Comparison of Mobile App Development Technologies in 2024

Introduction

Mobile app development is now a foundation for most companies that want to reach their customers in a convenient and modern way. The key to success is choosing the right technology that enables you to build an app that meets user expectations while staying within budget and deadlines.

In 2024, the market offers many solutions – from cross-platform technologies like Flutter or React Native to native approaches with Kotlin and Swift at the forefront. There are also alternatives such as Progressive Web Apps (PWA), which combine the advantages of web and mobile apps.

In this article, we’ll analyze the most popular technologies for mobile app development in 2024. You'll learn their pros and cons, when it's worth using them, and how they can support your project.

Cross-platform technologies

Creating cross-platform apps is a great solution if you want to save time and money. With these technologies, you can build one codebase that runs on both Android and iOS, allowing you to reach users of both platforms more quickly.

In 2024, leading cross-platform tools include Flutter, React Native, Ionic, and Xamarin. Each is suitable for different use cases depending on the app's nature and business goals.

Flutter

Flutter, developed by Google, stands out with its ability to create apps with a native look and fluidity. Its rich set of widgets allows developers to design aesthetically pleasing and refined interfaces – for example, Google Pay uses Flutter.

Best use cases for Flutter:

• Banking or financial apps: Features like interactive charts or dynamic UI components (e.g., financial calculators).
• Educational and entertainment apps: If the app should attract attention with compelling design and animations, Flutter is a perfect choice.

React Native

React Native, developed by Facebook, is a good choice for apps that need smooth operation and integration with existing web infrastructure. It’s ideal for companies planning to implement social features or sell products online.

Best use cases for React Native:

• Social apps: Feeds, chats, reactions, and notifications work seamlessly here.
• E-commerce platforms: Online stores that need real-time synchronization, such as stock levels or promotions.

Ionic

Ionic enables quick app development using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It’s ideal when the app budget is limited, and there is a need to quickly release a product for multiple platforms.

Best use cases for Ionic:

• MVPs (Minimum Viable Product): If you want to test a business idea and launch a prototype fast.
• Informational apps: Simple tools like event apps or product catalogs.

Xamarin

Xamarin, part of the Microsoft ecosystem, is best suited for companies already using Microsoft tools like Azure or Visual Studio. This framework provides deep integration and allows building advanced apps with access to full native device APIs. One of the apps using Xamarin is Trello.

Best use cases for Xamarin:

• Business apps: Tools for managing business processes like CRMs or ERPs requiring high performance and reliability.
• Advanced enterprise apps: If the app must sync with company systems such as SharePoint or Dynamics 365.

Native technologies

Native technologies like Kotlin and Swift allow for building apps optimized for a single platform – Android or iOS. They provide full access to OS features, offering maximum performance and stability. This approach is irreplaceable when quality, precision, and integration with advanced device features are critical.

Kotlin

Kotlin, developed by JetBrains and supported by Google, is the officially recommended language for Android app development. Its modern syntax, Java compatibility, and type safety make it a favorite among Android developers.

Advantages of Kotlin:

• Safety: Kotlin eliminates many common programming errors like NullPointerException thanks to nullable type support.
• Code readability: Kotlin code is more concise and intuitive than Java, which reduces development and maintenance time.
• Full Android integration: Kotlin is optimized for the Android platform and provides easy access to all system features.

Best use cases:

• Apps requiring deep Android integration: For example, projects using Wear OS, Android Auto, or Google Maps API.
• Long-term projects: Kotlin performs well in apps that will be developed and maintained for years.

Swift

Swift, developed by Apple, is the foundation for creating apps on iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. Due to its performance and intuitiveness, it is the preferred technology in the Apple ecosystem.

Advantages of Swift:

• Performance: Swift is optimized for Apple hardware, ensuring smooth and fast app operation.
• Modern syntax: Friendly for both beginners and experienced developers – easy to write, understand, and maintain.
• Integration with Apple-exclusive features: Supports technologies like ARKit, Core ML (machine learning), or HealthKit.

Best use cases:

• Premium apps: Projects where aesthetics and smooth performance are critical, e.g., education or luxury sector apps.
• Integration with Apple devices: For example, apps that use Apple Watch, HomeKit, or Face ID.

