Top 5 Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) 6.5 Features You Should Know About!

The debut of Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) in 2012 revolutionized the way businesses manage and deliver personalized digital experiences. From content management to marketing automation, AEM quickly became an innovation to be reckoned with. The platform’s capabilities have long been regarded as a cornerstone for creating powerful user experiences. With the release of Adobe Experience Manager 6.5 in 2019, those capabilities have been elevated to new heights. This release is built upon the foundations laid by previous versions. However, the AEM 6.5 version incorporated a range of enhancements and new features to improve usability, security, and overall performance. The AEM 6.5 version includes a staggering 1300+ fixes and 23 iterations. These improvements resulted from rigorous user feedback and thorough testing, ensuring that the final product offered innovative features to meet the evolving needs of businesses. 

Several years have passed since the launch of AEM 6.5, and many businesses have already migrated from 6.4 to 6.5; some are still in the process of making this transition, while others remain significantly behind, seemingly unaware of this. 

In the rush to participate in the crowded race to seamlessly migrate from AEM 6.4 to 6.5, many businesses are still unaware of the full range of capabilities that AEM 6.5 offers. This is why Deftsoft has come up with a well-crafted blog post to unravel the top 5 Adobe AEM features that are transforming digital experiences. In this ‘compact and significant’ blog, unlock the potential of top AEM 6.5 features. 

Iterations Leading to AEM 6.5 

Before delving into the top Adobe AEM features, let’s look at the several iterations made by Adobe on the platform. 

AEM 6.0 In June 2014 

This launch introduced Torch UI (user-friendly interface), Oak-based architecture & more. 

AEM 6.1 in May 2015 

The release of AEM 6.1 focused mainly on improving its mobile app management and introducing responsive design capabilities. 

AEM 6.2 in April 2016  

With AEM 6.2, Adobe introduced Communities for creating online forums and the function of Content Fragments. 

AEM 6.3 in April 2017 

AEM 6.3 version introduced features like ‘Experience Fragments’ and ‘Fluid Experiences’ to make content delivery more adaptable across different devices. 

Also, Read: Content Fragments vs Experience Fragments in AEM: Which One to Choose?

AEM 6.4 in March 2018 

The revolution in Adobe arrived when AEM 6.4 was released. This version focused heavily on the rising trends of that era, such as automated content tagging and leveraging AI capabilities. 

AEM 6.5  in April 2019 

The introduction of AEM 6.5 was a major tech moment of the last decade. By improving content intelligence through Adobe Sensei and content versioning, AEM 6.5 was one of the most significant updates in the platform’s history. Several AEM 6.5 features were aimed at meeting changing industry demands. Now, as we look at 2025, these Adobe AEM 6.5 features have succeeded in doing so. 

5 Useful Adobe AEM 6.5 Features You Need to Know! 

Adobe AEM 6.5 Logo

1. Single Page App Editor 

The Single Page App (SPA) Editor in Adobe AEM 6.5 is the one-stop solution for professional developers. Using this innovative feature, developers can seamlessly create rich, client-side applications. Consider using a Single Page App (SPA) Editor to integrate dynamic JavaScript frameworks like React and Angular. Somehow, this app mimics the native-app development-like interaction when it comes to editing within AEM’s environment. To start with the Single Page App Editor, you only need a sample WKND SPA project application.  

2. GraphQL API for Commerce 

Adobe AEM 6.5 features also include integration of GraphQL API to enable efficient content retrieval for commerce websites. Many of you might be introduced to GraphQL. It is a data query language developed in 2012 by Facebook. GraphQL was publicly released in 2015 as an alternative to SOAP and REST web APIs for innovative front-end development. The main function of Adobe Commerce GraphQL API is to execute a quick and efficient information transfer between an e-commerce store and your storefront. It makes interactions faster by retrieving only the required data that an application needs, thus improving page load times and responsiveness. 

3. Smart Crop 

In the AEM 6.4 version, designers and developers faced a significant challenge when dealing with multiple image sizes for various layouts. To ensure that images fit perfectly across different screen sizes, multiple versions of the same image had to be manually resized and cropped. Eventually, this industry requirement was fulfilled with the release of the AEM 6.5 version. 

AEM 6.5 included Smart Crop, a feature powered by Adobe Sensei. By using AI and machine learning, Smart Crop automatically crop images in a way that preserves their most essential elements. Thus, this tool eliminates the need for any external editing software or manual cropping. 

4. CI/CD Extensibility via Adobe I/O 

We’re listing the top Adobe AEM 6.5 features. How is it possible not to include CI/CD Extensibility in it? So, here – arrives this innovative AEM 6.5 feature. 

This key enhancement in AEM 6.5 focuses on streamlining the development, deployment, and management of Adobe applications. 

As the name suggests, CI/CD (Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery/Deployment) extensibility via Adobe I/O allows developers to facilitate their continuous integration and continuous delivery processes directly with Adobe’s cloud-based services. 

Adobe I/O is Adobe’s API gateway and extensibility platform, designed to provide seamless integration with Adobe’s cloud services. By connecting Adobe I/O’s powerful features with innovative CI/CD pipelines, developers can deploy code faster and manage AEM instances more efficiently. 

5. Connected Data Asset Management 

Connected Data Asset Management is one of the significant AEM 6.5 features that enhances how digital assets are managed, integrated, and utilized across platforms. It refers to the ability to connect and manage digital assets from multiple sources—whether on-premise or cloud-based—under a single interface. This feature uses APIs and connectors to allow AEM to communicate and synchronize with external databases, storage systems, and content management systems. 

Wrapping Up 

The release of Adobe AEM’s new features marked a significant leap in digital experience management. Considering the evolving demands of businesses seriously, AEM 6.5 features aimed at delivering dynamic, personalized, and efficient digital experiences. After more than five years of its launch, these features have become successful in making significant digital transformations. The genuine reason for writing this detailed blog is to make businesses aware of the potential of the AEM 6.5 version. If you’re still using the 6.4 version for your business, consider migrating to 6.5 today! Believe us, it will take your business efficiency to new heights. 

Migration from 6.4 to 6.5 requires professional expertise and top-notch skills. Thus, contact Deftsoft for that! As a globally recognized AEM development company, we provide the best AEM migration services. Our expert team ensures a smooth transition with minimal downtime, enhanced features, and improved performance. Let Deftsoft be your trusted companion in elevating your business’s reliability in the digital world. Stay tuned with us for more updated information in the tech domain.

Content Fragments vs Experience Fragments in AEM: Which One to Choose?

Delivering the right content to your audience is more than just about providing information. It is about creating meaningful and personalized experiences across multiple platforms.

Many companies struggle to prioritize a flexible content approach for a seamless platform experience.

The lack of a unified strategy can slow your workflow and even lead to losing customers to competitors who deliver a unified experience across every platform. It is where AEM content fragments and experience fragments in AEM help simplify content management and distribution.
This post will explain the difference between content fragments vs experience fragments in AEM so you can understand which best fits your needs.

What are AEM Content Fragments?

AEM content fragments are free from design or layout constraints. They are structured pieces of content, such as text, images, or videos, that can be shared across different channels. AEM 6.5 content fragments are created and managed in a headless manner to deliver content to various platforms. 

AEM 6.5 content fragments let businesses share consistent information in different ways. It makes them useful for organizations that need to share content on many digital platforms. Each platform can display content in a format that suits it. Adobe AEM content fragments are stored in the DAM (Digital Asset Manager) as assets, and you can use them elsewhere on a website. 

Key Characteristics Of AEM Content Fragments:

Content fragments and experience fragments are two key components used to build efficient and scalable digital experiences. Here are the key characteristics of AEM content fragments:

1. Content-First Approach: Content Fragments in AEM focus more on content management than design. They help manage text, images, and other media independently.

2. Structured Data: The structured data approach of AEM 6.5 content fragments allows you to create and configure different types of fields, such as text, date, and reference fields, to ensure content is organized and formatted consistently.

3. Channel-Specific Customization: These fragments are not tied to any specific platform or design, which means they can be reused across various platforms based on each platform’s design requirements. A key difference between content and experience fragments in AEM is that content fragments are ideal for omnichannel delivery, while experience allows the reuse of entire components.

4. Reusable Content: Managing content across multiple platforms often leads to inconsistencies and duplication of effort. AEM’s Content Fragments address this challenge and are designed for content reuse across various locations and platforms. You can update the data centrally, which results in the changes automatically reflected wherever they are used.

5. JSON Export for Headless CMS: AEM 6.5 content fragments can be exported as JSON through AEM Content Services, making them perfect for headless CMS and API-driven content delivery. This lets you integrate with other systems and front-end frameworks like React or Angular.

6. Saves Time for Teams: You can speed up the content creation process by allowing teams to focus on content production with Content Fragments in AEM. It is easy to deploy the CF across multiple channels for faster content rollout.

Saves Time for Teams

7. Supports Headless CMS and API-Driven Delivery: You can export content as JSON via AEM Content Services and show the content anywhere and anyway you want via API’s. It is good for headless CMSs and allows you to share content across platforms.

8. Efficient localization: Efficient localization is critical for businesses that are looking to reach global audiences. AEM 6.5 Content Fragments makes it easier to manage content in multiple languages with its built-in multilingual support. It makes it easy for businesses to deliver relevant content globally.

9. Improved Workflow and Governance: Ensuring content quality and compliance is critical for organizations. The version control and workflow features of AEM enable content teams to track and approve changes before they are published. This ensures alignment with organizational policies and improves overall workflow efficiency.

10. Flexible Authoring Experience: The highly flexible authoring experience of AEM 6.5 content fragments is very useful for the content creators . They can easily manage complex content structures while maintaining full control by using the Rich Text Editor (RTE) and structured data fields.

11. Support for Personalization and Targeting: Organizations can enhance user engagement by utilizing personalization tools like Adobe Target. This integration helps deliver personalized experiences based on user behavior or preferences. It allows businesses to tailor content to specific customer segments and ensure consistency in their messaging across all platforms.

AEM Content Fragments Use Case:

Content Fragments are useful for websites that create new articles or news pages daily. Instead of creating a new page each time, authors can create and manage the content as fragments. It makes it easier to maintain a consistent structure and update different articles and news sections.

