Mobile apps are shaping the future — and you don’t need to be a coder to be part of it.

Whether you’re a business owner, aspiring developer, or just curious about mobile technology, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about mobile app development in 2025. From understanding the basics to launching your first app (with or without code), you’ll find practical insights, tools, and strategies tailored for today’s fast-paced digital world.

Ready to create the next big app? Let’s dive in.

In this blog

1. Best app development methods: How to create an app?
2. An introduction to the concept: What is mobile application development?
3. Benefits of app development: Why develop mobile app software?
4. Approaches to mobile app creation: What are the types of app development?
5. Mobile app development cycle: What are the stages & processes of app development?
6. The timeframe and cost of app development: What all does it take?
7. Latest trends and practices of app development: Where is the industry headed?
8. Frequently asked questions

Best app development methods: How to create an app?

How to become an app developer?

The answer to this question depends on your choice of app development method and how you approach it. We assume you could be targeting one of the following goals:

1. Create your own app development company 
2. Join an app development company as a developer 
3. Offer freelance app development services to customers 
4. Learn basic app development and create an app for your business
5. Train your non-IT employees to become citizen developers

No matter what your app development goal is and what skill level you are at, we have you covered. So, let us cut to the chase and discuss the options without much ado.

(If you are new to the concept of app development, you can scroll to the sections below and learn about the different facets of app development in detail.) 

From the good old method of app coding and programming to the latest no-code development platforms, there are a range of options that you can use for smartphone app development. We have discussed them in ascending order from easy to hard. 

Go through our beginner’s guide to app development and learn how to build an app from scratch:

#1: Create your app with a no-code app builder 

Traditional methods of app development are time-consuming and expensive. By the time an idea finally takes the shape of an app, it is often too late to launch it in the market. Let us not forget that it takes months of training to become a developer and thousands of dollars to develop an app. 

However, thanks to no-code app builders like AppMySite, this trend is now changing.

The monopoly of custom app development agencies stands challenged as anyone can create an app with a no-code app development software on their own. This not only saves ample time and resources, but also bridges the gap between ideas, technology, and execution.

For instance, anyone can build an app with AppMySite’s no-code app builder. From MVP (Minimum Viable Product) to enterprise app development, AppMySite can help you build and scale any kind of project without writing a single line of code.

Everything from development to deployment can be managed under one roof. This enables customers to create feature-rich apps in minutes and reduces the time required to go from concept to market.

You do not have to take our word for it. Rather build your app for free and experience hassle-free app development yourself. Do not worry! It only takes a few steps to build your app with AppMySite without coding. So, you can create your app project instantly and shape it while sipping your coffee. 

Start with signing up for AppMySite and giving a name to your app project. (You can create individual apps or set up your workspace/agency to build multiple apps. Additionally, you can create a custom app from scratch or turn your website into an app. The choice is yours.)

Once you are logged in, you can immediately start designing your app. Use the point-and-click options to create your own logo, app screens, and color theme. Else, simply upload your existing brand assets and artwork. Proceed to finetune the settings of your app and control its look and feel. Preview everything on a live emulator screen and keep perfecting your app as you proceed.

Next, you can import your website’s content and settings and sync it with the app. Else, continue to customize everything from scratch. At this stage, you can also configure and add advanced features to your app. This includes Push Notifications, Chat, Monetization, Analytics, etc. 

Once you are done, you can test your app in real-world environments. Download and preview your apps and deploy them on the app stores when you are ready. You can publish the apps on the Google Play and Apple App Store and earn your audience. For more details, you can check out our document on ‘How to create an app in 10 simple steps?’ and get complete guidance. 

#2: Use low-code solutions with ready-to-use code snippets

If you are aware of the basics of programming and app development and you want a middle-ground between traditional app development and no-code, then opt for low-code technologies. However, you must remember that low-code technologies have a deep learning curve and are not suited for beginners.

Low-code solutions like Zoho Creator, Appian, or Mendix smoothen and streamline the back-end operations but unlike no-code app builders, do not eliminate the need for it. Such tools use code snippets, templates, and pre-built integrations that help you design, develop, and deploy your apps in an environment that is faster than custom app development.