Native vs Cross-platform: how to choose?

The choice between native and cross-platform technologies should be based on the project’s specifics and priorities. For apps where performance, quality, and full use of device capabilities are crucial, native technologies remain the best option. On the other hand, if fast deployment, budget control, and multi-platform support are the goal, cross-platform technologies offer an excellent balance between functionality and cost.

In practice, more and more companies are opting for a hybrid approach – combining the strengths of both. You can use React Native for the core app while implementing performance-critical features natively. This approach helps optimize time and costs without compromising quality in key areas.

Summary: Choosing between native and cross-platform is not just a technical decision – it’s a strategic one that affects the entire app lifecycle. Understanding user needs, budget, and long-term development goals will help you select the technology that best fits your business objectives.

Progressive Web Apps (PWA)

Progressive Web Apps (PWA) combine features of websites and mobile apps. To the user, they look and behave like a mobile app but don’t require installation from the App Store or Google Play. Just open a browser and add a shortcut to the home screen – the PWA is ready to use.

This simplicity makes PWA an increasingly popular choice for companies seeking an efficient and fast way to reach users. With advanced features like offline access and push notifications, PWAs blur the line between traditional mobile apps and websites.

What makes PWAs stand out?

No installation needed

Users can access PWAs without downloading them from app stores. Just go to the website, which eliminates the installation barrier – particularly important for projects where simplicity and fast access are key.

Easy updates

Updates are applied instantly – no need to submit to app stores or force updates on users. This is a huge advantage in fast-moving projects with frequent changes and improvements.

Offline availability

Thanks to caching, PWAs work even without an internet connection – ideal for apps that need to be available anytime, anywhere.

Where do PWAs work best?

PWAs are ideal for companies that need simple, functional tools accessible on any platform.

Informational apps: Blogs, news portals, and educational content platforms are perfect PWA use cases. Fast access, offline mode, and no installation need make them very user-friendly.

Simple utilities: Calculators, planners, or time management tools can be accessed through a browser while providing functionality without unnecessary steps.

Real-world example:

• Starbucks created its PWA for customers who want to order coffee quickly and easily, even with a weak internet connection. The app allows browsing the menu and placing orders without taking up much space on the user’s device.
• Unity is a game engine that gained popularity not only in the gaming world but also for creating advanced apps with 3D graphics and support for AR (augmented reality).

Advantages of Unity:

Multi-platform support: Apps built in Unity can run on Android, iOS, desktop, and even consoles.

Advanced graphic tools: Unity enables realistic visualizations, essential for gaming, simulations, and 3D design.

Support for AR/VR: Unity integrates with ARKit and ARCore, making it ideal for augmented and virtual reality apps.

Best use cases:

1. Mobile games: Games like Pokémon GO and Call of Duty: Mobile were built using Unity.
2. Simulations and training: Educational or training apps requiring advanced graphics or simulations (e.g., in medicine or aviation).
3. AR applications: Product visualization tools, for example, in the interior design or fashion industries.

Real-world example:

IKEA Place, an app built with Unity, lets users visualize furniture in their home using AR, significantly enhancing the shopping experience.

NativeScript – bridging web and mobile

NativeScript is an open-source framework that allows mobile app development using JavaScript, TypeScript, or Angular. Its main advantage is full access to native device APIs while maintaining the simplicity of web technologies.

Advantages of NativeScript:

• Access to native features: NativeScript provides direct access to Android and iOS APIs without extra plugins.
• Code sharing: You can share code between web and mobile apps, accelerating development and reducing costs.
• Support for modern frameworks: Developers can use Angular, Vue.js, or React in mobile projects.

Best use cases:

• Business apps: Project management, reporting, or team performance tracking tools.
• Projects requiring shared code: If the mobile and web app share similar features, NativeScript simplifies development and maintenance.

Real-world example:

Strabag Group used NativeScript to build a construction management tool that enables employees to track progress in real time on both desktop and mobile devices.

Why use specialized technologies?

Specialized technologies like Unity or NativeScript are perfect for projects with unique requirements. Unity excels in visual and AR-based apps, while NativeScript bridges mobile and web development. The choice depends on the type of project and the features that matter most to your users.