What are Experience Fragments? 

Experience fragments in Adobe Experience Manager are reusable pieces of content and layout which can be used on different channels. These fragments may be created on a single occasion and subsequently used in a consistent manner across a variety of channels. It ensures consistent brand experience on different places such as mobile apps, social media, websites and email campaigns.  

They are designed to streamline content reuse across various platforms, including AEM site pages and third-party systems. AEM 6.5 experience fragments allow you to create grouped components in one step instead of manually adding the same components to each page. Any changes made are then automatically updated on all pages using the fragment.

This approach improves efficiency for content authoring teams by reducing the need for repetitive content configuration. Furthermore, it mitigates the probability of user errors while guaranteeing uniformity in content across the entire website.

The use of Adobe AEM experience fragments depends on the specific content needs. They can be used alongside Content Fragments. Experience Fragments are the best option when content needs to appear in many areas of a website. Use Content Fragments for simple data-loading tasks if no design is needed. 

Key Characteristics of AEM Experience Fragments

1. Content and Design Integration: AEM experience fragments enable seamless integration of both content and layout for consistency and efficiency. It ensures a consistent design across websites, emails and social media. 

2. Reusable Across Channels: One of the key features of the Adobe AEM Experience Fragments is that you can reuse it across multiple digital channels. Once you create a fragment, you can use the same fragment effortlessly across platforms like mobile apps, websites, and emails. 

3. Editable Templates: Enjoy seamless design flexibility and brand consistency with AEM Experience Fragments. These fragments are created using editable templates and help you maintain control over layouts and components through policies set within the editable templates.

4. Variations for Multi-Channel Delivery: This feature increases efficiency and customization and allows you to create variations for different contexts or channels. You can create designs and content to meet the specific needs of each platform without duplicating effort.

5. Export as HTML or JSON: You can export AEM Experience Fragments as HTML or JSON. This makes them compatible with many platforms and systems, including Adobe Target. You can use them in headless CMSs or traditional web environments.

6. Multi-Device Support: The responsive structure of the AEM 6.5 Experience Fragments optimizes them for different devices. This means you get the same experience on any device or screen size.

Multi-Device Support

7. Efficient Updates: Any amendments made to an AEM Experience Fragment are automatically reflected in all instances of the fragment. This simplified update process improves the workflow and ensures that all instances of the fragment remain consistent.

8. Consistency in Branding: A good user experience across all digital platforms helps build strong customer relationships. AEM Experience Fragments ensures a unified user experience across all touchpoints by integrating content and design. This approach is especially helpful for global campaigns because it makes sure the brand and messaging stay consistent. Keeping everything aligned is very important for success in different regions.

9. Manage Campaign Effectively: Reusing promotional elements with the help of EF such as banners and call-to-actions across channels makes marketing more efficient. This is particularly important to deliver a consistent experience. It allows teams to launch campaigns faster while keeping a unified look and feel. Experience Fragments makes making content management easier across platforms.

AEM Experience Fragments Use Cases:

AEM 6.5 Experience Fragments allow marketers to create one experience that can be reused across different channels. This includes their platforms and third-party sites to ensure the user experience stays the same everywhere. Marketers can also use Experience Fragments to create different versions of the same experience. These versions can be tailored to meet the needs of specific audiences or campaigns. 

Experience Fragments lets marketers keep all variations in sync through Live Copy. This feature updates all the versions whenever a change is made to the original experience.

Difference Between Content  Fragments vs Experience Fragments in AEM

The difference between content fragments and experience fragments lies in their use cases. Here are some of the common differences: 

FeatureContent Fragments (CF)Experience Fragments (EF)
What They ArePieces of structured content (text, images) without a specific design meant to be reused across multiple platforms in Adobe AEM content fragments.Complete content sections with both design and layout, ready for use as part of web pages or digital experiences.
FocusFocuses on content flexibility and reuse. It is centered on “what” (the content itself).AEM 6.5 experience fragments focus on the presentation and how content looks and feels on different platforms. It emphasizes “how” (presentation and design).
How They Are BuiltCF is built using structured data models (Content Fragment Models) for consistent and organized content.EF is built using AEM components that define the layout and presentation of the content experience.
Design & LayoutDesign is platform-specific, meaning the appearance is controlled by where the content is used, not by the fragment itself.AEM 6.5 experience fragments include specific design and layout, ensuring a consistent visual experience across all platforms.
Content PartContent-centric, including elements like text, images, RTE, date fields, dropdowns, and references.Presentation-centric, including AEM components such as text, images, and custom components from your project.
Creation ProcessCreated using Content Fragment Models, treated as an AEM Asset.Created using Editable Templates, treated as an AEM Page.
Component ControlContent can be configured as different elements in the Content Fragment Model (e.g., text fields, date fields, dropdowns, reference fields).Components in EF can be controlled through policies set in Editable Templates.
UsageIt can be used in site pages via AEM’s core CF component or exposed as JSON for third-party use.AEM 6.5 experience fragments can be used in site pages via AEM’s core EF component, exposed as plain HTML, or exported to Adobe Target as HTML/JSON.
VariationsIt supports content variations but lacks live copy actions. Synchronization is possible for RTE/multiline text fields.Variations can be created from a master EF with options like Live Copy and association with different templates.

Content fragments focus on content when comparing content fragments vs experience fragments, whereas experience fragments ensure consistency in both design and layout. Knowing the difference between content and experience fragments helps marketers and developers create better content strategies using the right tools.

When should you use a Content Fragment vs. an Experience Fragment?

You need to think about your business goals and content strategy when choosing between Content Fragments and Experience Fragments.

When comparing content fragments vs experience fragments, remember that content fragments simplify content reuse, while experience fragments streamline the reuse of entire visual and interactive experiences. 

Content fragments allow you to reuse text across platforms for consistent messaging and scaling. On the other hand, Experience Fragments lets you reuse entire content experiences for a consistent experience across channels. The choice depends on how complex your content needs are. 

Understand the strengths and use cases of both to optimize your content management. If you need help with Content or Experience Fragments or have questions about your information architecture, please contact us.

We at Deftsoft, a professional AEM development company, help businesses magnify their digital presence by realizing the full capabilities of Adobe Experience Manager (AEM). Our team of experienced AEM developers and architects delivers customized solutions to ensure your business stays ahead in the ever-changing digital landscape. 

FAQs:

1. What are Content Fragments and Experience Fragments in AEM? 

Content Fragments in Adobe Experience Manager are reusable pieces of structured content. They are usually text that can be created once and reused across different platforms without including any design. Experience Fragments are different because they contain both the content and the layout. This lets you use the same design and content across many channels.

2. What is the use case of Experience Fragments in AEM?  

Experience Fragments are used when you need to reuse entire content experiences with the same design and layout. This works well when you want to make sure that the user experience is consistent across websites, mobile apps, email campaigns, and other platforms.

3. When should I use Content Fragments over Experience Fragments in AEM?  

You should use Content Fragments when you need reusable structured content that can work across different platforms. This is good when your content needs to be updated easily or when you are managing text-heavy content like blogs and product descriptions.

4. Can I use Content Fragments and Experience Fragments together in AEM? 

Yes, you can use Content Fragments and Experience Fragments in AEM. Content Fragments can be added inside Experience Fragments so you can use structured content while also making sure the design looks good on all platforms.

5. Which feature is available in Experience Fragments but not in Content Fragments?

Experience Fragments allows you to manage both the layout and the design, along with the content. You cannot do this with Content Fragments. This makes Experience Fragments useful for delivering full visual experiences that can be reused on multiple platforms.

A Beginner’s Guide to Mobile App Development in 2025

Did you know that global mobile app installs across Google Play and the App Store are expected to reach 230 billion by 2025? Additionally, consumer spending on these platforms is projected to soar to a staggering $270 billion. With experts predicting a major surge in Artificial Intelligence (AI) by 2025, the mobile app landscape is set for a significant transformation. From voice recognition to virtual assistants to predictive analytics, AI-powered apps are projected to redefine the realm of the digital world. Exciting, right? It certainly is. Forget about 2025; mobile apps have already become an essential part of our daily routines, helping us manage everything from finances to staying connected with loved ones and handling tasks more efficiently.

Think about your morning routine: you might kick-start the day with a fitness app guiding your workout, order breakfast through a food delivery app, and book a ride via a transportation app – all before even stepping out the door. Now, as we approach 2025, businesses and individuals have started recognizing the vast opportunities in this space. For aspiring developers, this makes mobile app development one of the most promising career paths for 2025, as demand for cutting-edge mobile apps continues to rise rapidly.

According to Precedence Research, the market size of global mobile app development is predicted to reach $1,383.65 billion by 2033. Moreover, our experts have also predicted that the global app revenue will reach $270 billion by 2025. This means the future of mobile app development is bright. If you’re a beginner looking to enter the mobile app development market, 2025 is the right time. 

Since this industry is so dynamic and complicated, it may be difficult for many to navigate it effectively. This is why Deftsoft has created a detailed beginner’s guide for mobile app development to help you navigate this industry effectively in 2025. From discussing the benefits of mobile app development to unraveling essential tools to execute this process seamlessly, our detailed beginner’s guide to mobile app development touches on valuable topics related to this industry. At last, we have dedicated a special section to help you become a professional mobile app developer. 

In this crowded market, Deftsoft wants you to become like Sinbad the Sailor, someone who makes every effort to navigate the ever-changing digital seas. Read our beginner’s guide to mobile app development to rise above the competition and chart a course for success. 

Before delving into the benefits, let’s understand the concept of mobile app development. 

Understanding Mobile App Development: Meaning, History & Evolution 

What is Mobile Application Development? 

As the name suggests, ‘Mobile app development is the process of creating software applications that run on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.’ The process involves designing, building, testing, and deploying apps that deliver specific functionalities or services to users. 

History & Evolution of Mobile App Development 

How many of you are aware of the history of mobile app development? Hardly, a few of you! Right? This is why, in our detailed beginner’s guide to mobile app development 2025, we’ve included a dedicated section on the history and evolution of mobile app development. 