While several no-code app builders can help you pull data from an existing website, low-code app builders may require you to deal with a lot of data input and management. However, you will still be able to work in a fast-track environment where you may get ready-to-use resources for your app development project.

If you are prepared to do some amount of coding and manage your apps in a low-code environment, you can opt for low-code app builders. Remember, this method is easier than coding and custom app development but not as easy as no-code app development.

#3: Learn programming and code with technological frameworks 

Low-code and no-code technologies are evolving and are now being embraced by professional developers as well. However, if you are someone who still wants to take the traditional road, then build your app by using traditional development frameworks along with the necessary technology stack.

Yes, we are talking about programming languages and frameworks. You can pick your technology stack and programming languages based on your app type, platform, and nature of the project. Some popular app development frameworks include React Native, Xamarin, Swiftic, Ionic, and Apache Cordova, among others.

To work with these programming languages and frameworks, you will need to learn coding. If you are a beginner, you can take a full-fledged development course online and learn the art of app coding and programming. There are several free and paid courses that you can opt for, including the one offered by Android Developers. 

Finalize your goals and go with a platform accordingly. Create prototypes before committing to commercial development and perfect your skills. Keep yourself up to date with the latest technologies and trends in the market and deliver the best to your customers.

	No-code app development	Low-code app development	Custom app development
Complexity	Beginner-friendly	Complex	Highly complex
Cost	Low	Medium to High	High
Time	2-7 days	2-4 weeks	6 months
Customizability	Low	Medium	High
App maintenance	Low effort	Medium effort	High effort

An introduction to the concept: What is mobile application development?

Let us now offer you deeper insights related to mobile app development. In layman’s terms, mobile application development is the process of creating software for portable devices like smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, etc.

Mobile app programmers build software bundles that can be installed on mobile devices. In fact, it may come pre-installed on a device or can be distributed via mobile app marketplaces (like Google Play & Apple App Stores) and mobile web browsers.

While this sounds simple, mobile app programming is a complex process and goes beyond just some codes and software compilation.

Notably, Android and iOS are the most popular mobile operating systems and around 99 percent of mobile apps are developed for these platforms. Therefore, mobile app development can be further classified as Android app development and iOS app development.

Building apps for Apple devices like iPhone and iPad differs from developing apps for Android devices. For instance, iOS app developers mostly use programming languages like Swift and Objective-C and Android developers go for Java. Additionally, there has also been an advent of technologies where one may not need to use any programming language at all.

However, at the core, the process of development remains coherent and shares several attributes. It is also noteworthy that while mobile application development dates to the end of the twentieth century, the industry has changed aggressively over the years. While change is constant, the growing demand for apps has been absolute and continues to grow more so.

Benefits of app development: Why develop mobile app software?

Why is mobile app development important? How big is the mobile app industry? Is mobile app programming a good career? Is app development in demand? Why create apps at all?

This section answers all such questions regarding app development. Scroll and find out why you must pursue mobile app development:

Customers prefer mobile apps

Source

The popularity of apps is a no-brainer. There are over 8.93 million apps available for users around the globe. While Google Play Store has more than 3.5 million apps, Apple App Store has more than 1.6 million apps available for download. Clearly, most of us like to consume, purchase, and explore commodities or content via mobile apps. 

Apps are easier to access, more convenient to use, and effortless to navigate. These are some of the many reasons why customers love apps. In fact, data shows that apps outshine websites as users spend 90 percent of their mobile time on apps and only 10 percent on mobile browsers. 

Almost every other study and report indicates the increasing popularity of mobile apps among customers. For instance, there were around 255 billion first-time mobile app downloads in the year 2022. Whereas, during the first half of 2024, users generated around 77 billion app downloads.

Now with the availability of apps that do not require installation, the app usage numbers are only going to rise. Therefore, this is the best time to tap into the market and make the most of it.

