If your startup is about to create its first enterprise mobile application, one of the factors you need to consider is which platform to use. Should it be iOS or Android? Choosing the right platform for your mobile app is not as easy as you think. There are several factors you have to keep in mind, including the differing behavior of iOS and Android users. ≤
The two platforms are used for creating native apps. These are built for a specific device, i.e. iOS for iPhone and Android for Android smartphones and tablets. Thus, iOS apps won’t work on Android devices, and vice versa. As such, studying your platform options before choosing one for your enterprise mobile application is essential, especially if you want to target the right consumers.
If you’re stuck and can’t decide which one to prioritize, here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose the right operating system for your first enterprise mobile application.
iPhone users are more willing to spend on apps than Android consumers. Play Store users prefer free apps over paid ones. As such, if you plan to charge for downloads, the ideal mobile operating system is iOS.
Where Your Audience Is
While statistics show that Android is the most used mobile OS worldwide, do not assume that your target audience and consumers are all using the said platform. Focus on identifying where the bulk of your market is residing. For example, if your users are from North America or any other Western country, go for iOS because it’s the most dominant there. If you are targeting a global audience, choose Android.
User Demographics
Another vital factor to consider is the kind of users you are targeting. Find time to research demographics. For example, what is the typical buyer behavior of iPhone users? Are they willing to spend more on their devices than Android users? What preferences do Android users have?
If you’re planning an enterprise mobile application for the younger audience, iOS is the way to go. If your goal is to reach out and satisfy a more mature and financially conservative group, then your best bet is Android.
Revenue and Purchases
One of your goals for building an enterprise mobile application is to monetize or collect revenue. iOS and Android users vary significantly in this area.
iPhone users are more willing to spend on apps than Android consumers. Play Store users prefer free apps over paid ones. As such, if you plan to charge for downloads, the ideal mobile operating system is iOS. You should also take into consideration that there are more paid apps in iOS than in Android.
However, if your monetization plan for your enterprise mobile application includes collecting revenue from in-app purchases and advertisements, go with Android. Google apps are more affordable than Apple’s, but since Android is the most used platform globally with the most number of users, you are still guaranteed to get significant revenues.
The Number of Tablet Users
An enterprise mobile application is accessible not only through smartphones but also via tablets. Thus, it is also vital to consider the number of tablet users for each OS.
For this setup, the obvious winner is Android because both smartphones and tablets use the same operating system. The iOS is exclusive only to the iPhone smartphone. For Apple’s tablets (iPad, iPad Mini, and iPad Pro), the iPadOS platform is used.
If you want an enterprise mobile application that can reach a wider and more diverse audience, choose Android. Its concept and system are intended for almost all types of users, including the masses with low purchasing power.
Security and Features
Android is open source, while iOS is a closed ecosystem. This means that iOS has a stricter and uniform standard than Android, which is open to third-party providers and developers. Therefore, it is more susceptible to malware and pirated apps.
However, in terms of features, Android is more flexible. Since it is an open-source system, it’s easier and more convenient for you to customize your app. Building an app that your audiences want and need is simpler.
Reach
If you want an enterprise mobile application that can reach a wider and more diverse audience, choose Android. Its concept and system are intended for almost all types of users, including the masses with low purchasing power. iOS, however, is more ideal for class ABC.
As such, if you want your application to reach a wider audience, and become a household name in no time, build your first enterprise mobile application on the Android platform.
However, if you want to target a particular niche, like the banking industry, the security that iOS offers is what makes it a top-notch choice.
The Frequency of Operating System Update
Managing your enterprise mobile application is essential if you want to ensure its superior performance. This is why considering the frequency of the OS updates for each platform matters. Apple devices are ahead in this department as the iOS platform automatically and regularly comes up with updates.
Likewise, more iOS users tend to update their operating system as compared to Android users. A study conducted back in 2017 revealed that there are Android users whose operating systems are over two years old. Things haven’t changed much since then.
iOS mobile applications are ideal for audiences who can afford to spend on downloads & additional purchases.
Choose Android if your users are financially conscious of their spending.
Development Cost
One of the reasons why many developers prefer building on iOS is its code, which is Swift. Compared to building on Android’s Java, developing an enterprise mobile application on iOS is easier, more efficient, cheaper, and faster. There may be some strict App Store guidelines and Apple standards to consider, but it’s still the more practical option than Android.
Using Java to develop an enterprise mobile application will take more stages to finish because you (or your developers) need to spend more time writing codes. Also, since Android is open source, there are multiple components and devices to consider in the development process. iOS only services the iPhone. Android, on the other hand, caters to many smartphone brands, including Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, OnePlus 8, Oppo Find, Xiaomi Mi, and Motorola Edge.
Conclusion
Even with all the tips and suggestions mentioned above, deciding on your first enterprise mobile application’s ideal platform can still be a challenge. Considering the most vital factors may help, though.
To summarize, the iOS mobile operating system is ideal for audiences who can afford to spend on downloads & additional purchases, and those who live in affluent regions (like the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, and Western Europe). Also, if you want more revenue opportunities, iOS is the right choice.
The iOS platform is also fit for your enterprise mobile application if you value security, user satisfaction (ease of use), app flexibility, and management.
Choose Android app development if your users are financially conscious of their spending. It is intended for the developing markets of Latin America, Africa, and Asia. If your revenue option is in-app purchases, this is also the best platform for you. Android is also the ideal choice if your goal is to be globally recognized.