Early Beginnings (From the 1970s to 1990s) 

The concept of mobile applications dates back to the late 1970s, with the advent of the first automated cellular network in cars in 1979. A few years later, Motorola launched DynaTAC8000X (the first commercial mobile phone of its time). 

Motorola DynaTAC8000X World's First phone

In 1989, Psion released EPOC (a mobile OS). With this, the evolution of mobile phones also started—Nokia launched their first GSM phone, and Apple launched their first tablet in 1993.

The incorporation of mobile apps can be found in 1994, when the world’s first smartphone, Simon, was launched. This revolutionary mobile featured simple apps like a calendar, notepad, touchscreen, sketchpad calculator & more. This was a time when the history of mobile applications began. 

In 1997, Nokia made an update by including a game app, ‘The Snake’ in their 2110 model. 

With the introduction of WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) in 1999, internet accessibility became really easy. All technologies were hitting the market at the right time. 

Altogether, this led to the launch of Handango in 1999. Handongo became the world’s first mobile app store. It allowed users to download mobile apps like Palm OS and Windows Mobile. The same year, the web app concept was introduced through Java Technology. Java is a programming language widely used for building cross-platform applications, which would play a significant role in mobile app development in the 2000s. 

The Rise of Jave ME  & Smartphone Revolution (2000s & 2010s) 

During the Y2K era, mobile phone trends and popularity reached their peak. In the early 2000s, Java Micro Edition (Java ME) emerged as a significant development platform. This innovative platform allowed developers to create applications for various mobile devices. However, the real game changer was the launch of the iPhone in 2007 and the subsequent introduction of the App Store in 2008. At that time, Apple’s version 2.0 app store made 500 apps available to its users. 

This led to the record-breaking sales of iPhone in 2008. Around 10 million downloads were made on the App Store just three days after the launch. 

This period also witnessed the rise of app giants like Facebook, Instagram, and Angry Birds, which became global phenomena. Both Android and iOS app downloads crossed the whopping mark of 10 billion in 2011. 

Mobile phone companies like Blackberry and Nokia fell behind because they didn’t keep up with the advancements made by Apple, Samsung, and others. OnePlus has emerged as a new-generation leader in this market. 

The Current Landscape (the 2020s) 

As of today, 8.93 million apps are available worldwide. Of these, 3.553 million are available on the Google Play Store, 1.642 million on the Apple App Store, and the remaining are on other app stores like Microsoft Store, Amazon App Store & etc. In the 2020s, mobile app development has become a critical component of digital transformation for businesses and organizations. Various mobile app development trends have changed the industry. With the widespread adoption of 5G technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and augmented reality (AR), mobile apps are becoming more interactive and personalized.

Benefits of Securing a Career in Mobile App Development: Why You Should Step Into This Industry? 

Mobile application development has become a cornerstone of modern business, providing numerous benefits in today’s fast-paced digital world. If you’re a development enthusiast, delving into the mobile app development industry will open the doors to various opportunities for you. In this section of our beginner’s guide to mobile app development, we’ve listed the top reasons why you should secure a career in the mobile app development industry. Read now! 

1. A Secured Career In One of the Fastest Growing Job Sector 

As the IT industry is booming, so does the technologies surrounding it. Today, in this industry, various jobs are available in different fields, like: tech support, database analyst, business analyst, and mobile app developer. Speaking of mobile app development, let us inform you that a mobile app developer has been named the ‘Best Job in America’ by CNN Money. Moreover, a prediction has been made that the jobs in the mobile app development sector will witness a growth of 19% in the coming years, with a median salary of more than $97,000. 

Furthermore, the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) has also predicted a significant rise in software development jobs, including mobile app development. The data indicates a 25% growth in the job sector in this decade. 

As we publish this detailed beginner’s guide to mobile app development, Deftsoft confidently thinks, 

“Mobile app development is a promising, lucrative and dynamic career path.”

2. The Rising Influence of Mobile Apps in Business or Brand Building 

In today’s digital world, mobile apps have become indispensable for businesses aiming to build their brand and connect with customers. With smartphones becoming an essential part of our daily lives, apps offer businesses and brands a direct, personalized way to engage consumers, strengthen loyalty, and drive growth. According to Statista, the total number of smartphone users worldwide has reached 4,479.66 billion users in 2024 so far. The data also estimates this number to reach a new peak of 6.2 billion in 2029. Moreover, 63% of mobile users prefer to use an app instead of a website, making apps the preferred channel for communication, shopping, and brand interaction. This massive user base demonstrates why mobile apps are now central to brand-building strategies. 

Some of the most recognizable brands today have solidified their market position by developing highly functional and engaging mobile apps. For instance, Starbucks has grown its brand through its app, which integrates a loyalty program, mobile payments, and personalized offers, driving 23.4 million active users last year. Similarly, Nike has used its app to offer exclusive content and personalized fitness programs, reinforcing its image as a customer-centric brand. 

As mobile apps’ influence on business and brand building continues to rise, the demand for professional mobile app developers is also increasing. 

3. Evolution of Mobile App Development As An Easy Process 

Mobile app development has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades, evolving from a complex and time-consuming process to a more accessible, streamlined activity. In the early 2000s, developing apps required extensive coding knowledge, specialized skills, and significant time. Only a few developers working in specific environments like Java or Blackberry OS could build simple mobile apps. However, things started changing with the rise of no-code and low-code platforms like Bubble and OutSystems, which allow non-developers to build functional apps using drag-and-drop interfaces. 

(Additional Information: No-code and low-code platforms are innovative software development environments that aim to help non-developers build apps seamlessly. These platforms offer various drag-and-drop tools, pre-built templates, and automated processes. This technology started gaining widespread acceptance in the late 2000s.

Research shows that low-code platforms can cut app development time by as much as 90% compared to traditional coding methods. Gartner Forecasts also predicts that low-code platforms will be responsible for around 65% of app development in 2024. 

Moreover, advanced frameworks like React Native and Flutter allow developers to create apps for both iOS and Android with a single codebase, significantly reducing development time and effort. Considering these benefits, around 87% of developers use advanced frameworks for seamless mobile app development. 

With the rise of advanced technologies, mobile app development has become faster, more cost-effective, and increasingly accessible to a broader audience. 

Mobile App Development Platforms/Frameworks You Need to Know 

As a beginner, have you ever considered developing mobile applications? You might know various technologies are used to build well-functional mobile apps. But what are these technologies? How do they help developers in mobile app development? Well, that’s when the mobile app development framework enters the chat.

To answer your questions accurately, we’ve incorporated a detailed section on frameworks in our beginner’s guide to mobile app development. 

What are Mobile App Development Frameworks? 

A mobile app development framework is a software structure (which acts like a library) that provides developers with the necessary tools, libraries, and interfaces to build mobile applications efficiently. The mobile app development framework acts as a foundation upon which apps are developed, streamlining the coding process by offering pre-built functionalities. The key components of mobile app development frameworks are as follows: 

  • UI Components, such as buttons, menus, and forms. 
  • Development Tools for coding, debugging, and testing.
  • APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) allow seamless interaction with mobile hardware and software features, such as cameras, GPS, or notifications. 
  • Code Reusability to ensure consistency across the app. 

Classification of Mobile App Development Frameworks 

As a beginner, you should know mobile apps are of three types – Native Apps (designed for a particular platform or device such as Android or iOS), Web Apps (designed to look and feel like mobile apps when accessed on a browser), and Hybrid Apps (these are a blend of native and web apps). 

Mobile App Development Frameworks

Since mobile apps are categorized differently, distinct frameworks are used to develop each type of application. This is why mobile app development frameworks can also be classified into three types: Native, Cross-Platform, and Hybrid Frameworks. 

1. Native Framework

These are specific to operating systems like Android or iOS. Native apps are built using the programming languages and tools provided by these platforms. 

Android Studio (For Android Apps Only) 

Android Studio is regarded as the best Native mobile app development framework. Google launched it in 2013 as the official Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for Android app development. Built on IntelliJ IDEA, Android Studio offers a rich set of features, including a robust code editor, real-time code analysis, and a powerful emulator. Using various programming languages such as Java and Kotlin, Android Studio provides effortless mobile app development. 

Xcode (For iOS) 

Xcode is Apple’s integrated development environment (IDE) designed to create iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS apps. Launched in 2003, Xcode is one of the reliable native app development frameworks. It comes with a comprehensive suite of tools and resources, including a powerful code editor, a graphical interface builder, and various debugging tools. Unlike Android Studio, Xcode supports Swift and Objective-C programming languages, which are essential for high-performance iOS application developments.    

Also read: iOS vs Android: Which Platform is Better for Your App?

2. Cross-Platform Frameworks: 

These innovative frameworks allow developers to write code once and deploy it across multiple platforms, such as iOS and Android. By running a single code, developers can effectively build mobile applications, saving time and resources. According to the 2023 Statista Survey, the top cross-platform app frameworks used by software developers are given below.

Flutter

Flutter is one of the leading cross-platform app development frameworks. It was first described and unveiled in 2015 at the Dart Developer Summit. Officially, Flutter was launched on May 12, 2017. The 2023 Statista Survey shows Flutter is the most popular cross-platform mobile framework. 46% of software developers (around 1/3rd of the total professionals) use Flutter.

React Native

React Native is a popular open-source UI software framework released by Facebook on March 26, 2015. The first version of React JavaScript Configuration was launched in 2015 during a technical talk event. Over the years, this innovative framework has become widely popular for cross-platform development. According to the 2023 Statista Survey, React Native is the second most popular cross-platform mobile platform. 35% of the seasoned developers use React Native for their application development requirements. 

3. Hybrid Frameworks

These frameworks combine web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript with native elements, enabling developers to create apps that work across platforms. Like cross-platform frameworks, Hybrid frameworks also allow developers to run single code across multiple platforms. However, what makes Hybrid frameworks different is their flexibility in launching web apps and mobile apps simultaneously. The following are two of the best hybrid mobile app development frameworks. 

Ionic

As an open-source framework, Ionic is the ultimate option for developing Hybrid apps. Ionic provides seamless mobile application development using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Launched in 2013 by Max Lynch, Ben Sperry, and Adam Bradley, Ionic quickly gained prominence due to its ability to create cross-platform apps with a single codebase. This is why Ionic is often counted among the best cross-platform mobile application frameworks. It uses AngularJS and Apache Cordova (formerly PhoneGap) to enable developers to write code once and deploy it on both iOS and Android platforms. 