Businesses are investing in apps

Data shows that 48 percent (almost half) of all small businesses have a mobile app. 27 percent of small businesses plan on creating an app in the near future. All these numbers clearly indicate that businesses are investing in apps. This includes large, mid-level as well as small businesses.

Investing in apps is also profitable as it ensures better engagement and revenue. Reports suggest that app-based startups have 825 percent higher IPOs than non-app-based startups. 85 percent of shoppers prefer apps over mobile websites for online shopping, ensuring higher ROIs (Return on Investment).

In fact, mobile apps are expected to generate more than 613 billion US dollars in revenue by the end of this year. Moreover, you can always monetize your app and make money even by launching free apps. In short, apps give businesses ample opportunities for growth, revenue, and amplification. 

This is evident to all. Eventually, enterprises as well as organizations, federal bodies, institutions, and even individual celebrities and professionals are creating apps to connect with their audiences and amplify their growth. App developers can cater to all such businesses and entities and earn good revenue.

Mobile app developers are in demand

The demand for mobile apps creates a need for developers by default. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 26 percent increase in jobs for software developers. Above all, app development is also a lucrative employment realm and pays well. 

On an average, according to Qubit Labs, developers earn USD 120,000 in the USA, USD 100,000 in Australia, and around USD 70,000 in the UK annually. Mobile app programmers can join development companies or offer freelance development services and enjoy the flexibility of working without limitations.

Also Read: Top 75+ mobile app statistics – Market size & usage

New technologies have made app development easy

The advent of low-code and no-code technologies, automated mobile app development software, and endless supporting tools has made app development a breeze. This is the best time to become an app developer or open an app development company of your own.

For instance, data suggests that only 0.5 percent of the world’s population knows how to code. Eventually, 85 percent of people agree that no-code tools add value to their lives and 84 percent of people trust no-code tools.

As a result, the global low-code/no-code software development market is expected to generate USD 187 billion in revenue. It is likely to account for more than 65 percent of application development activity by 2024.

You can use these technologies to fast-track app projects, process development and deliver apps in record time with minimal resources. Even if you do not want to take up app development yourself, you can become a reseller or an affiliate partner and sell apps to customers.

Source: Spread Sheet Web

Approaches to mobile app creation: What are the types of app development?

As discussed at the start of the blog, there are several ways to develop apps for mobile operating systems. This typically includes methods like custom app development, low-code app development, and no-code app development.

In this section, we will help you learn about the types of apps you can build. Go through the sections below and learn about the different types of apps you can create as a developer.

Based on OS (Operating System)

Android and iOS are not the only mobile operating systems. However, the two together take up the lion’s share of the market. Therefore, most of the app development projects are centered around these two operating systems.

Whether you want to be an Android developer, or an iOS developer is a matter of choice. Most development teams start with Android as it has a larger user-base. On the other hand, many prefer iOS apps as they generate more revenue.

While we recommend creating apps for both, you can explore both avenues and then decide for yourself:

Android app development

Android, the most popular mobile operating system, was launched in the year 2003 as an open-source project based on the Linux kernel. It has a flexible and open-to-all type of infrastructure. This is the reason why so many brands manufacture hardware for Android.

Android has endless APIs and extensive cloud services that make it easy for developers to create high-functioning apps that are not essentially reliant on device memory and processor. Most Android developers use Java to write the apps, which is easier to work with.

The Android developer website is where most developers start to build an app. While developing Android apps is slightly more complicated than creating iOS apps, it is still one of the most sought-after platforms for developers. Android app development can help you target the biggest app market that is constantly evolving.

iOS app development

iOS is the second most popular operating system and is especially popular in premium markets and first-world countries. iOS app development is all about creating apps for Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, etc.

While iOS app development is comparatively easier than Android app development, Apple has stricter guidelines for submissions. However, Apple’s development ecosystem is straightforward and has several development resources and easy to use SDKs (Software Development Kits) including Xcode, an integrated development environment (IDE).

Swift and Objective-C are the programming languages currently used for developing iOS apps. It is mandatory for iOS developers to have a MAC computer and an Apple Developer Account to be able to launch iOS apps.

