When entrepreneurs consider development services for creating a mobile application, they face a crucial decision: what approach to take to ensure efficiency and quicker launch. One popular choice is React Native app development, which allows businesses to develop powerful apps for both iOS and Android. Whether you're just starting your project or looking to optimize an existing one, understanding the benefits of React Native and how to effectively outsource its development services can be pivotal. In this article, we'll explore why React Native app development is favored by many, and how choosing the right development services can help bring your React Native app ideas to life.

What is React Native?

React Native is a mobile app development framework that allows you to build applications for both iOS and Android using one codebase. This means you can create one app that works on both platforms without building separate apps for each. This is a huge time-saver compared to native app development with Swift and Kotlin.

Developers create such apps using JavaScript, a common programming language used in most web products. React Native then translates this into the native code that devices understand. This results in apps that run smoothly, much like ones built with native technologies.

Pros and cons of React Native app development

Before outsourcing React Native development, you need to find out whether it can help your business or become an obstacle for your growth. Let's look at major advantages of React Native:

• Cross-platform development: As we've already mentioned, with React Native development, you write your code once, and it can run on both platforms.
• Native performance: Even though you're writing your app in JavaScript, React Native compiles down to native code. This means the app will perform similarly to a native app written in Objective-C, Swift for iOS, or Java/Kotlin for Android.
• Large community and ecosystem: React Native has a large community of developers and a vast ecosystem of libraries and tools you can use to add functionality to your React Native app without building everything from scratch.
• Cost-effective development: Because React Native allows you to use a single codebase for both iOS and Android apps, you can significantly reduce the cost and time required for app development. Plus, you don't need two separate teams for iOS and Android development. A single mobile development team can handle both, simplifying project management and communication. This is critical for startups and small businesses that need to manage budgets carefully.
• Faster time to market: The ability to develop apps for multiple platforms simultaneously means you can launch your product more quickly. Getting your React Native app to market faster can be crucial for capturing audience interest, gaining user feedback, and staying ahead of competitors.
• Rapid iteration and updates: React Native supports hot reloading, which allows you to see changes in your app almost instantly as you modify your code. This makes it much faster and easier to experiment and iterate during app development. This agility is important for responding to user feedback and adopting market changes swiftly.
• Access to a large talent pool: JavaScript is a widely-used programming language, and many developers are familiar with React Native. This broadens your options when hiring, potentially reducing costs and simplifying recruitment.
• Proven by big brands: React Native was developed by Facebook, and many large companies use it in app development, which adds a level of credibility and trust in its reliability and effectiveness. Knowing that big players trust React Native can give you confidence in its capabilities.

React Native development lets you bring your mobile app ideas to life quickly and efficiently, making it a great choice for entrepreneurs entering the competitive app market with limited resources. However, it does have some downsides that you should consider.

1. Although React Native development covers many features, certain complex or unique tasks might require native code. This means you might still need developers familiar with iOS and Android to handle these specific tasks. Here are a few examples:
   • Advanced graphics and animations: For apps that require complex graphics or animations, such as games or design tools, you might need to use native development services to achieve the best performance and visual effects.
   • Access to new device features: When new hardware features (like a new type of sensor or an updated camera function) come out, native code might be necessary to access these innovations before React Native fully supports them.
   • Complex background processing: Some heavy background tasks or services, which require precise and efficient performance, might need native app development to maintain smooth operation without affecting the app's responsiveness.
   • Custom user interfaces: If your app needs a very specific look or behavior that's not easily achievable with React Native's components or libraries, you might have to implement parts of the user interface in native code to meet your design requirements.
2. Performance can occasionally be an issue, especially for graphics-heavy apps like high-end games. While React Native development is efficient for most apps, those that demand a lot of device resources might require pure native app development for optimal performance.
3. Compatibility issues can arise. React Native development depends on various third-party libraries, which may not always be up-to-date or fully compatible with the latest versions of iOS or Android, leading to potential maintenance challenges.