Xamarin

Introduced by Microsoft in 2011, Xamarin is a framework for developing cross-platform mobile applications. It uses C# and the .NET framework to provide hassle-free development. Xamarin allows developers to share up to 90% of their code across Android, iOS, and Windows, streamlining the development process and reducing costs. For top-tier hybrid mobile app development, consider integrating Xamarin with Visual Studio. By doing so, you can unlock a comprehensive development environment, including debugging, testing, and deployment tools. 

How to Become a Mobile App Developer?

In our beginner’s guide to mobile app development, we’ve dedicated a comprehensive section to answering your questions about becoming a professional mobile app developer. Consider reading this whole to unlock valuable information from our beginner’s guide to mobile app development. 

Who, Exactly, is a Mobile App Developer? 

Simply put, a mobile developer is a professional who specializes in creating applications for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Their primary role involves designing, coding, testing, and maintaining apps that run on various mobile operating systems, such as Android and iOS. 

To become a successful mobile app developer, you should master diverse skills that span technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and soft skills. Below are the essential skills for a mobile app developer

  • Proficiency in programming languages like Java, Kotlin, Swift, Objective-C & more. 
  • Understanding of mobile development frameworks (Kotlin, Swift, React Native, Flutter, Xamarin & more) 
  • Deep knowledge of mobile UI/UX designs.
  • Experience in using Integrated Development Environments (IDEs). 
  • Skilled in using version control systems 
  • Knowledge of different architectural patterns such as Model-View-ViewModel (MVVM) or Model-View-Controller (MVC) 
  • Strong problem-solving skills to identify, analyze, and fix bugs. 
  • Effective communication, teamwork, and project management skills. 

How to Become a Mobile App Developer? – Step by Step Process

Many individuals with a keen interest in mobile app development face difficulties in getting an accurate roadmap to becoming industry professionals. In our beginner’s guide to mobile app development, we provide your ultimate roadmap to help you reach the top.

Step #1: Understand the Basics 

Start by gaining a strong foundation in computer science or a related field. A degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a similar discipline is highly beneficial. Alongside this, acquire proficiency in programming languages relevant to mobile development. For Android development, learn Java or Kotlin. Learn Swift or Objective-C for iOS mobile app development. If you’re interested in cross-platform development, JavaScript (with frameworks like React Native) or Dart (with Flutter) is crucial. 

(Read the section above of this beginner’s guide to mobile app development to learn about these technologies.)

Step #2: Build Your Skills Through Hands-On Projects 

Our years of experience as a leading mobile app development company have taught us that “Nothing makes you learn better than working on real-life projects.” Alongside completing your qualification, consider starting your own mobile app (it should be a completely different task from your educational institute curriculum). This could be anything from a simple to-do list app to a more complex application. These projects help you apply what you’ve learned and build a portfolio. 

Step #3: Gain Experience 

After completing your graduation level education, look for internships or junior developer roles to gain practical experience. Working on live projects with experienced teams provides valuable insights and skills. Moreover, working with like-minded people will give you additional knowledge about the job sector. 

Step #4: Develop a Strong Portfolio 

While working as a junior mobile app developer, consider creating a portfolio highlighting your best projects. Include descriptions, screenshots, and links to your apps or code repositories. This may help demonstrate your abilities and skills to potential clients or firms. Another thing: “Mobile app development is a rapidly evolving field.” Stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and technologies to survive in this ever-evolving industry. Follow some leading industry blogging websites to read beginner’s guide to mobile app development, attend monthly (if not weekly) webinars, and take online courses (on weekends) to stay ahead of the industry. 

Step #5: Focus on Networking 

In a crowded market like mobile app development, networking plays a crucial role in becoming successful. 

As your trusted beginner’s guide to mobile app development, we recommend that you focus on expanding your networking with industry professionals. 

Sometimes, your talent might not even work, but your network with industry people can help you grab a well-paying job. Thus, join developer communities, attend tech meetups, and participate in online forums to connect with other professionals. Networking can unlock a comprehensive suite of job opportunities and collaborations. 

Step #6: Prepare for the Job Market

Craft a professional resume and cover letter highlighting your skills, experience, and projects. Tailor them to each job application to align with the position’s requirements. Revise all your knowledge to prepare for technical interviews. 

Follow this beginner’s guide to mobile app development and build a successful career in this industry. Understand these steps carefully to build a successful career as a mobile app developer. Embrace learning opportunities, stay curious, and persist in your efforts to grow and succeed. 

About Deftsoft, A Premier Mobile App Development Company

After reading this beginner’s guide to mobile app development, you might be thinking about Deftsoft. Well, here’s some information you need to know. 

With 19+ years of experience, Deftsoft is a premier mobile app development company. As an industry leader in mobile app development, we specialize in developing custom solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses across various industries. Our team of experienced developers, designers, and project managers work collectively to deliver mobile apps that stand out in both functionality and design. What sets Deftsoft apart from its competitors is its commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies and industry best practices. Whether it’s about developing native apps for Android and iOS or cross-platform solutions using frameworks like React Native and Flutter, we aim to fulfill your unique requirements. Deftsoft isn’t only your ultimate beginner’s guide to mobile app development; we’re also the leading service providers in this industry. 

Conclusion 

Mobile app development has come a long way, from its humble beginnings in the 1970s to the dynamic and versatile industry it is today. With advancements in technologies like 5G, AI, and AR, mobile apps are set to become even more integral to our daily lives. The increasing demand for mobile apps in various sectors (from healthcare to entertainment) opens up vast opportunities for developers. 

To all those aspiring mobile app developers, 

2025 is the perfect time to enter this industry and conquer it. The mobile app development landscape in 2025 and even in the future looks promising and consistent. Take this as an opportunity to make a career out of this.

Deftsoft’s beginner’s guide to mobile app development is your roadmap to navigating this exciting industry. By leveraging the right tools, platforms, and strategies, you can set sail like Sinbad the Sailor and conquer the digital seas of mobile app development. 

Thanks for reading our beginner’s guide to mobile app development! Stay tuned for more informative blog posts. Also, look through the mobile app development services by Deftsoft to know more. You can also recommend our firm to your close ones who are looking for a reliable mobile app development company. With 19+ years of experience, we’re your ultimate application development partner. Contact us now! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the key trends in mobile app development for 2025?

In 2025, mobile app development will focus on advancements such as AI integration, 5G connectivity, enhanced AR/VR experiences, and increased use of cross-platform frameworks. These trends aim to create more intuitive, responsive, and engaging apps.

2. Do I need prior coding experience to start mobile app development?

While coding experience can be beneficial, many tools and platforms that offer drag-and-drop features and simplified coding environments are available for beginners. Starting with these tools can help you build a foundation before diving deeper into coding.

3. What programming languages are most relevant for mobile app development in 2025?

For 2025, languages like Swift for iOS, Kotlin for Android, and Dart for Flutter are highly relevant. Learning these languages will help you develop apps that are both modern and compatible with current technology trends.

4. How do I choose the right app development platform?

Choosing the right platform depends on your target audience and app requirements. Consider whether you need to develop for iOS, Android, or both, and evaluate cross-platform solutions like Flutter or React Native based on your project needs.

5. What are some common challenges faced by beginners in mobile app development?

Beginners often encounter challenges such as understanding complex coding languages, managing app performance, and ensuring compatibility across different devices. Overcoming these challenges requires practice, continuous learning, and leveraging resources such as online tutorials and forums.

6. How can I stay updated with the latest developments in mobile app technology?

Stay informed by following industry blogs, participating in online communities, attending tech conferences, and subscribing to newsletters related to mobile app development. This will help you stay up to date with new tools, frameworks, and best practices.

7. How big is the mobile app market in 2025?

According to our expert analysis, by 2025, global consumer spending on premium apps, in-app purchases, and subscriptions through Apple’s App Store and Google Play is expected to hit $270 billion annually. This figure represents a nearly 2.5-fold increase compared to 2020, a surge driven by the accelerated adoption of mobile technology during the COVID-19 pandemic.

App Development with Flutter: All You Need to Know About!

In 2017, who would have thought that a newly debuted innovation like Flutter would revolutionize mobile app development forever? Certainly, no one! But Flutter did this so effortlessly. In the ever-evolving world of tech industry, app development with Flutter has emerged as a game-changer. This Google-developed innovation has given the developers their biggest power – ‘An ability to create a cross-platform mobile application.’ Unlike other tools (which often require separate codebases for iOS and Android app development), Flutter allows developers to build visually pleasing, high-performance apps from a single codebase, saving their time and resources without compromising quality. With the introduction of Flutter 3.0 and several other advancements, Flutter has officially become one of the best frameworks to execute cross platform development.  

‘Flutter is the most popular framework for cross-platform app development. Around 46% of the developers around the globe prefers an app development with Flutter’. 

– According to the June 2023 Statista Survey by Lionel Sujay Vailshery, 

As we have moved ahead from 2023, Flutter continues to evolve, introducing new features and improvements that further solidify its position as a leading app development tool. 

Considering the massive interest of developers and businesses in leveraging this framework, Deftsoft has decided to walk you through the essential information you need to know about Flutter. This is why we’ve come up with a detailed guide related to app development with Flutter. 

We’ll start by exploring what Flutter is and why it stands out from other development tools. From there, we’ll dive into the key benefits of executing app development with Flutter. Next, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up this reliable app development too. Moreover, this guide will also explore the heart of Flutter – its widgets – starting with an introduction to the difference between stateless and stateful widgets and highlighting must-know widgets for beginners. Finally, we’ll share the best practices and tips to help you finish app development with Flutter seamlessly. 

So, without further ado, let’s jump straight into this blog post. 

What is Flutter? 