Based on the app type

App development can also be classified based on the approach towards development and the type of apps being built. Developers can choose from the following options based on the nature of the project, delivery timeline, availability of resources, and demand of the clients:

Native mobile app development

Native mobile app development refers to the process of creating mobile apps exclusively for a given platform. The apps are written using programming languages and tools specifically meant for the platform (For example, Java and Kotlin for Android; Swift and Objective-C for iOS).

The apps are built for dedicated platforms and devices. Eventually, native Android app development will remain independent of native iOS app development. Notably, native apps ensure better performance and functionalities and are preferred by many.

Cross-platform app development 

Native app development is often time-consuming and costly. That is why several developers prefer cross-platform development. Cross-platform apps work on several platforms and are often built using tools like React Native, Xamarin, Flutter, etc.

While cross-platform app development is faster and easier, it may not produce results as efficiently as native development. Such apps are written on a single code-base and the functionalities and customizations can be limited when compared to native apps.

Progressive web app development

PWAs or Progressive Web Apps are the best alternative to custom app development. Say a business wants its users to work in an app-like environment without forcing them to download or install an app. This is where PWAs can be used as they do not rely on app marketplaces.

PWAs are built using web technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and WebAssembly and can be distributed through the web. Such apps can work offline and exhibit other app-like functionalities without compromising the quality.

Hybrid mobile app development

Hybrid mobile apps are web apps that contain a native shell. The apps are built using web technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc. In simple terms, hybrid apps are websites showcased as apps.

Several tools are used to bridge the gap between the web environment and native devices. With PWAs in the picture, hybrid app development is now less regarded. However, hybrid app development is easier, more pocket-friendly, and suitable for those who want an instant solution.

Mobile app development cycle: What are the stages & processes of app development?

Source: Agile Infoways

App development is not one process but a collection of several steps and processes that together complete the production cycle.

While app development approaches can be unique for each project depending upon its nature, resources, and goals, the basic steps of app development often remain the same. Those steps and processes are as follows:

Research & Planning

While having an app concept is amazing, there is so much more to do before you translate the idea into an app. It is a no-brainer that the efficiency of your project will depend on how great your research is. It will help you save resources and make the most of them in the long run.

Therefore, start with extensive research and planning before you proceed to the development. Start with finding answers to questions like ‘Is there a potential market and audience for the app?’, ‘How strong are the competitors?’, ‘What will be the unique selling proposition of the app’, and so on.

To sum it up, your research should focus on the following:

•  Identification of the potential app market and audience
• Creation of app user personas
• Competitor research (presence, strengths, and weaknesses)
• Budgeting and allocation of resources
• Finalizing an app monetization model
• Establishing app goals and objectives
• Picking the app marketplace (Android &/or iOS)
• Finding the best development method/software
• Setting up a promotion and marketing strategy

Depending upon the uniqueness of your project, you may want to add several steps to the research phase like conducting interviews and surveys, studying existing market data, and so on.

Wireframing & Prototyping

A wireframe is a sketch or a blueprint of software. This skeletal representation of the app helps developers and other team members understand what is expected of the app and what the key tenets of the app will be.

Create a two-dimensional visual guide or skeletal framework for your app. Remember, the main purpose of wireframing and prototyping is not to show how your product will look, but more importantly, how the product will work. Therefore, you will need to define the navigation, page elements, object categories, conversion areas, Call to Action buttons, and more.

UI/UX Design

UI/UX (User Interface/User Experience) designing is one of the most significant aspects of mobile app design and development. User interface designing is the process of creating components that enable users to interact with your app. This includes navigation controls, buttons, and other elements of the app.

While UI is about designing components, UX is all about ensuring that users interact with the app seamlessly. It is the process of designing the end-to-end experience of users with the app. While the experience may be subjective, your design must ensure usefulness, easy accessibility, frictionless navigation, and desirability.

Also Read: The difference between UI and UX: A guide for beginners

Development

Once you have done the research, gathered feedback on your wireframes, and outlined your UI and UX design, you can assemble the technology stack and start the core development process.

