How to Develop an Application for iPhone and Android 2025

Got a mobile app idea but not sure which platform to choose? No worries, we are here to guide you on what option will work best for you – iOS or Android. Or even both of them?

What is mobile app development in 2025?

Mobile apps in 2025 are full digital ecosystems. Since user expectations are rising along with new technologies, keeping up with these trends it’s a must for staying competitive. So, what’s shaping mobile development in 2025? Here are the key trends.

• AI is everywhere: It’s getting even more deeply integrated into mobile apps, making content more personalized, improving voice & text assistants, and even adapting interfaces based on user behavior. AI also takes real-time photo, video, and audio processing to the next level. It’s a really huge step ahead this year. 
• Super-apps are taking over: More and more apps are combining multiple services, payments, shopping, communication, and even social networking, into one platform. Users don’t want to jump between different apps to complete tasks, so businesses are making sure they can do it all in one place. Let’s be honest, we all want to have such an app.
• Cross-platform development is the new normal: Instead of building separate apps for iOS and Android, companies are focusing on technologies like React Native and Flutter to create a single app that works everywhere. It saves time, money, and effort while keeping the user experience consistent.
• Security and privacy are a top priority: It’s not just companies that care about data protection, users do too. With financial transactions, personal data, and sensitive information stored in mobile apps, strong security is a must. In 2025, expect to see more end-to-end encryption, stricter data collection policies, and advanced anonymization technologies.
• 5G and edge computing are changing the game: Faster mobile networks mean better performance for AR/VR apps, smoother IoT interactions, and more complex processing happening directly on devices instead of in the cloud.

All in all, mobile development is all about creating full-fledged digital ecosystems, not just standalone apps. Focus on the bigger picture to build a product that delivers real value and meets user expectations.

Android vs iOS mobile app development: Key stats

Despite the clear benefits of both platforms, businesses still ask themselves: should I create an Android app or iOS? We’ll make it easier for you to make a decision. So, Android vs iOS, key facts.

• Android holds about 70% of the market, while iOS has around 28%. iOS is popular in high-income countries, whereas Android is more widespread globally. This is because iOS tends to attract higher-income users, while Android is more accessible to everyone. 
• iOS users spend more on in-app purchases and subscriptions, while Android gets more downloads but has a lower average revenue per user (ARPU). Seems like iOS developers are betting on higher-income clients and trying to cover the number of downloads with a higher price to achieve their goals. 
• Developing apps for iOS is often quicker since there are fewer devices to consider, while Android requires more testing due to its vast number of devices and OS variations. Android’s larger audience means apps need to handle more registrations and usage.
• The App Store has stricter app review requirements, slowing down the publishing process, while Google Play allows quicker updates. This means you can gather feedback faster and refine your app accordingly.
• Cross-platform solutions like Flutter and React Native are becoming more popular as alternatives to native development. It makes the development shorter and gives a chance to get a wider audience with a cross-platform app.

So, what’s the takeaway? The choice between Android and iOS really comes down to a few key factors: your target audience, monetization strategy, and business goals. Consider all of these, and you’ll get the best results with the right platform.

What is the difference between developing for Android and iPhone?

In reality, Android and iOS are the two giants in the mobile app market, powering the apps we rely on every day. But still, they also have their own distinct characteristics that make them stand out and become the perfect choice depending on your business needs. Let’s add some details.

The rest is up to you. However, we suggest putting together a solid plan that includes your target audience analysis, key goals, budget, and long-term plans for your app’s growth. This will serve as a strong foundation for your app’s future development.

Benefits for business from using Android apps 2025

Android apps are still on the rise in 2025. With such a massive user base worldwide, businesses can reach a broader audience, gather feedback quickly, and develop a strategy for app promotion on the Google Play Store. Plus, the open nature of Android brings plenty of perks for businesses.

Firstly, companies can tailor their apps more easily to different devices and user preferences. And secondly, businesses can boost revenue by rolling out innovative features and leveraging various monetization tools that Android offers. For example, if you have a plan to create a mobile app for the web store, the Android platform opens up a wide range of features that will make your app a powerful tool for your business. They work really great together.

On top of that, Android’s ability to integrate with all sorts of devices. Here are TVs, car systems, and smartwatches that can easily connect with Android apps. Moreover, they open up even more ways to engage with customers. By reaching different audience segments and enhancing app functionality, businesses can unlock countless opportunities for growth. Is this the reason to chose the Android platform for your future mobile app? Definitely, yes. 

Cons of using Android apps 2025

Despite all the advantages of Android apps, there are still a few downsides here. But let’s call them more like challenges that just need a bit more time to sort out. One of them is the sheer number of different devices running Android. While that’s great for reaching tons of users, it does make testing trickier, and ensuring stable app performance across all devices takes more time and resources. But once the testing is done, the effort will definitely pay off.