Flutter is an innovative open-source UI software development kit developed by Google in 2017. Unlike other tools, Flutter can help create cross-platform applications by using a single codebase only. It was first described and unveiled at the 2015 Dart developer summit. The first-ever version of Flutter was called ‘Sky,’ and it was used on Android devices. Google officially launched ‘Flutter’ on May 12, 2017. In no time, this unique application framework gained a lot of popularity and acclaim. A year later, Google released Flutter 1.0 during the framework’s live event on December 4, 2018. Taking constructive criticism in mind, Flutter 1.12 was launched on December 11, 2019, to provide better services. 

2020 was the year when industry people started recognizing the potential of Flutter. In May 2020, Flutter Dart SDK (Software Development Kit) version 2.8 and 1.17.0 were released. Both these versions proved to be revolutionary for Flutter as they enable developers to leverage Metal API and new material widgets. 

After this, Google didn’t stop to elevate the functionality and advancements in Flutter’s mechanism. Eventually, they ended up launching various versions – Flutter  2 in 2021, Flutter 3 & Dart 2.17 in 2022 and Dart 3 in 2023. 

Recently, the Flutter 3.24 version was launched in August 2024. 

Key Benefits of App Development with Flutter 

According to recent 2024 surveys, over 2 million developers have executed hassle-free app development with Flutter. Moreover, the 2022 Stack Overflow Developer Survey has counted Flutter as one of the ten most popular technologies in the tech field. This data clearly indicates the level of trust Flutter has gained among industry experts. This framework offers many benefits, contributing significantly to its rising popularity. Let’s explore these key benefits of Flutter. 

Benefits of App Development with Flutter

1. Fast Development Cycle 

Flutter’s innovative architecture enables developers to create high-quality applications across multiple platforms (desktop, web & mobile) through a single codebase only. Moreover, adding new features to apps with Flutter’s help is quick and efficient (Thanks to the availability of the ‘Hot Reload’ feature). Altogether, Flutter’s fast development cycle saves developers valuable time and resources. 

2. Customizable UI Design Options 

What sets Flutter apart from its competitors is its availability of highly customizable UI design options. App development with Flutter also offers easy customization, even for complex UI designs. Whether it’s shared element transitions, shadow manipulations, color & shape, or transformative, Flutter allows effortless design solutions. Moreover, Flutter’s mechanism also allows its applications to adapt to different screen sizes and ratios (according to device – phone or tablet). In short, a developer can create beautiful and well-managed user interfaces on Flutter. 

3. Top-Tier Native App Performance 

Flutter is a robust and versatile framework for building high-quality native apps across multiple platforms. Many businesses often struggle to create native apps, so they consider alternative options like PWAs (Progressive Web Apps). However, with the arrival of Flutter in the market, these alternative options have also fallen off. Businesses have started using Flutter to create high-end native apps. Flutter’s mechanism offers top-notch native app development capability, eliminating the use of any separate code or performance bugs. 

4. Easily Accessible

As an open-source framework, Flutter is free to use. This reduces development costs as no licensing fees are involved. This transparency of Flutter allows users to inspect, understand, and contribute to the framework, ensuring high-quality and secure code. The framework’s open-source nature also fosters a strong and active community of developers. This means extensive resources, libraries, and tools are available, and developers can seek help and share knowledge about app development with Flutter easily. 

Setting Up Flutter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up Flutter for app development is a streamlined process that enables developers to create natively compiled applications for mobile, web, and desktop from a single codebase. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to start app development with Flutter.

Step #1: Install Flutter

A. Download Flutter SDK

Visit Flutter’s official website and download the latest stable version of the Flutter SDK for your operating system. This is a foundational step to execute an app development with Flutter. 

B. Extract the SDK

Extract the downloaded zip file to a desired location on your machine. For example:

For Windows: C:\src\flutter

For macOS/Linux: ~/flutter

C. Update Your Path

For: Windows:

  1. Open Start Search, type in “env” and select “Edit the system environment variables”.
  2. Click on “Environment Variables”.
  3. In the “System variables” section, find the Path variable and click “Edit”.
  4. Add the full path to the flutter/bin directory (e.g., C:\src\flutter\bin).

For macOS/Linux:

  1. Open your terminal.
  2. Add the following line to your shell startup file (.bashrc, .zshrc, or .bash_profile):
Update Your Path in macOS/Linux
  1. Run source ~/.bashrc or source ~/.zshrc to refresh the environment variables.

D. Run Flutter Doctor

Open your terminal or command prompt and run:

Run Flutter Doctor

This command checks your environment for any dependencies you need to install and provides guidance on how to fix any issues.

Step #2: Install Required Tools

A. Android Studio (for Android Development)

  1. Download and install Android Studio.
  2. Open Android Studio, go to “Plugins” and install the Flutter and Dart plugins.
  3. Set up an Android Emulator via the AVD Manager in Android Studio.

B. Xcode (for iOS Development) (macOS Only)

  1. Download and install Xcode.
  2. Open Xcode and agree to the license agreement.
  3. Install additional components if prompted.
  4. Open Xcode, go to “Preferences” > “Locations”, and set the Command Line Tools to the latest version.

Step #3: Set Up a New Flutter Project

A. Create a New Project

Open your terminal or command prompt and navigate to the directory where you want to create your project.

Run this: 

Create a New Project

Replace my_app with your preferred project name.

B. Navigate to Your Project Directory

Navigate to Project Directory

C. Open the Project in Your IDE

Open the project directory in Android Studio or VS Code.

Step #4: Run Your Flutter App

A. Connect a Device

Ensure an Android Emulator or iOS Simulator is running, or connect a physical device.

B. Run the App

In your terminal, run:

Run the Flutter App

You can also use the “Run” button in your IDE.

Step #5: Build and Release Your App

A. Build for Android

To build a release APK, run

B. Build for iOS

To build for iOS app development with Flutter, ensure you have a physical device or simulator connected and run:

Build for iOS

Sample Code: Basic Flutter App

Here’s a simple example of a Flutter app that displays “Hello, World!”:

Basic Flutter App Code

Exploring Flutter Widgets

The building blocks of the user interface (UI) in Flutter are known as Widgets. Everything you create in a Flutter app, from the simplest button to complex layouts, is in a widget. In short, these widgets in Flutter represent an app’s visual and interactive elements. Widgets (the heart and soul of Flutter) can be categorized into five divisions. 

Categories Different Widgets in Each Category 
Structural Widgets Center, Container, Column, Row, Stack 
Functional Widgets GestureDetector, Form, Expanded, ListView, Navigator
Styling Widgets Padding, Align, DecorateBox, Transform, Opacity 
Composition Widgets Column, Row, Stack, GridView, Wrap 
Text and Icon Widgets Text, RichText, Icon, Image, FlutterLogo 

Two Types of Flutter Widgets (On the Basis of Change of State): Stateless vs Stateful Widgets 

Flutter Widgets can also be classified into two primary types – Stateless and Stateful, on the basis of their change of state. Let’s differentiate both of them to understand their crucial meaning. 

1. Stateless Widgets: 

Meaning: 

Stateless widgets are immutable, meaning that once they are built, they cannot change their state or properties. They are particularly designed for situations where the UI doesn’t need to update or change based on user interaction or other events. 

Key Characteristics: 

  • The properties of a Stateless widget are final and cannot be altered once the widget is created. 
  • They have a single build() method. 
  • Since stateless widgets are immutable, they don’t need any updates or an internal management system. 

Example:

Container, Padding, Center, DecoratedBox, Opacity & More. 

2. Stateful Widgets 

Meaning:

As the name ‘Stateful’ itself suggests, Stateful Widgets are dynamic and can change over time in response to user action or other events. Unlike ‘Stateless Widgets,’ they maintain a mutable state that can be updated, causing the widget to rebuild and reflect the changes. 

Key Characteristics 

  • They are mutable, dynamic, and ever-evolving. 
  • The State object can be updated, and when it is, the widget’s build() method is called again to reflect the updated state.
  • They have a plethora of lifecycle methods that allow developers to handle initialization and resources and perform cleanup. 

Examples: 

Checkbox, Slider, Textfield & Animated0pacity.

Summing Up: Stateless vs. Stateful Widgets 

AspectStateless WidgetStateful Widget
MutabilityImmutableMutable
State ManagementNo internal state managementManages state via State object
Lifecycle MethodsOnly build() methodFull lifecycle methods
Use CasesStatic content, simple layoutsInteractive, dynamic UIs
PerformanceTypically faster due to immutabilitySlightly slower due to state management

Must-Known Widgets for Beginners

Flutter offers a wide variety of widgets, but as a beginner, it’s important to understand some core widgets that are essential for building basic apps. Here’s a list of must-known widgets that beginners can consider in successful app development with Flutter. 

1.  Container 

What does it do? 

This versatile widget allows you to apply padding, margins, borders, and background color to its child widget. 

2. Text 

What does it do? 

It helps to display a string of text or labels within an app. 

3. Row and Column 

What Does It Do? 

During app development with Flutter, They help to arrange widgets either horizontally or vertically. 

4. Image 

What does it do? 

It aims to display images in your app, such as logos, profile pictures, or any media. 

5. Scaffold 

What does it do? 

It provides the basic structure of a visual app, such as the AppBar, body, and floating action button. 

6. Listview 

What does it do? 

It is used when you need a scrolling list of items. 

7. Elevated Button 

What does it do? 

It is used for clickable buttons in the app. 

8. TextField 

What does it do? 

A widget that allows users to enter text. 

9. Padding 

What does it do? 

This widget aims to facilitate the successful padding around a widget. 

10. Icon 

What does it do? 

It displays an icon from a predefined icon set. 

Best Practices and Tips for Flutter Development

App development with Flutter is an effective way to turn your vision into reality. The process of app development with Flutter may seem easy to many. However, if we dig deep, this may pose various challenges. Following are some expert tips and practices to consider for successful app development with Flutter. 

1. Use Widgets Efficiently

Flutter is built around widgets, so focus on creating reusable, efficient widgets to keep your code organized and reduce redundancy. During an app development with Flutter, consider breaking your UI into smaller components for better maintenance.

2. Leverage State Management

Choose the right state management solution based on your app’s complexity. Providers, Riverpod, and Bloc, are popular options for managing the app state efficiently.

3. Optimize Performance

Minimize build method calls, use const constructors where possible, and avoid unnecessary rebuilds. Profiling tools like Flutter’s DevTools can help identify performance bottlenecks.

