Now is the time to build your mobile app. With the number of smartphone users projected to hit five billion by 2019, apps are becoming more widespread than ever.
Not every smartphone user has the same type of phone. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that your app can run on different operating systems and devices.
Developing your cross-platform app using hybrid frameworks is rewarding. Your app will reach a larger audience, and it will be easier for anyone to access it.
As you begin to create your cross-platform app, you come to a crossroads: which hybrid app framework should you use? Fortunately, there are several frameworks that you can choose from. Here are some of the best hybrid app frameworks that you should consider using:
Ionic
Ionic is a completely free and open-source way to build your hybrid app. With Ionic, you can develop your app using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This framework also utilizes AngularJS, making it easier to build compelling applications.
Ionic comes with various tools to make your app interactive and user-friendly. Better yet, it allows you to use one code base to develop your app for every operating system.
PhoneGap
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are the only tools you need to know to build on PhoneGap. In addition, PhoneGap offers all of the technology you need to build your app: access to a community of web developers and the ability to compile your app in the cloud.
PhoneGap also allows you to use their mobile app to test out your app in real-time. This framework also gives you the option to download their desktop app, letting you develop your app using a graphical user interface.
Xamarin
Owned by Microsoft, Xamarin offers some of the most advanced tools to build your app. Your app can be available across multiple platforms with only one code base. Despite its use on different operating systems, your app will offer a native experience and a clean interface.
Its simplicity is one of the reasons why Xamarin is one of the best web frameworks of 2018. Xamarin is a huge time-saver–you have the option to recycle your tools, code, and other functions. Although this framework is open-source, you can pay to gain access to Visual Studio, which provides support, training, cloud features, as well as other helpful technologies for developers.
NativeScript
Many app developers turn to NativeScript to develop their apps using JavaScript, TypeScript, CSS, Angular, and Vue.js. NativeScript is also free and open-source, making it affordable for any developer.
NativeScript enables you to create a smooth-running app with no web views. Not only can you make an app that will run on any operating system, but you can also tweak the UI to fit certain devices.
React Native
If you’re an advanced developer, try React Native. This is one of the best frameworks for web applications, as well as mobile. Once you’re finished creating your app, you can expect it to run like it’s native to any device.
You might get stumped as you build your app. Luckily, React Native’s huge community of web developers is always available for assistance and advice.
Kendo UI
Kendo UI lets you develop your mobile app using JavaScript, as well as jQuery, Angular, Vue, and React. With its incorporation of UI features such as charts, data grid components, schedules, spreadsheets, and more, you can make a remarkably interactive app. You have the option to add these UI features to your current design, or you can access Kendo UI’s extensive library of design templates.
Kendo UI is a bit pricey, but for all of the features it offers, it’s worth it. Paying the hefty price tag can get you access to support, training, and jQuery, Angular, Vue, and React libraries.
Framework 7
Framework 7 is another one of the best affordable mobile frameworks that you can use to build your app for Apple and Android devices. Your app will always retain a native appearance and scrolling functions.
If you already know how to build a website, you’ll have no problem building an app on Framework 7. Knowing HTML, CSS and JavaScript is enough to get started. You can also choose to use Framework 7 with Vue.js as well as React.js.
Onsen UI
Although Onsen UI is fairly new, it still rivals some of the bigger names in hybrid app frameworks. You’re able to pick frameworks such as Angular, Angular 2, React, Vue.js, and Meteor, or you can alternate between all of them. If you’re a JavaScript fan, you can also build your app using just that.
Onsen UI comes with a selection of components that you can use to build your app. If you want to build a more functional app, you can write your app in HTML5 and JavaScript and then integrate it with PhoneGap or Cordova to build it.
Mobile Angular UI
Mobile Angular UI is an open-source and free hybrid framework. With Mobile Angular UI, you can build your app using Bootstrap and Angular. You won’t have to rely on any Bootstrap libraries or jQuery–just add some AngularJS features, and you’ll have a highly-interactive app.
Bootstrap 3 doesn’t provide you with all of the necessary tools to complete your app, but Mobile Angular UI does. Features like switches, sidebars, scrolling, and non-moving navigation bars are all included in Mobile Angular UI.
Sencha Touch
Maybe you’re building an enterprise-sized app. In this case, you need the framework and features that can accommodate you. Look no further–Sencha Touch is perfect for planning and executing a project.
You’re able to easily create a cross-platform app in HTML5 and JavaScript with Sencha Touch. Building with HTML5 has never been easier with Sencha Touch’s incorporation of an HTML5 visual builder and pre-made templates. Sencha Touch also includes a library of features, like Pivot Grid and D3 Adapter.
Choosing Between Hybrid App Frameworks
You might be overwhelmed by the number of hybrid app frameworks that you can choose from. However, your decision can be made easier after determining what you want to achieve with your app and what tools you need to create it.If you’re struggling to build your app, our technology experts can help you with that. Visit our website for more information on how we can assist with your mobile application.