Another challenge is updates. Since Android supports different devices, system updates aren’t always rolled out at the same time. This means that when you update your app, new features reach users gradually, depending on their device model. This can sometimes cause issues with older devices not supporting the latest features, but with thorough development and timely testing, this can be avoided.

Also, with more apps on the Google Play Store, the competition is fierce. In other words – you’ll need to spend more time and marketing effort for your app to make sure it stands out. But once you do so, the rewards will definitely be worth it.

Benefits for business from using iPhone apps 2025

Develop an app for iPhone with the following in mind. Since iOS has a limited range of devices and system updates happen at the same time for everyone, testing becomes a lot smoother, and development time is cut down. The biggest advantage here is that you can get your app to the market faster, with better quality.

And let’s repeat again: iOS users tend to have more disposable income. This makes it easier for businesses to set up revenue models, like offering subscriptions or premium features, and really make the most of monetization opportunities. Plus, iOS offers top-notch security for user data, which is a huge benefit for businesses focused on privacy. They have really top-notch security tools to save personal data.

Apple’s ecosystem is another win. Because all their products are closely integrated, you can quickly sync your app across devices like the iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Customers don’t even notice when it happens. This makes it easier to create apps that work seamlessly between devices and offer users a smoother experience at the same time. If all the above are top priorities for you – choose iOS platform to move faster to your business goals. 

Cons of using iPhone apps 2025

While iPhone apps offer many benefits, there are some downsides businesses should consider as well. Development costs are higher due to the need for specialized knowledge and Apple tools. Since iOS users have higher incomes, businesses also face increased costs to target this audience.

Customization can be also limited because Apple enforces strict design guidelines, reducing flexibility for developers. They are really limited in how they can customize the app interface or add certain features. Updates may also take longer, as the review process is thorough, delaying app launches or new features. Additionally, iOS has a smaller user base compared to Android, so businesses may miss out on potential customers by focusing only on iOS. We agree here that high spending potential is a must, but what if you get the same result with a wider audience? That’s a question. 

Finally, app submission in the App Store has stricter requirements compared to Google Play. The review process is slower, which could delay the release of updates or new features. It’s cuz Apple is very focused on maintaining its brand’s reputation. So, it’s important to remember that your app may not launch exactly when you expect it. Or, keep this in mind and add this issue to your plan beforehand. 

How to make apps for both Android and iOS

So, you’ve got two ways to go: build separate apps for iOS and Android (native development) or create one app that runs on both (cross-platform). Which one’s right for you and how to choose technologies and platforms for a mobile app? Let’s break it down.

If you’re all about top performance and full access to system features, native is the way to go. The catch? It takes more time and money since you’ll need separate codebases – Swift for iOS and Kotlin for Android.

On the other hand, cross-platform frameworks like Flutter and React Native let you write one codebase for both platforms. That means lower development costs, a faster launch, and quicker feedback. Yes, there might be some limitations in performance or accessing specific device features, but big companies use these solutions for a reason – they work.

Before you decide, map out the UI/UX details for both platforms (Apple has some strict design rules, as you know). Then, test on different devices and get everything ready for the App Store and Google Play. Work closely with your dedicated dev team, make smart choices, and launch an app that’s both functional and profitable.

Insights from TRIARE experts on choosing a platform for your business

Over the years, we’ve worked on many similar projects and had countless discussions with clients about which platform to choose. Here’s what we’ve learned and can share with you.

• If most of your customers use iPhones, go with iOS. If you’re aiming for a wider audience, Android or cross-platform development is the way to go.
• Native development for both platforms is quite expensive, while cross-platform solutions (Flutter, React Native) help cut costs. That’s a double win – lower expenses and broader reach.
• Need to launch fast? Cross-platform is your best bet. A single codebase speeds up development, platform launches, and getting those first user insights.
• For apps that require high performance and complex functionality, native development is the smarter choice. It ensures your app fully leverages the capabilities of each device.

Every business is different, and yours is no exception. That’s why choosing the right platform should be a strategic decision made with expert guidance. At TRIARE, our workflow includes looking at the technical side and analyzing your industry, audience, and goals to craft a solution that’s both efficient and impactful. We’re here to help you build something great.

Conclusions

Here’s what you need to know about mobile app development on different platforms and what you’ll get from each choice. At the core, it all comes down to your audience and goals. Nail that, and your users will love your app.

In return, you’ll build brand loyalty, gain more advocates, and attract new customers. Got an idea but not sure where to start? Reach out to us – we’ll take you from your first steps to a fully launched success!