4. Testing and Debugging

During an app development with Flutter, prioritize writing unit, widget, and integration tests. Flutter’s flutter_test package provides robust tools for automated testing, ensuring your app’s stability across updates.

Conclusion: Is Flutter Right for Your Next Project?

So, now, we’ve finally reached the end of this blog. We would like to address your frequently asked questions related to app development with Flutter. 

Is Flutter the right choice for my next project? 

Today, Flutter stands as the most popular framework for app development. Unlike its competitors, Flutter excels in creating high-quality, natively compiled apps for both iOS and Android from a single codebase. With its wide range of pre-designed widgets and components, app development with Flutter provides a highly responsive and visually appealing user interface. On top of that, this leading framework has a vibrant community and strong support from Google. This means developers can find ample help and solutions within Flutter’s community. Considering all these points, Deftsoft believes.

“App development with Flutter for your next project is the right choice”

However, you only need to contact a reliable Flutter app development company to do so. 

With 19+ years of experience, Deftsoft is a premier provider of flutter app development solutions. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing successful app development with Flutter. Whether you’re looking to create a dynamic app or enhance an existing one, our team offers top-tier efficiency, scalability, and excellence. Trust us in our expertise to turn your app ideas into reality! Contact us now!

The Ultimate Cross Platform App Development Guide: Everything You Need to Know

A cross platform app is essential for small businesses aiming to reach a broader audience. By utilizing a single codebase, these companies ensure that your app runs smoothly on various platforms, such as iOS and Android. This approach not only saves time but also reduces costs, making it a smart choice for businesses with limited resources.

Ultimately, considering a cross platform app development guarantees a consistent user experience across all devices. This uniformity enhances brand recognition and user satisfaction, crucial elements for any business looking to build a loyal customer base. Moreover, the streamlined development process allows for quicker updates and easier maintenance. As easy as the whole cross platform app development may sound, it is surely much more complex. 

This is why Deftsoft has come up with a detailed blog post on cross platform app development – allowing you to facilitate this process smoothly. This blog post discusses the key benefits, reliable tools/frameworks, and platforms supported by cross-platform app development. Since cross platform app development is a multifaceted practice, we’ll also dig deep into its application uses across various industries. In the end, you’ll get to know comprehensively about the challenges and emerging trends in this innovative development. 

So, don’t wait now! Without further, jump into this blog post to read. 

What is Cross Platform App Development?

Cross platform app development refers to the process of creating mobile applications that can run on multiple operating systems, such as iOS and Android, from a single codebase. This approach utilizes tools and frameworks like Flutter, React Native, and Xamarin to streamline the development process.

Benefits of Cross Platform App Development

The key advantages of cross platform app development include cost savings, faster time-to-market, and a consistent user experience across different devices. These benefits make it an ideal choice for small businesses looking to maximize their impact with minimal investment. Let’s discuss each in detail!

1. Cost-Effectiveness

Cross platform app development services offer significant cost savings for small businesses. By developing a single codebase that runs on multiple platforms, businesses can reduce the need for multiple development teams. This consolidation leads to lower overall development expenses.

Furthermore, maintaining one codebase is more economical than managing separate versions for each platform. Updates and bug fixes can be implemented once and deployed across all platforms, reducing ongoing maintenance costs and ensuring a more streamlined development process.

2. Time Efficiency: 

Cross platform app development enable faster time-to-market by allowing simultaneous deployment on multiple platforms. This speed is crucial for businesses looking to launch their products quickly and gain a competitive edge.

The development process is also more efficient, as developers can focus on optimizing one codebase instead of juggling multiple ones. This streamlined approach accelerates the development cycle, ensuring that businesses can respond rapidly to market demands and user feedback.

3. Consistency: 

Using cross platform app development ensures a consistent user experience across different devices and platforms. This uniformity helps in building a solid brand identity, as users encounter the same interface and functionality regardless of their device. Consistency across platforms also enhances user satisfaction, as it minimizes the learning curve and potential frustrations with different app versions. This seamless experience is vital for retaining customers and encouraging positive word-of-mouth recommendations.

What are the Core Technologies/Frameworks Used for Cross Platform App Development

Cross platform app development relies on several core technologies to create applications that run seamlessly on multiple platforms. These technologies provide the foundation for building robust, high-performance apps that meet diverse business needs. Let’s explore some of the most popular and powerful frameworks used in this domain:

Cross Platform App Development Frameworks

1. Flutter

Flutter, developed by Google, is a leading technology in the realm of cross platform app development. It uses the Dart programming language and offers a comprehensive set of pre-designed widgets. These widgets enable developers to create highly responsive and visually appealing user interfaces. Flutter’s hot reload feature allows developers to see changes in real time, significantly speeding up the development process. Its rich set of libraries and tools makes it an ideal choice for creating high-quality mobile apps that perform consistently across both iOS and Android platforms.

2. React Native

React Native, created by Facebook, is another prominent framework used in cross platform app development. It allows developers to use JavaScript and React to build mobile applications. One of the key advantages of React Native is its ability to leverage native components, which ensures a high level of performance and a native-like user experience. React Native also has a large and active community, providing a wealth of resources, plugins, and tools that make development more efficient and effective.

3. Xamarin

Owned by Microsoft, Xamarin uses C# and .NET to provide a robust environment for cross platform development. Xamarin allows developers to write most of their code once and share it across multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and Windows. This not only accelerates the development process but also ensures a consistent user experience across different devices. Xamarin’s integration with Visual Studio, a powerful IDE, further enhances the development workflow, making it easier to build, test, and deploy cross platform applications.

Also read: 8 Leading Cross Development Frameworks

What are the Platforms Supported by Cross Platform App Development?

Cross platform app development services are designed to create applications that work seamlessly across a wide range of platforms. This broad compatibility ensures that businesses can reach a larger audience without the need for separate native apps for each platform. The key platforms supported include:

Platforms Supported by Cross Platform App Development

1. iOS

Cross-platform development tools like Flutter, React Native, and Xamarin make it easier to build iOS apps that run smoothly across devices. These tools provide access to native iOS features and functionalities, ensuring the apps deliver a high-quality user experience while adhering to Apple’s strict guidelines.

2. Android

Android is another major platform supported by cross platform development tools. These tools allow developers to create apps that work efficiently on a wide range of Android devices, from smartphones to tablets. The ability to reach a large and diverse user base makes Android support essential for any cross platform app.

3. Windows

Cross platform app development also extends to Windows, allowing businesses to create applications that run on Windows PCs and tablets. This capability is particularly useful for enterprise applications that need to support a range of devices used in corporate environments.

4. macOS

In addition to iOS, cross platform tools also support macOS, enabling the development of desktop applications for Apple’s operating system. This ensures that businesses can provide a consistent experience across both mobile and desktop platforms.

5. Web

Many cross platform development tools also support the creation of web applications. This allows businesses to reach users on any device with a web browser, providing maximum flexibility and accessibility. Web support is crucial for creating progressive web apps (PWAs) that deliver a native-like experience on the web.

Cross Platform Development Tools

The success of cross platform Development depends on a robust set of development tools and frameworks that streamline the development process and enhance productivity. Some of the key tools used in this field include:

1. Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): 

Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) are essential for cross platform development. Visual Studio, Android Studio, and Xcode are among the most popular IDEs used by developers. Visual Studio, with its powerful debugging and coding tools, is widely used for Xamarin development. Android Studio provides a comprehensive environment for building Android apps, while Xcode is the go-to IDE for macOS and iOS development. These IDEs offer a range of features that facilitate coding, testing, and deployment, making the development process more efficient.

2. Build Tools: 

Build tools like Gradle and Maven are crucial for managing dependencies and automating the build process. Gradle is widely used in Android app development, providing a flexible and efficient way to manage project builds. Maven, often used in conjunction with Java projects, helps manage project dependencies and build lifecycle, ensuring that the app is built and deployed correctly.

3. Testing Frameworks: 

Testing is a critical component of cross platform app development, ensuring that the app functions correctly on all supported platforms. Appium and XCTest are popular testing frameworks used in this domain. Appium is an open-source tool that allows automated testing of mobile applications, supporting both iOS and Android platforms. XCTest, developed by Apple, is used to test iOS applications, providing a robust set of tools for unit and UI testing.

By leveraging these core technologies, platforms, and tools, cross platform development services enable businesses to create high-quality, versatile applications that meet the needs of a diverse user base. This approach not only enhances development efficiency but also ensures a consistent and engaging user experience across all devices.

Applications of Cross Platform App Development (Industry-Wise)

Cross platform app development has become a game-changer across numerous industries by providing a unified approach to app creation that works across different operating systems. This versatility is highly valued in various sectors:

Applications of Cross Platform App Development
  1. Healthcare: In the healthcare industry, cross platform apps streamline patient management, appointment scheduling, and telemedicine services. By utilizing a single codebase, healthcare providers can ensure that their apps offer consistent functionality and user experience across both iOS and Android devices. This efficiency supports better patient engagement and more effective management of medical records.
  2. Retail: Retail businesses leverage cross platform development to create shopping apps that enhance the customer experience with features like product catalogs, real-time inventory updates, and secure payment gateways. These apps help retailers maintain a strong digital presence, reaching a wider audience without the need for separate development efforts for different platforms.
  3. Finance: Financial institutions benefit from cross platform apps by offering banking services, investment tracking, and personal finance management tools across various devices. This approach ensures that users can access their financial information securely and consistently, regardless of the device they use.
  4. Education: Educational institutions use cross platform apps to deliver e-learning platforms, interactive courses, and student management systems. These apps provide a seamless educational experience for students and educators, making learning accessible from different devices and operating systems.
  5. Travel and Hospitality: The travel industry utilizes cross platform app development for booking systems, travel itineraries, and customer support. This consistency across devices enhances the user experience, allowing travelers to manage their trips effortlessly, whether they’re using smartphones or tablets.

Cross platform development provides a flexible, cost-effective solution for industries seeking to reach diverse audiences while maintaining a high-quality user experience.

Challenges and Limitations in Cross Platform Development

Cross platform app development has become an attractive option for businesses looking to reach a wider audience with a single codebase. However, despite the advantages, cross platform development comes with its own set of challenges and limitations that can affect the final product’s quality and user experience. Below, we’ll explore some of the key challenges and limitations in cross platform development.

