Developing a mobile app is no small task. One of the first decisions developers face is choosing between two major platforms, iOS and Android. Both ecosystems boast millions of users and countless apps, but when it comes to speed of development, the two operate very differently.

Whether you’re a startup founder looking to release an MVP or a business optimizing for time-to-market, understanding which platform enables faster mobile application development can help you make better decisions. This post dives into both iOS and Android development cycles, compares their processes, and helps you identify which platform might be the right fit for your timeline.

What Affects Mobile App Development Speed?

Before examining each platform, it’s essential to understand the factors that impact how quickly an app gets developed. These factors are relevant to both iOS and Android:

• Programming Languages

The coding language used to create an app affects complexity, debugging, and how long it takes to write code.

• Development Tools & IDEs (Integrated Development Environments)

The accessibility and efficiency of development tools play a crucial role in streamlining workflows.

• Testing & Debugging Requirements

Does the platform make it easier to identify and fix issues? How extensive is the testing phase?

• Compatibility & Fragmentation

How many devices, software versions, and configurations does the platform need to support?

• App Store Submission Process

The time it takes to test and approve apps for publication also influences speed.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dig deeper into how iOS and Android compare in these areas.

iOS Development Speed

Apple’s iOS is known for its streamlined development experience. Here’s what it offers:

1. Programming Language (Swift vs. Objective-C)

Apple encourages developers to build apps using Swift, its modern programming language. Swift is designed for simplicity and performance, allowing developers to write fewer lines of code compared to older languages like Objective-C. Faster coding means faster development.

According to a report by JetBrains, Swift is one of the fastest-growing programming languages. This adoption has largely been driven by its speed and straightforward syntax, making it a favorite for iOS apps.

2. Unified Ecosystem

iOS development benefits from Apple’s closed ecosystem. Unlike Android, which spans multiple manufacturers, iOS apps are developed for a small number of devices (iPhones, iPads, and a few others). This means developers don’t have to worry about countless screen sizes or hardware configurations, reducing time spent on compatibility testing.

Additionally, iOS users often upgrade to the latest iOS versions quickly. This minimizes backwards compatibility concerns for developers, as they can prioritize the most recent iOS version.

3. Xcode and Development Tools

Apple’s Xcode IDE provides everything developers need for iOS app creation, including a fast compiler, intuitive interface, robust simulator, and testing tools. This all-in-one development environment eliminates the need for third-party tools, further saving time.

4. App Store Review Process

One of the potential downsides of iOS development is the App Store submission process. Apple’s strict guidelines mean it can take days, or even weeks, for an app to be reviewed and approved. While this ensures high-quality apps in the App Store, it may slow down the final stages of app deployment.

5. Design Consistency

When working within Apple’s ecosystem, design guidelines are simpler. Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines (HIG) make it easier for developers to create visually consistent and compliant designs across devices, speeding up the design and prototype phases.

Verdict for iOS

• Strengths: Swift programming, minimal fragmentation, robust tools in Xcode
• Weaknesses: Slower App Store review process

Overall, iOS development tends to be faster during the coding and testing phases, but delays could occur during App Store submission.

Android Development Speed

Developing for Android has a wider reach, but it often comes with complexities that may impact development speed.

1. Programming Languages (Java & Kotlin)

Android apps are typically built using Java or Kotlin. While Java has been the default for years, Kotlin has emerged as the modern, developer-friendly language for Android development. Kotlin’s concise syntax simplifies programming, combats boilerplate code, and reduces overall development time.

However, Java’s longstanding presence means there are more legacy apps, and many developers may still encounter Java-based projects that are harder to update or optimize compared to Kotlin-built apps.

2. Fragmentation Across Devices

Android supports a huge number of devices, brands, and screen sizes, resulting in device fragmentation. Developers need to test their apps on various configurations to ensure compatibility. This increases time spent debugging and refining user experiences across different devices.

A 2023 survey showed that over 70% of Android users run different OS versions. This makes development more complex, as developers must often support older versions of Android, unlike iOS where users regularly update their devices.

3. Tools & IDEs

Android developers use Android Studio, a comprehensive IDE that offers emulator tools, debugging features, and integration with third-party libraries. While Android Studio is powerful, some developers report that it’s not as polished or fast as Apple’s Xcode.

Android Studio allows more flexibility for customization, which can sometimes increase the time required to configure certain features.

4. Play Store Submission

An advantage of Android development lies in its Google Play Store submission process. Compared to iOS, apps on Android can be submitted and approved much more quickly, often within a few hours, speeding up the launch phase.

5. Open-Source Flexibility

Android’s open-source nature gives developers more freedom to create unique features. However, this flexibility occasionally comes with increased time requirements for testing and fine-tuning.

Verdict for Android

• Strengths: Flexible open-source environment, fast Play Store approvals
• Weaknesses: Significant device fragmentation and slower development due to testing

Android development often takes more time during testing and compatibility adjustments, but Android’s fast submission process can be appealing to developers in a hurry to launch.

iOS vs. Android Development Comparison Table

Choosing the Faster Platform for Your Needs

If you’re pressed for time to get an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) or the first version of your app live, iOS might be the better option. Its streamlined ecosystem, powerful tools, and uniform device base enable quicker coding and testing cycles. However, if flexibility is more important and you plan to appeal to a larger audience, Android could also work well.

It’s important to note that for long-term success, your choice shouldn’t only be based on speed. Consider your target audience, budget, and app functionality before committing to a platform. For example, if your audience is evenly split between iOS and Android users, developing for both platforms simultaneously using cross-platform frameworks like Flutter or React Native might make sense.

Leverage Speed with the Right Tools

Both iOS and Android come with unique challenges, but they also offer incredible opportunities for innovation. The key is to leverage the tools, frameworks, and best practices each platform offers to work efficiently.

Do you need even more insight, tips, or tools to streamline your mobile app development? Look no further—we’ve got resources and expert advice at OriginallyUS to help. Start your development process today with confidence!