Android vs iOS in 2024: Which platform should you prioritize for your mobile app?

In the ever-evolving world of mobile app development, choosing the right platform to target can be a daunting task. Two of the most dominant players in the market are Android and iOS, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Let's delve into the current market share of each operating system in 2024 and explore the factors you should consider when making this crucial decision.

Market Share

According to the latest statistics, Android continues to hold the lion's share of the global mobile OS market in 2024, accounting for roughly 70%. iOS share is about 28%. The situation is similar in Europe, where Android has a share of 67% and iOS 32%.

However, it's important to remember that market share doesn't paint the whole picture. While Android boasts a wider reach, iOS users are known to spend more money on apps.

Factors to Consider

Here are some key factors to ponder when deciding between Android and iOS for your mobile app development:

• Target Market: Who are you trying to reach with your app? If your target audience primarily consists of users in regions with a high Android penetration rate, then developing for Android first might be a wise decision. On the other hand, if your app caters to a more premium market or one known for a higher iOS user base, then iOS development might be a better fit.
• Development Cost: Generally, developing an app for iOS can be slightly more expensive than developing for Android. This is due to factors like the use of Swift or Objective-C for iOS development compared to Java or Kotlin for Android.
• App Complexity: The complexity of your app also plays a role. If your app is relatively simple and doesn't require extensive hardware access, then consider exploring multi-platform development using frameworks like Flutter. This allows you to develop a single codebase that can be deployed on both Android and iOS platforms, potentially reducing development costs and time to market.

Flutter for Multi-Platform Development

At Brosvision, a leading mobile app development agency, we recommend considering multi-platform development using Flutter for businesses seeking to target both Android and iOS users. Flutter is an open-source framework from Google that enables the creation of beautiful, high-performance apps for mobile, web, and desktop using a single codebase. This approach can significantly streamline development, reduce costs, and ensure a consistent user experience across platforms.

Conclusion

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the Android vs iOS debate. The best platform for your mobile app depends on your specific target market, budget, and app complexity. Carefully weigh these factors and conduct thorough market research to make an informed decision that aligns with your app's goals.

By considering the current market landscape, the factors mentioned above, and the potential benefits of multi-platform development with Flutter, you can make a strategic choice for your mobile app development, ensuring your app reaches the right audience and achieves its full potential.