1. Performance Issues

One of the most significant challenges in cross platform app development is performance. While cross platform frameworks have made strides in optimizing performance, they often cannot match the performance of native apps. Native apps are built specifically for a particular operating system, allowing them to leverage the platform’s full capabilities, including advanced graphics and hardware acceleration.

In contrast, cross platform apps may struggle with performance, particularly in areas like graphics rendering and animations. This is because cross platform frameworks rely on a layer of abstraction that communicates with the underlying native code, leading to potential delays and lag. For performance-intensive applications, such as those involving complex animations, gaming, or augmented reality (AR), these issues can significantly impact the user experience. Users may notice slower load times, frame drops, or less responsive interactions, all of which can detract from the app’s overall usability and appeal.

2. Limited Access to Native Features

Another limitation of cross platform development is the restricted access to native features and APIs. While cross platform app development frameworks offer a broad range of functionalities, they may not fully support all the native features available on each platform. This limitation can hinder the development of apps that require deep integration with the device’s hardware or operating system-specific features.

For example, if an app needs to utilize the latest camera technology, biometric authentication, or advanced geolocation services, cross platform frameworks may not offer the same level of access or performance as native development. In some cases, developers may need to write custom native code to bridge the gap, which can complicate the development process and reduce the advantages of using a cross platform approach. Additionally, the delay in updates and support for new native features can leave cross platform apps lagging behind their native counterparts.

3. Potentially Higher Initial Costs

While one of the primary benefits of cross platform development is the potential for cost savings, especially when maintaining and updating apps across multiple platforms, the initial investment can be higher than anticipated. This is particularly true for small businesses or startups with limited resources.

The learning curve associated with new cross platform frameworks can be steep, requiring developers to familiarise themselves with the specific tools, libraries, and best practices of the chosen framework. Additionally, setting up the development environment and ensuring that the app works seamlessly across different devices and operating systems can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.

These initial costs, both in terms of time and money, may outweigh the long-term benefits for some businesses. It’s essential to carefully assess whether the potential savings in maintenance and updates justify the upfront investment. In some cases, especially for simple or small-scale apps, native development might offer a more straightforward and cost-effective solution.

Emerging Trends in Cross Platform Development in 2025

Cross platform development has rapidly evolved, with new trends and technologies reshaping the landscape. As businesses increasingly seek to deliver apps across multiple platforms with minimal effort, developers are continually innovating to improve performance, user experience, and development efficiency. Below are three emerging trends in cross platform development that are gaining traction.

1. Hybrid Frameworks Combining Native and Web Technologies

A growing trend is the use of hybrid frameworks that blend native and web technologies to create more versatile and high-performing apps. Frameworks like Ionic and React Native enable developers to use web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript while still allowing access to native features through plugins or custom modules. This approach offers the flexibility of web development with the performance and functionality of native apps, making it an attractive option for developers looking to balance ease of development with high-quality user experiences.

2. Adoption of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional cross platform apps. PWAs offer a seamless user experience by combining the best features of web and mobile apps, including offline access, push notifications, and the ability to install on the home screen without requiring app store downloads. PWAs are built using standard web technologies, making them easier to develop and maintain. They also provide a more consistent experience across different devices and operating systems, making them an appealing choice for businesses looking to reach a wide audience without the complexities of native app development.

3. Integration of AI and Machine Learning

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into cross platform development is an emerging trend that enhances app functionality and user experience. Cross platform app frameworks are increasingly supporting AI and ML capabilities, allowing developers to build intelligent features like personalized recommendations, voice recognition, and predictive analytics directly into their apps. This trend is particularly important as businesses seek to create more interactive and intuitive apps that can adapt to user behavior. As AI and ML technologies continue to advance, their role in cross platform development is expected to grow, enabling more sophisticated and responsive applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cross platform app development is becoming increasingly vital for businesses aiming to maximize their reach and efficiency. As emerging trends such as hybrid frameworks, Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), and AI integration reshape the development landscape, companies can now create more versatile, high-performing apps with minimal effort. These innovations not only streamline the development process but also enhance user experience across various platforms. While challenges like performance issues and limited access to native features persist, the evolving tools and technologies are making cross platform development more accessible and effective. By staying ahead of these trends, businesses can leverage the full potential of cross platform development to create robust, user-friendly applications that meet diverse market needs.

If you’re in need of a reliable partner for cross platform app development, look no further than Deftsoft. With 19+ years of experience, we have established ourselves as a premier source for top-tier cross platform app development services. Our expert team specializes in creating seamless, high-performance applications that run flawlessly across multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and Windows. Trust Deftsoft to deliver innovative solutions that save you time and money while expanding your reach. Partner with us today and experience the difference of working with a top cross platform app development company

FAQs

1. What is cross-platform app development?

Cross-platform app development refers to creating mobile applications that can run on multiple operating systems, like iOS and Android, using a single codebase. This approach saves time and resources by allowing developers to write one set of code that works across different platforms.

2. What are the advantages of cross-platform app development?

The main advantages include reduced development costs, faster time to market, and broader audience reach. Additionally, maintaining a single codebase simplifies updates and bug fixes across all platforms.

3. Which frameworks are popular for cross-platform app development?

Popular frameworks include Flutter, React Native, Xamarin, and Unity. Each offers unique features that make it easier to build high-quality apps that perform well across different platforms.

4. How does cross-platform app development impact app performance?

Modern cross-platform tools have significantly improved performance, allowing apps to run smoothly with near-native functionality. However, for highly complex apps, native development might still offer better performance.

5. Is cross-platform app development suitable for all types of apps?

Cross-platform development is ideal for most business apps, e-commerce solutions, and social platforms. However, for apps requiring extensive platform-specific functionalities, like high-end gaming or complex AR/VR applications, native development may be more appropriate.

Debugging React Native Apps: 5 Best Tools and Practices

Hey there, all code wizards and pixel pushers! Imagine this: You’ve just created a fantastic new feature for your app with the help of React Native. It’s sleek, it’s responsive, and you can’t wait to see it in action. You launch the app, but instead of the smooth experience you envisioned, you’re met with bugs and crashes. The frustration will surely kick your mind at that moment, making you stare at lines of code and wonder where things went down. And, in such conditions, only one thing will help you: Debugging React Native Apps.

Whether you’re dealing with performance issues, UI glitches, or unexpected crashes, debugging React Native apps will surely help you identify and fix problems. The debugging process may seem simple, but it can sometimes feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

However, fear not! 

Deftsoft has come up with a detailed blog post to guide you through the best tools and practices for debugging React Native apps easily. Our expert developers recommend the top 10 tools and practices to execute a hassle-free debugging of React Native apps.

So, let’s jump straight into the blog post without further ado.

Let’s Know the Basics first!

Before delving into the tools and techniques for debugging React Native apps, let’s first understand the basics. Read this section to learn what React Native and debugging React Native apps are exactly.

What, Exactly, is React Native?

As a passionate and well-informed developer, ‘React Native’ wouldn’t be a strange term for you. It is a popular JavaScript-based mobile app development system that helps developers build seamless, high-quality, cross-platform mobile apps with a single codebase. The history of React Native can be traced back to 2013 when Facebook was improving the efficiency of its mobile app. While doing this, Facebook’s lead developer, Jordan Walke, made one revolutionary discovery. He found a hassle-free method for the generation of UI elements using JavaScript.

(Generating UI elements on Facebook’s mobile webpage was essential to elevate its efficiency)

As soon as Walke found this method, an immediate Hackathon (a social coding event) was organized to learn more about this method.

Today, this same method is popularly known as React Native. The moment it came into the life, the mobile app development industry changed forever.

Jordan Walke initially used React Native to generate UI elements on iOS apps in 2013. Android support through React Native came in 2015. Months later, Facebook publicly debuted a framework for debugging React Native apps.

In just three after its public launch, React Native became the second biggest project on GitHub.

That’s enough information about React Native. Now, let’s understand debugging React Native apps in detail.

Understanding Debugging React Native Apps

As mentioned earlier, React Native is an open-source Facebook project that was created to develop seamless mobile applications.

Ultimately, the mobile applications developed using the React Native framework are known as ‘React Native Apps.’ There are a wide range of benefits of creating a mobile app through React Native. However, with the plethora of benefits, such as cost-efficiency, consistent user experience, and access to native modules, you can also encounter several bugs and glitches. Eventually, the bugs in a mobile app negatively impact not only the app’s functionality but also the user experience and reputation of the brand value. Altogether, this can lead to lost revenue, increased support costs, and higher development expenses. Therefore, debugging React Native apps becomes essential.

Debugging involves a series of steps that help developers to analyze and remove the problem effectively. In short, debugging is the process of identifying, analyzing, and fixing errors or bugs in software code.

In the words of Kyle Simpson, author of ‘You Don’t Know JS,’

“Good debugging tools & practices can significantly reduce the number of bugs in your application, leading to a smoother and more reliable user experience.”

– Kyle Simpson, author of ‘You Don’t Know JS

Reading this quote, you may be wondering, what are the best debugging tools to effectively identify and fix the errors in React Native apps?

Well, to find the answer to this, read the next section. 

Essential Debugging Tools for React Native

Honestly, debugging is one of the critical aspects of software development, and its importance in elevating React Native apps cannot be overstated. By debugging React Native apps, developers not only identify and resolve prevalent issues but also ensure the reliability of the codebase. A wide range of effective tools are available for successfully executing and debugging React native apps. Some of the best ones include:

1. React Native Debugger (Including React DevTools)

React DevTools

React Native provides its own in-app debugging tool specifically designed for React Native applications. It started gaining a lot of popularity in 2017 as a standalone app built on top of the Chrome Developer Tools. Moreover, it can also integrate with Chrome DevTools and Redux DevTools, providing an ultimate enhancement.

You can access this tool by directly visiting React Native’s official website. To execute a debugging of React Native apps, either shake your device or use the below keyboard shortcuts.

Assessing the Dev Menu on Different Platforms

For iOS Simulators

Either press’ Cmd ⌘ + D’ or visit the menu bar at the top of your screen, navigate to ‘Device,’ and select ‘shake.’