Now let's see which other options you have apart from React Native app development. There are several types of development services that can help you create a mobile app for your business.

React Native development vs native app development vs WebView development

When considering app development options, entrepreneurs often weigh the benefits of React Native against native and WebView development services. Each approach has distinct advantages and is suitable for different types of projects.

React Native app development

React Native allows developers to build apps with reusable native UI components that communicate with the operating system. The operating system is aided by a feature called hot reloading, which lets engineers instantly see changes during app development without recompiling. Companies like Instagram and Airbnb have used React Native to develop parts of their apps, taking advantage of its component-based architecture and fast iteration for quick updates.

Also, since React Native's code and logic are based on React, you can use your mobile app's code in web development to create the frontend part for the product's web version. This approach is best for entrepreneurs who want to reduce time-to-market and maintain a single codebase for several platforms. It offers a solid balance between performance and development efficiency for most standard app functionalities.

Example

Once a startup called Lainappi requested our development services to create an app for renting items. We were tasked with building an MVP of the app in three months to help our client test the market. Originally, the plan was to create the iOS app first and then the Android app. To save budget and reach users on both platforms, Lainappi chose React Native development for a quick launch. We used react-native-maps and expo-location for mapping and location, and @react-navigation for smooth navigation. By focusing on core features, we launched the React Native app in just 3 months. We still work with Lainappi, improving the app with new features and design updates.

Native app development

Native app development uses Swift or Objective-C for iOS and Java or Kotlin for Android, giving full access to all device features and resources. Developers can create custom animations and user interfaces, fully using each platform's features. Apps like Pokemon GO rely on native app development to work at peak performance and responsiveness, often necessary for high-performance apps and those using complex animations. This approach requires more resources but if your app needs maximum performance, uses complex animations, or needs to access hardware features like new sensors or AR capabilities, native app development is the right choice.

Example

Hamperapp, based in Florida, offers laundry and dry cleaning services online for both people and businesses like hotels and restaurants. To reach more customers, they decided to create an app to automate their processes and requested our development services. We found four main types of users who use Hamperapp, so we needed to design simple interfaces for each one. We used Laravel for the backend and Angular for the web app and admin panel. For the mobile app, the team chose native app development for a better performance and higher flexibility, using Swift for iOS and Kotlin for Android. We successfully designed and developed all four interfaces and continue to support Hamperapp's growth. The native app helped them expand their laundry service to 78 locations in two states. Originally a service for individual customers, they now also serve businesses. By the end of 2022, the app had handled 47,521 orders. Our native app development services help Hamperapp find new customers and grow their business.

WebView development

WebView tools like Cordova use web development technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript inside a shell that looks like a native app. They expand features through plugins that access device capabilities, although not as deeply as native code. They allow you to keep one codebase for both web and mobile. Startups or projects needing quick prototypes often choose WebView development services to roll out basic features on a budget. They're best for projects aiming for a fast, low-cost start, though they might lack the polish and speed of a native or a React Native app, making them better for simpler applications. If you already have a web app, it makes sense to try this approach, especially when budget is a concern.

Example

UK Retreats is a company that helps people find unique and affordable places to stay in the UK. To boost their service, they wanted to create a digital community called UKR Club for property owners and customers. Already having a database of unique stays, they aimed to add value and turn social media followers into app users. One of our goals in the collaboration was to simplify and cut costs for the UKR Club application development project.

Their audience mainly uses mobile devices, however, to stay within budget, we decided against making both a native app and a website. Instead, we built a simple mobile-first web app using React and Laravel. This way, when a user opens the app from their smartphone, it looks like a mobile app. Our web development solution delivered the core functions they needed, matched their values, and met budget and time constraints. The project was completed in three months. Although this approach is not the same as WebView app development, the concept is similar — if you need to create both a web app and a mobile one but have budget constraints, you can either use WebView tools or develop a web app with mobile-first design.