The course of this step will depend upon your choice of development method or software. For instance, in the case of custom app development, you will have to start the coding process at this stage. On the other hand, if you choose automated tools and software, you may be required to file your requirements, start low-code programming, or work with a no-code drag-and-drop app builder.

Depending on the nature of the project, the task may be divided into front-end development (design, architecture, features, and interface), back-end development (system architecture, databases, servers, security, and other background processes), and API integrations.

Testing & Deployment

Once the development process is complete, the next step is to test the app inside out. This may involve testing the UI/UX, design, features, functionalities, buttons, and the overall look, performance, content, and feel of the app.

While this may sound simple, testing is actually a rigorous process and critical for any app development project. It is important to identify any flaws, bugs, and shortcomings at this stage to avoid post-launch hazards. You can refer to our complete mobile app testing guide and test your mobile apps like a pro.

Once you are satisfied with the product and all the changes have been implemented, you can go on to deploy and distribute the apps. This is where you submit your app builds (Android &/or iOS) to the marketplace. Typically, this would mean submitting your apps on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. However, depending upon the app type (Example PWAs), you may also share it directly over the web or as a file, URL, QR code, etc.

Post-launch Support

By this stage, your app will have passed the review and will be ready for users to download and install. We recommend optimizing your app for the app stores to ensure better ranks and visibility. Once the app is up and running, your team should be ready to offer any post-launch support to the customers and stakeholders.

Help your new and existing users discover the app and get familiar with it. Start collecting usage insights, reviews, ratings, and feedback and use it to enhance your app’s design, content, and offerings. Launch app updates based on the feedback and enhance your product. Next, proceed to market your app and increase engagement.

The timeframe and cost of app development: What all does it take?

How much does it cost to build an app? How long does it take to build an app? For those new to app development, these queries are common. In this section, we will answer these questions and discuss the time and cost involved in developing mobile apps.

It is important to understand that time and cost go hand in hand for any development project. A longer timeline often contributes to an increase in logistical costs. Moreover, many developers charge more for delivering an app project faster.

On the other hand, if an app project gets delivered faster, all the time that you save will be worth the money. This can leave app owners with more time to spend on post-launch marketing, support, promotions, etc.

Sounds confusing? Let us break the two and get into the details:

Time taken to build an app

The timeframe of an app development project is affected by several factors like availability of resources, strength of the team, span of the research, type of the app, complexity of design and features, and more. Clearly, the time frame will be different for different projects.

However, if you go for custom app development, the average time taken will be the sum of several processes. This includes:

• Research and Planning: 2 to 3 weeks
• Wireframing and Designing: 2 to 4 weeks
• App Development: 3 to 9 months
• Testing and Launch: 3 to 4 weeks

Clearly, it may take around a year to build an app and scale it to its full potential. However, this is just one way to look at it. The process can be expedited with the use of a bigger and more efficient team.

Additionally, low-code and no-code app development technologies can also put your projects on a fast track. Such technologies can automate several aspects of the project and reduce the timeline of development. The time taken by non-traditional methods of app development is as follows:

• Low-code app development software: 1 to 4 weeks
• No-code app development software: Less than a day

Under ideal conditions, low-code and no-code app builders can help you expedite the app development lifecycle and build an app much faster. For instance, if you are building your app with AppMySite, you can create your app in less than fifteen minutes. However, the final timeframe of your project will depend on your goals and approach.

Cost of developing an app

Just like time, the cost of app development is also influenced by diverse factors. This may include the location of the app development company, scale of production, method of app development, complexities of design and features, total billable hours, targeted platform (Android &/or iOS), etc.

For instance, the more complex the features, the higher the cost will be. Similarly, a design and artwork-heavy app may cost more. No-code software solutions may cost way less than traditional methods of app development. Creating a food delivery app like UberEATS may cost more than creating a basic grocery delivery app.