Mobile technology comparison

Each technology discussed has its strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right tool depends on project priorities – speed, cost, performance, or access to native functions. Below is a summary of the pros and cons of each approach:

Cross-platform technologies

Advantages:

• One codebase for multiple platforms – lower costs and faster time-to-market
• Fast MVP creation and market validation
• Versatility in moderately complex projects
• Large communities and resources (e.g., Flutter, React Native)

Disadvantages:

• Limited access to advanced system features
• May require plugins or additional tools to fully access device capabilities
• Potential performance issues in resource-intensive apps
• Possible differences in behavior across Android and iOS

Native technologies

Advantages:

• Maximum performance and smooth operation
• Full access to system and hardware features
• Excellent alignment with Android and iOS UX/UI guidelines
• Stability and faster adaptation to new OS features

Disadvantages:

• Longer development time – separate teams for Android and iOS
• Higher development and maintenance costs for two platforms
• Less flexibility when switching platforms or scaling
• More complex project management across multiple platforms

PWA

Advantages:

• Fast development and lower costs compared to native apps
• Can run in the browser without installation
• Ideal for simple apps with moderate functionality
• One codebase for all devices and platforms

Disadvantages:

• Limited OS integration
• Lower performance compared to native apps
• Restricted access to hardware features like camera or GPS
• Inconsistent behavior across operating systems (fragmentation)

How to choose the right technology?

Choosing a mobile app technology requires consideration of many interconnected factors – business goals, user needs, budget, and future development plans.

Start by defining the app's role in your business. Is the goal to attract new users, boost engagement, or improve internal processes? If your app should stand out and deliver unique experiences, native technologies like Kotlin and Swift may be essential. For rapid testing or basic functionality on many platforms, cross-platform or PWA solutions may be better.

Next, consider user expectations. Premium users with modern devices might expect advanced features like smooth animations or AR. In such cases, native tech ensures full hardware utilization. But if the audience uses older devices – especially in cost-sensitive regions – cross-platform tools may deliver good performance and consistency at a lower cost.

Budget ties directly into these decisions. Native tech offers quality but at higher costs – due to separate Android/iOS development. For smaller budgets or startups, cross-platform tools like Flutter or React Native may be more realistic.

Time-to-market is another major factor. If the app needs to launch within a few months – e.g., as part of a campaign – cross-platform or PWA approaches can significantly reduce delivery time. For long-term projects with ongoing feature expansion, native options offer easier integration and scalability.

Also, consider future growth: will the app require new features, platform expansion, or external integrations (e.g., with CRM or ERP systems)? Cross-platform tools may be cost-effective short-term but show limitations in complex projects. Native tech provides full control over app architecture.

Think from the development team’s perspective too. Does your company already have experienced developers? Or will you need to hire them? Cross-platform tools may be easier to adopt for teams experienced in JavaScript, while Swift/Kotlin require deeper platform knowledge.

Lastly, how will users interact with your app? Will they need offline access? Deep hardware integration? Simpler tools like PWA or hybrid apps may suffice – but for high-demand use cases, native technologies are still unmatched.

Final summary

In 2024, choosing a mobile app development technology depends on many factors: project type, budget, timeline, and user needs. Native technologies like Kotlin and Swift remain irreplaceable for high-performance projects requiring deep OS integration and top-notch UX. Cross-platform solutions like Flutter and React Native dominate when speed and consistency across platforms matter.

Alternative approaches like PWA or PhoneGap also have their place – especially in lower-complexity, budget-conscious projects. Specialized tools like Unity show that in some niche use cases (e.g., 3D or AR), standard technologies aren’t always enough.

Trends for 2024:

• Growing popularity of cross-platform tools – Flutter and React Native will continue evolving, narrowing the gap with native tech.
• Advancement of PWA – Progressive Web Apps are becoming more powerful and suitable for apps that once needed native builds.
• AI integration in development – AI-powered tools (e.g., for code generation or user behavior prediction) will reshape developer workflows.
• Augmented reality (AR) – Frameworks like Unity and ARKit will be more widely used in educational, entertainment, and shopping apps.
• Wearables optimization – Apps for smartwatches and fitness bands will grow in importance, driving demand for native-optimized tech.