An Informative Guide to Hybrid vs Native Mobile Apps

Nowadays, the common questions from developers are becoming the center of discussions on how to make an appropriate choice between a hybrid and a native app. The fact is that there is no right or wrong in this situation as the technological advantage will entirely depend on the business requirements. Therefore, in the case of the mobile app, it all boils down to user satisfaction and business objectives. 

What is a Hybrid App?

As the name implies, a Hybrid app is a software app that is a combination of native apps and hybrid apps. The universal code for such an app is built using Internet Technologies such as JavaScript, CSS, or HTML that can be compiled using necessary frameworks and plugins to handle the unique functions of the platforms. 

Another option is to use tools such as Xamarin or React Native, which allows you to exchange code across various platforms utilizing native components. Therefore, the apps created using offline technologies are referred to as cross-platforms. Despite the widespread popularity of these apps, the majority of users may be unaware that they are using such apps that work wonders when it comes to content sharing. However, until recently, Facebook has been using this technology but it might not be the best example as the app was immensely criticized by users and underwent catastrophic optimization. Instagram, Twitter, Gmail, and Uber are currently the most popular hybrid apps. 

What is a Native App?

A native app is a software app that is developed for use on a particular platform. In such cases, Apps for Android are written in Java and Kotlin whereas apps for Apple iOS are written in Objective-C and Swift. The native code allows the app to make better use of the device resources and capabilities (GPS, VC, AB, and types of sensors and detectors such as gyroscope, etc.). 

Apps designed for a single operational system also make it easy to update the navigation and design to meet the current standards. A native app can be used offline as it doesn’t require necessary linking to internet tools and the entire program content can be downloaded to the phone’s memory. Transcribing a native app to a different platform requires starting from scratch with a new development team that is proficient in the chosen language. Native technology is typically utilized for more complex programs or games that don’t require network access to function. 

Benefits of Hybrid App

In the case of Hybrid Apps, sharing a base code between platforms is essential to save time and resources. The development team must ensure the creation of an app for various systems requiring less financial effort. Moreover, this leads to a faster go-to-market for both iPhone and Android smartphone users. 

Several modifications and bugs can be fixed on both platforms followed by automatic updates being visible upon the next launch of the app. A hybrid app is significantly concerned about improving the user experience with content. It allows for direct access from the device’s desktop instead of manually typing the address in the web browser. Moreover, a hybrid app can work similarly to Progressive Web App when it comes to browser functionality. 

Benefits of Native App

The major benefit of the native app is high performance regardless of internet speed and the ability to customize UI along with a set of functions based on the user preferences. Developers can construct even more extensive and eye-pleasing apps by maintaining standardized technical specifications and programming language. An example of native apps is games that consist of modern 3D graphics. On the other hand, Native SDK packages make it easy to access the device-specific features without dealing with the complexities of a plugin that can result in work acceleration and eliminate issues with overdue libraries in the future. A compliant UX design helps the user to go through the interface intuitively without any further discrepancy at the initial launch. Usually, Native apps are considered secure due to the non-migration of data to the server followed by encryption within the architecture of the app. 

Downsides of the Hybrid App

As discussed above, one of the key benefits of the native app is efficiency. Mobile app developers might experience significant problems with the introduction of an offline mode in such apps. Moreover, the hybrid model works best in content-oriented apps that seem difficult to expand. 

While creating a Hybrid app, developers might experience unexpected problems as several native functions of devices can be accessed only through third-party plugins. And in the case of new devices, one might find themselves in the dilemma of creating one for themselves which seems like an unreliable solution. Although, difficulties don’t necessarily mean a limitation of possibilities but are rather equivalent to the greater output of work and budget. Moreover, the library must be synchronized with the latest changes and versions of the systems. Therefore, Hybrid apps should be possibly neutral and readable in terms of navigation. 

Downsides of the Native App

Developing a native app necessitates the requirement of a skilled programmer. Usually, the creation of a native app requires two development teams to work on Android and iOS versions simultaneously leading to higher expenditure. Furthermore, it’s essential to present the native app as the primary platform followed by the lateral transmission. As a result, it’s not just the initial budget that needs to be boosted but also separate development teams that require strong enhancement in the future. 

Which one to Choose: A Hybrid App or A Native App?

A hybrid app primarily comes with minimum expense along with faster updates at the beginning of the product lifecycle. If you require a content-based app and want to target a large amount of audience, then the hybrid approach is the way to go. The same applies to the introduction of the product or service to market through MVP (Minimum Viable Product). 

On the other hand, you must consider the native app if you’re likely to follow a more robust approach that will function regardless of the internet connectivity. It will notably lead to a better user experience as a result of a responsive interface. Therefore, after a brief discussion as stated above, the choice of the apps entirely depends on the business requirements. 

Please feel free to contact us for further information regarding the required budget, time duration, and limitations associated with the use of hybrid and native apps. We would be happy to assist you!