These are just a few examples. However, the average cost of app development can be anywhere from USD 15,000 to USD 300,000. To simplify things, on an average, the cost of an app development project can be as follows:

• Low complexity app: USD 15,000+
• Medium complexity app: USD 28,000+
• High complexity app: USD 50,000+
• Very high complexity app: USD 120,000+

Remember, this is just an average layout of the cost of custom app development. The final costs will differ for each project. However, if you want to dodge hidden pricing and want more straightforward packages, you should look for solutions that state their prices and packages upfront. You can also go through our extensive mobile app development cost guide and learn more about the topic in detail.

Source

Latest trends and practices of app development: Where is the industry headed?

Before taking up development, you must be aware of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices that are a part of the mobile app development industry. Here are some of the trends and practices that will remain relevant in the development realm in the coming future:

User-centric design and content

It is the age of the Internet, and every customer has access to endless resources and options. Customers have become smart, and they do not waste their time and resources on “average products or services”. Therefore, it has become important for every business to think like a customer and work accordingly.

The same goes for app design and development. From easy navigation to one-click access to menu and support, apps are being designed keeping the user’s ease and convenience in mind. Therefore, the app must simplify the user’s journey and make them feel rewarded. This in turn will earn you more user engagement, interactions, and loyalty.

Realistic audio-visual experiences

The use of AR/VR (Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality), and IoT (Internet of Things) is observing a new high with respect to app development. From shopping apps that offer virtual trials of products to real estate apps that offer property tours, technology has redefined what apps can do.

While your app may not necessarily rely on such technologies to fulfill its goal, you can still enhance its appeal with the right kind of UI/UX. Design these components of your app keeping your users in mind and ensure seamless navigation and rich experiences for users. Add high-quality media and content and offer a seamless and synchronized experience to customers across platforms.

Rapid development and instant apps

Instant apps and instant app development tools are the need of the hour. Many customers want to bypass the process of downloading apps and still want the app-like experience. This is where PWAs (Progressive Web Apps) come into the picture. From accessing a restaurant menu to paying for a parking ticket, instant apps can be used anywhere. It is for this reason that every F&B business wants to develop a restaurant mobile app of their own.

On the other hand, businesses are also looking forward to fast and automated technologies to build and launch their apps. Low-code and no-code development platforms, user-friendly frameworks, etc., are meeting such demands and allowing developers to work in a fast-paced app development ecosystem.

Robust security and smart integrations

Ever wondered why some brands like Apple are so focused on security and performance? It is because the increasing pool of technology and its accessibility also increases the demand for heightened security and reliable performance. This is one of the most significant practices that developers must adhere to.

As you program your app, make sure that it is fed with smart and up-to-date technologies. From smart data encryption to safe payment transactions, there is much to cover in this realm. With an increase in the use of mobile wallets and biometric login systems, the demand for app security will also rise in the coming time.

Future-ready design and development

Your app need not have the ability to find water on a nearby planet. However, it should be efficient enough to align with the changing technologies and demands of the customers. A future-ready design and modern approach towards development is what developers must be willing to have in this age.

From advanced AI (Artificial Intelligence) to 5G, foldable devices, beacon technology, big data analytics, and many more, the app development industry is being influenced by rapid technological advancements. While there is no need to incorporate them all, your app must be future-ready and growth-centric at large.

Also Read: ChatGPT and App Development: Here’s all you need to know

Summing up…

That was all about mobile app development and the latest trends and practices of the industry. To sum it up, mobile app development is profitable, there are smarter ways to develop apps within optimized budgets and timeframes, and the future of apps is bright.

Whether you are a developer who wants to venture into custom app development or a business owner who knows nothing about programming and still wants an app, there is a solution for everyone. Use the right resources and tools and make the most of it.

Look for the best no-code mobile app development software or learn coding. Start basic app development or code advanced-level apps. Build your own app or get the best mobile app development company to build it for you. Above all, choose a platform that allows you to do both and scale your projects as desired.

The choice is yours, and so is the comment section below. Take on app development with all your might and let us know in the comments if you have any further questions, doubts, or concerns. Do not forget to drop your feedback as we love to hear from you. 

Frequently asked questions