning under $1M dollars annually. However, the two tech giants could encounter further restrictions in their key markets. Specifically for Apple, the company revised its App Store policies to allow developers to offer alternative payment options and updated its review guidelines, mandating developers to provide more detailed information on data collection and usage. The latter requires special attention to submitting an app to the app stores. Here are the processes of submitting mobile apps to Apple App Store and Google Play:

Apple App Store

Step 1. Submission preparation: Developers must assemble all necessary information, including app name, description, screenshots, and icons.

Step 2. Technical setup: This involves creating a bundle ID, generating a certificate signing request, and setting up production certificates and provisioning profiles.

Step 3. App store listing: Developers create an app listing with metadata, pricing, and availability information.

Step 4. Build submission: A release build is created and submitted for review.

Step 5. Review process: Apple's team evaluates the app against their guidelines. As of 2025, 90% of submissions are reviewed within 24 hours.

Step 6. Approval or rejection: If approved, the app is released to the App Store. If rejected, developers must address issues and resubmit.

Google Play Store

Step 1. Submission preparation: First step involves assembling app essentials like the name, descriptions, high-resolution icons, and screenshots.

Step 2. The technical setup requires packaging the application as an APK or App Bundle, using expansion files if the app exceeds 100MB, and generating a secure signing certificate via Android Studio.

Step 3. App description: In Google Play Console, app description includes creating a new app entry with a title, short and long app idea descriptions, and visual assets.

Step 4. App content declaration: The procedure involves specifying the privacy policy URL, advertising/subscription details, and completing the content rating survey.

Step 5. Pricing and distribution: A Google Merchant Account is needed for paid apps, along with selecting pricing and geographic availability.

Step 6. Build submission: In the Play Console's "Release Management" > "App Releases" section, the desired release type is chosen, and the APK or AAB is uploaded.

Step 7. Review process: Ensuring compliance with Google Play policies precedes submission, with reviews generally completed within a few hours.

Step 8. Approval or rejection: Approved apps are published on the Google Play Store, while rejected apps require adjustments based on feedback before resubmission.

Factors affecting app approval:

Validation requirements and technology choice

Choosing between cross-platform and native development relies on understanding platform-specific validation requirements, especially Apple's guidelines on performance, security, and design. Staying updated with these policies helps developers achieve smoother app approval and reduce rejection risks, regardless of the development choice.

Apple policies. Developers must consider that mentioning other platforms in iOS apps can lead to rejection. This may influence the choice of cross-platform frameworks. Apple's strict performance requirements may also push developers towards native development for optimal performance.

UI/UX frameworks. The need to adhere to platform-specific app design guidelines like Apple's Human Interface Guidelines influences the choice of UI frameworks. However, with an experienced design team, it's not a problem to create a cross-platform app with interfaces adjusted to each platform.

Security and privacy. Strict privacy requirements, especially for iOS apps, may impact the selection of backend services and data handling technologies. Choose backend services that offer robust security features, such as end-to-end encryption and secure data storage. Ensure that the service providers comply with industry standards like GDPR or CCPA.

Testing tools. The emphasis on app stability and performance necessitates comprehensive testing, influencing the selection of testing frameworks and tools. Select testing frameworks that cover a broad spectrum of tests, including unit, integration, and performance tests.

API and SDK selection. Developers must choose APIs and SDKs that comply with app store policies to avoid rejection. It's better to opt for the APIs and SDKs from established and reputable providers that regularly update their offerings to meet new compliance and feature requirements.

Staying updated with the latest guidelines and best practices for each app store is essential to maintain compliance and improve the chances of app approval. However, if you're partnering with a development agency, they should handle these aspects and assist in submitting your app.

Conclusion

Choosing the right development strategy is crucial for building a successful mobile app. Native development uses all device features, which is great for apps needing high performance and advanced functionality. This approach suits projects with larger budgets and extended timelines. Cross-platform development can cut costs and reduce time to market, making it ideal for businesses wanting to reach users across platforms quickly. By evaluating project needs, available resources, and long-term goals, businesses can choose a development approach that fits their needs and maximizes the app's impact in the market. The Ronas IT team is happy to help you make the right decision. Fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you soon.