Choosing between these methods depends on what your project needs. React Native is good for general app development, native is the best for high performance, and WebView tools offer quick and simple solutions, though they might not perform as well. Consider your software development project's goals to decide which path is the right one.

Why outsource React Native development?

Outsourcing React Native app development can be a strategic move for entrepreneurs. Here's why it's worth considering:

Working with an app development company that specializes in React Native can provide access to a pool of experienced developers. These professionals are well-versed in the latest tools and practices in React Native app development, which can significantly boost the quality and functionality of your app.

For instance, our team has created over 30 React Native apps for industries such as betting, real estate, fintech, delivery, and marketplace to name a few. Our React Native developers consistently experiment with and incorporate the latest technologies across all areas of mobile app development. This encompasses architecture, navigation, software development kits (SDKs), application programming interfaces (APIs), user interface (UI) libraries, automated testing, and more. In mobile development, we follow the guidelines set by Apple and Google, ensuring smooth and timely launches on the App Store and Google Play Store.

When you outsource React Native app development services, you often reduce overhead costs. According to a report by Deloitte, a renowned global firm specializing in professional services, approximately 70% of companies worldwide are opting for outsourcing to reduce their operational costs. By engaging an external team, you avoid the expenses associated with hiring, training, and maintaining an in-house application development team. This can be particularly beneficial for startups or small businesses working with limited resources.

At Ronas IT, every app development project begins with an analytical phase. During this time, we conduct preparatory tasks to optimize both React Native app development time and resources, aiming to successfully bring the product to market. Our analyst collaborates with the client to create a clear product vision. As a result, the client receives:

• A detailed breakdown of the project features, formatted as user stories.
• An estimate of design time and cost.
• An approximate React Native development cost estimate.
• A clear understanding of the project's vision.

An app development company can assist with scaling your project as it grows. They can provide the necessary manpower and expertise to handle increased workload or integrate more complex features. This flexibility allows you to adapt quickly to market demands without disrupting your React Native app development process.

Outsourcing can help you focus on your core business activities. By letting a React Native development company handle the technical side of React Native app development, you can dedicate more time and energy to strategy, marketing, and other essential operations.

Our React Native development company collaborates with clients even after launching the initial version of the app. We can refine the product in response to user feedback and introduce new features. Our developers make sure the software operates smoothly and address any issues. If you're interested in mobile app development with React Native, you can contact us by filling out the short form below, and we will discuss your project.

How to outsource React Native development: Quick guide

Finding the right partner to outsource React Native development involves knowing where to look and what criteria to consider.

Start by searching for a React Native development company on platforms like Clutch, Upwork, or LinkedIn. These sites host profiles of many companies and individual developers who specialize in React Native app development. You can read reviews, check portfolios, and compare different providers to find a good match for your needs.

Once you've identified some candidates, evaluate their experience and skills in React Native development. A reliable app development company should have a history of delivering good React Native applications. Look at case studies and client feedback to see how they have managed similar projects.

Communication is crucial when you outsource React Native development. Choose a React Native development company that keeps clear and frequent communication. Regular updates and having a dedicated project manager can ensure everyone stays on the same page during the application development process.

Cost is another important factor. While you might be tempted to go for the cheapest option, it's key to balance cost with quality. A good app development company will deliver value by building an application that meets your needs and works well. However, if you have budget constraints, it shouldn't be a problem — the provider of development services can find a solution that fits your budget while solving business tasks.

Usually, the cost of a React Native project can vary from $20.000 to $300.000. Here's a map with average hourly rates of React Native developers worldwide. It can give you an idea of how much React Native development can cost.

Also, think about the company's ability to grow and change. As your React Native application develops, you might need more developers or new features. Choose an outsourcing partner that can handle growth and adapt as needed in the mobile development process.

By searching in the right places and assessing potential partners with these factors, you can effectively outsource React Native development to build a working app.

What is the future of React Native development?

The React Native framework is expected to become even better in the future. Developers are actively working on making React Native faster and more stable.

