Can a Web Developer Make a Mobile App?

When it comes to programming, there are so many different disciplines. The industry is changing all the time due to emerging technologies, as well as new languages and skill sets popping up all the time.

But although there is such a vast array of disciplines and specializations out there, not every programmer can do it all. There are hundreds of different programming languages, as well as a myriad of systems, tools, and techniques on offer. It would be impossible for one person to cover every possible skill set.

Before smartphones came into the picture, there were just web developers, as mobile apps didn’t yet exist. But now over 80% of the world’s population use a smartphone, and there are new mobile applications being created each day.

But is it possible for a web developer to make a mobile app? There are huge differences between web app development and mobile app development. Each process requires the use of different programs, code, and methodology, but that’s not to say it is impossible. With the programming tools now available, it is certainly possible for a web developer to build mobile apps just the same as they would for the web. Let’s take a look at how this can be achieved.

What is the difference between a web app and a mobile app?

A web application is a program accessed through a web browser and stored on a remote server. Unlike a website, which is static, a web application displays dynamic content that users can access in real time to perform tasks. Common web applications include Google Docs, Netflix, and Gmail.

A mobile application, such as Instagram or an online banking app, is designed to deliver services on a mobile device, whether a smartphone, tablet, or smart watch. Functionally, there is not a huge amount of difference in the way a user interacts with a mobile or a web app. Where they differ is that while a web app can be accessed through either a web or a mobile browser, a mobile app can only be accessed through a mobile device.

How can a web developer make a mobile app?

Mobile development differs from web development in a number of ways. A website or web application can be built using any software the developer, or business, chooses. A mobile app, on the other hand, must be created using a specific program. If an app is to be listed on the iOS Store, it must be developed using the Apple developer portal, whereas if it is for Android, the Android Studio will be used.

Although the two processes are completely different, there is a variety of cross-platform technology available for web developers to create mobile apps. Tools like ReactNative and Ionic allow web developers to use their existing development knowledge to make native mobile apps without compromising the user’s experience.

Simply put, in this day and age, there is no reason a web developer cannot make a mobile app.

Do you need help building a mobile or web application? Get in touch with Make IT Simple to discuss your needs.

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