Selecting the Appropriate Mobile Platform for Startups in 2021: Android vs iOS

In the dynamic world of mobile app development, two operating systems dominate the market – Android and iOS. Each has its unique advantages and disadvantages, making the choice between the two crucial for startups and businesses alike.

Firstly, Android apps can be developed on various devices, including Windows desktop, Mac, and Linux systems. This flexibility in development environment is one of Android's key strengths. On the other hand, iOS app development is primarily restricted to Mac systems.

When it comes to cost, Android app development is generally less expensive than its iOS counterpart. This is due to the lower cost of Android devices and the open-source nature of Android, which is free to use and develop on.

In terms of user interface and user experience (UI/UX), Google Material Design has a greater influence on Android, while Apple's Swift language is known for its simplicity and ease of use for mobile app development beginners.

The choice between Android and iOS for startups is not a straightforward one. Factors such as demographics, fragmentation, design and development, and the skills of the mobile app development company all play a role in this decision. For instance, Android has a larger global user base, but iOS boasts a loyal, well-established customer base.

Statista Market Forecast 2016-2021 predicts that there will be 196 billion annual downloads from the Google Play store by 2021, while from the iOS store there will be 42 billion downloads. This indicates a significantly larger market for Android apps.

However, Android's dominance is not without challenges. Fragmentation, which refers to the constant updates and variations in Android devices and operating system versions, can increase development cost and maintenance time. In contrast, iOS apps require less testing due to fewer device variations and less frequent OS updates.

Android apps offer high return on investment (ROI) due to the large user base, but iPhone apps tend to generate more revenue compared to Android apps. This is partly due to the enhanced security features of iPhone apps and the premium pricing strategy often employed by app developers.

Investors in the mobile app industry pay special attention to the choice of platform type based on factors like target user base, device compatibility, cost of development and maintenance, market reach, and potential user experience impact when selecting a platform for a new application.

In the United States, there are over 113 million iPhone users, accounting for about 47 percent of all smartphone users. Android, being an open-source platform, offers customization of applications to meet business requirements, making it a popular choice for many.

In conclusion, the decision between Android and iOS for mobile app development is complex and depends on various factors. Both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the specific needs and goals of the business or startup.