New architecture

A big change is the new React Native architecture which is designed to be modular, meaning different code parts can be updated independently, making maintenance and adding new features easier. It includes the Fabric system for faster, smoother UI, and TurboModules for more efficient integration with native code by loading modules only when needed, which speeds up startup times. It also improves the interaction between JavaScript and native code, making apps more efficient, especially for complex tasks. Although not a part of the architecture itself, Hermes is a new JavaScript engine that complements these changes by improving app startup time and performance on Android.

Growing community and ecosystem

React Native's strength lies in its active community, which creates useful tools like React Navigation and Redux to support app development. React Navigation is a library that helps developers manage the navigation within their app. It provides tools to create navigation flows, manage screen transitions, and handle user input related to navigation in a smooth and user-friendly way. Redux is a state management library that's often used with React Native. It helps manage the data of an app in a predictable way, which is crucial for maintaining complex applications where many different components need to access and update the same data. At Ronas IT, we often use these tools in our projects.

These tools and libraries simplify many aspects of React Native app development, making it faster and easier for developers to create high-quality apps. They provide ready-made solutions for common needs, reducing the amount of code developers have to write from scratch.

Integrations with other technologies

Developers are also using React Native with new technologies like machine learning through TensorFlow.js or Brain.js and augmented reality with ViroReact. By integrating these technologies, React Native apps can perform complex tasks and provide more engaging user experiences. For instance, an app can recognize and suggest products from a photo or create a virtual tour guide that interacts with the real world around the user.

Advancing DevOps tools for mobile apps

Modern DevOps tools enable automation of repetitive tasks in React Native app development, such as building, compiling, and packaging the app. This means that once the code is written, the process of turning it into a functional app is automated, saving developers a lot of time and reducing human error. CI/CD pipelines are also becoming more robust in React Native development. Continuous Integration refers to the practice of merging code changes into a shared repository frequently, often multiple times a day. Automated tests run on each change to catch defects early. Continuous Deployment ensures that these changes can be automatically released to end users, ensuring that updates go live more regularly.

Focus on security

Security is important as apps now face more threats. Work is being done to make React Native apps safer with data encryption and secure login methods. Data encryption converts data into a code to prevent unauthorized access. For React Native apps, this means sensitive information, like user data or payment details, is encrypted both while being stored (at rest) and during transmission (in transit) between the app and the server. This helps protect against data breaches and ensures that even if data is intercepted, it can't be easily read or used by attackers. Secure authentication methods include using strong passwords, two-factor authentication (2FA), or biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition. These methods help verify the identity of users more reliably, making it harder for unauthorized users to gain access to accounts. Keeping the app and its libraries updated with the latest security patches is also crucial. This involves regularly updating the React Native framework and any third-party libraries to protect against known vulnerabilities.

If you're hesitant about developing a React Native app, these advancements of the framework indicate a positive trend. Improvements in performance, stability, and security, along with strong community support, make React Native development a reliable choice.

Wrapping up

Deciding whether to outsource React Native app development is a strategic choice that can significantly influence the success of your mobile app project. Engaging with a professional app development company specializing in React Native app development service provides access to experienced developers who are well-versed in the latest tools and practices. This can greatly enhance the quality and functionality of your React Native app.

By outsourcing, you often reduce overhead costs associated with hiring and maintaining an in-house team, which is particularly beneficial for startups and small businesses operating with limited resources. Additionally, a React Native development vendor can offer scalability, adapting to project growth by integrating new features and managing increased workloads. Outsourcing allows you to focus on core business activities, as the app development vendor's expertise in React Native ensures that the technical aspects are managed efficiently. After the initial app launch, continuous support from a software development service provider can help in refining the product based on user feedback.

To hire React Native developers, look for a reliable vendor on platforms like Clutch, Upwork, or LinkedIn. It's crucial to evaluate candidates based on their experience, case studies, client feedback, and their communication and project management capabilities. While cost is an important consideration, balancing quality with budget constraints will ensure the development services you receive deliver the value your business needs.