For Android Emulators

Either press’ Cmd ⌘ + M’ or simulate a shake by selecting the corresponding option from th emulator’s extended controls.

Besides using keyboard shortcuts and gestures, you can also access the Developer Menu on Android devices and emulators through ‘adb’ (Android Debug Bridge). This is a leading command-line tool that allows seamless communication with an Android device or emulator.

Here’s how it works:

Open a terminal window (on macOS or Linux) or a command prompt (on Windows).Enter the command – ‘adb shell input keyevent 82’. 

Key Features of React Native Debugger

React Native Debugger is a powerful mobile app development tool that combines multiple debugging tools into a single interface. It provides comprehensive functionalities that streamline the development process. Here are the key features of this effective tool for debugging React Native apps. 

1. Reload

A ‘Reload’ feature aims to provide instant feedback when identifying and fixing bugs. To enable this feature, navigate to the ‘Default’ option.

2. Open Debugger

Clicking on ‘Open Debugger’ allows you to access Chrome Developer Tools.

3. Open React DevTools

It is a standalone tool for debugging non-browser-based React Native apps. Thus, clicking on ‘Open React DevTools’ doesn’t redirect you to the tools. Consider installing or running the’ dev tools’ package to access it. Moreover, we highly recommend running this command via nix.

4. Show Inspector

By tapping on ‘Show Inspector,’ you can get detailed info about a specific bug.

5. Disable Fast Refresh

‘Fast Refresh’ is a separate feature in React Native that allows you to instantly see changes in their app without losing the current state. It updates the app when changes are made to the code. However, there may be situations where it is necessary to disable Fast Refresh to debug certain issues.

6. Configure Bundler

‘The Bundler’ is a feature that allows the successful bundling of JavaScript Code and assets for the React Native apps. However, by configuring the bundler, you’ll be able to adjust various settings effectively.

7. Show Performance Monitor

It provides real-time metrics and insights into the performance of your React Native apps.

How to Set Up and Use React Native Debugger?

I. Install React Native Debugger

II. Integrate with Your Project

React Native CLI

  1. Open React Native Debugger.
  2. Start the app’s development server: npx react-native start
  3. Enable debugging:
    • Shake your device or use the simulator’s menu to open the developer menu.
    • Select Debug JS Remotely.

Expo

  1. Open React Native Debugger.
  2. Start Expo project: expo start
  3. Enable debugging:
    • Open the developer menu.
    • Select Debug Remote JS.

III. Use React Native Debugger

  • React DevTools: Inspect and modify components.
  • Redux DevTools: View and manage Redux state and actions.
  • Console: Check app logs.
  • Network: Monitor network requests.

IV. Troubleshooting

  • Ensure ports match (default is 8081).
  • Check network connections.
  • Restart tools if necessary.

2. LogBox

As a well-updated developer, many of you would remember ‘React Native 0.69’ in June 2020. React Native Team debuted an updated framework with the name of ‘React Native 0.69’. This framework brought several improvements and features, including enhancements to LogBox (an innovative tool designed to improve error and warning logging).

LogBox is a comprehensive logging system in React Native that replaces older YellowBox and RedBox systems. It provides more actionable error and warning messages, making logs easier to understand and act upon.

Key Features

1. Notifications

This support of log notifications allows all consoles. Warn and console.log messages to being showed up easily.

2. Code Frames

The inclusion of code frames on the right side of the log inside the app allows you to identify the source code of every warning and error quickly.

3. Component Stacks

Component stacks in LogBox provide detailed information about the hierarchy of React components leading up to an error. Eventually, this feature will allow developers to quickly identify the origination of issues within their code.

4. Stack Frame Collapsing

It is important to clean the relevant codes or frames in an app while executing debugging. This is why Stack Frame Collapsing in LogBox is designed to intelligently collapse frames that are not immediately relevant to the current debugging task, such as internal framework code.

5. Syntax Error Formatting

Syntax error formatting in LogBox enhances the clarity of error messages related to syntax issues, making it easier for developers to spot and fix mistakes in their code.

How to Set Up and Use LogBox?

Before delving into the steps, first, make sure your React Native project is using version 0.63 or higher. You can check this by running the following code.

Check the React Native version by running this code.

After this, enable LogBox in your ‘App.js’ or ‘index.js’ file. Use these codes to do so:

enable LogBox in your ‘App.js file

Once LogBox is set up, consider debugging React Native apps with it. Here’s how it works.

1: LogBox will display a notification at the bottom of your app’s screen whenever an error or warning occurs. Consider tapping on the notification to get detailed information about the error or warning.

2: Upon tapping the notification, you’ll see an error or warning message at the top. Below this message, you’ll see the component stack trace. This is where you’ll see a list of stack frames (specific lines of code). Consider clicking on these frames to redirect yourself straight to the relevant code in your editor.

3: You may find a plethora of stack frames in it. Ultimately, one may feel confused about the most pertinent parts of the stack trace. But you don’t need to worry. LogBox automatically collapses less relevant stack frames to reduce clutter. This way, you can focus on important parts of the stack trace.

4: In the worst scenario, if there’s a syntax error in your code, LogBox will highlight its exact location to help identify the spot and correct the mistake. Moreover, if you find any warnings or errors (that even LogBox features can’t fix), suppress them using:

LogBox features can’t fix

#5: After fixing all the issues, disable LogBox with:

disable LogBox with this code

3. Flipper

flipper react native

Flipper is an open-source platform developed by Facebook that is designed to provide comprehensive debugging and performance tools for mobile app developers. Launched in 2019, Flipper supports both iOS and Android applications, integrating various tools and plugins to streamline debugging workflows. It emerged from the need for a unified platform that could enhance mobile development processes and provide more detailed insights into app behavior.

Features

There are various features that altogether establish Flipper as a reliable tool for debugging React Native apps. Take a look below:

1. Unified Debugging Interface:

Flipper provides a single platform where you can access various debugging tools, streamlining the process of diagnosing and resolving issues. This unified interface helps developers quickly switch between different aspects of debugging without needing multiple tools.

2. Plugin Architecture:

One of Flipper’s key strengths is its extensibility. It supports a wide range of plugins, such as React DevTools, Redux DevTools, and Hermes Debugger. These plugins integrate directly into Flipper, offering specialized functionality for React Native and other frameworks.

3. Interactive Debugging:

Through Flipper, you can interact with your app in real-time. This feature allows you to inspect and modify the app state, trigger actions, and observe changes dynamically, which is helpful for debugging complex issues.

4. Performance Monitoring:

Flipper includes performance monitoring tools that provide insights into key metrics like memory usage, CPU consumption, and network activity. These tools help identify performance bottlenecks and optimize the app’s performance.

5. Network Inspection:

The network plugin in Flipper allows you to inspect and analyze network requests and responses. You can view request details, headers, and payloads, which is crucial for debugging API interactions and ensuring correct data flow.

How to Set Up and Use?

Installation:

Download Flipper from the Flipper website. Choose the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux) and follow the installation instructions.

Integration with React Native:

For iOS:

Add Flipper dependencies to your Podfile:

use_flipper!

Run pod install in your iOS directory to install the dependencies.

For Android:

Modify your android/app/build.gradle to include Flipper dependencies:

Modify your android/app/build.gradle to include Flipper dependencies:

Sync your project with Gradle files to apply the changes.

Configuration:

Ensure that Flipper is correctly initialized in your app’s entry point. For React Native, this usually involves configuring the Flipper initialization in your MainApplication.java file for Android and AppDelegate.m for iOS.

Usage:

Launch Flipper on your desktop and connect it to your running application. You’ll see various plugins and tools in the Flipper interface. Use the plugins to inspect logs, debug errors, and interact with your app.

4. Reactotron

Reactotron is a desktop application developed by Infinite Red specifically for React and React Native developers. It was introduced to offer a straightforward tool for debugging React applications and enhancing developer productivity. Reactotron provides real-time insights and interactions with React applications, making it a valuable asset in development.

Key Features

A significant reason behind the popularity of Reactotron is its features. Take a look below!

1. Real-time State Inspection

Reactotron provides a live view of your app’s state, including Redux store and component state. This real-time inspection helps developers understand how state changes over time and diagnose state-related issues.

2. Action Tracking

It tracks and displays Redux actions and their effects on the state. This feature is useful for debugging Redux-related issues and ensuring that actions are being dispatched and processed correctly.

3. Performance Monitoring

Reactotron offers performance monitoring capabilities, including network request logging and performance metrics. These helps identify slow network requests and optimize the app’s performance.

4. Customizable Plugins

The tool supports various plugins for extended functionality, such as React Navigation tracking, API request logging, and more. These plugins can be tailored to fit specific needs in your development workflow.

How to Set Up and Use?

Installation:

Download Reactotron from the Reactotron GitHub repository. Install the desktop application according to your operating system.

Integration with React Native:

Install Reactotron dependencies in your project:

Install Reactotron dependencies

Configure Reactotron in your project:

  • In your index.js or App.js, initialize Reactotron:
In your index.js or App.js, initialize Reactotron
  • If you’re using Redux, install and configure the Redux plugin for Reactotron:
install and configure the Redux plugin for Reactotron

Add the plugin to your Reactotron configuration:

Add the plugin to your Reactotron configuration

Configuration:

Run your app and check the Reactotron desktop application for activity to ensure Reactotron is properly connected. If needed, configure specific plugins or settings through Reactotron’s configuration options.

Usage:

Launch Reactotron on your desktop and connect it to your app. Use the Reactotron interface to inspect the state, track actions, debug errors, and monitor performance.

5. VS Code Extensions

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a popular open-source code editor developed by Microsoft. Over the last years, VS Code has become widely adopted due to its versatility, rich feature set, and extensive ecosystem of extensions.

It was first announced and released in April 2015. Initially, it was introduced as a cross-platform editor built on the Electron framework, which allows applications to be built using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

However, in 2016, Microsoft expanded VS Code’s functionality by introducing the Extensions Marketplace.

Key Features

The main features of VS Code Extension are given below.  

1. Rich Extension Ecosystem:

VS Code’s extension marketplace offers a vast array of extensions to enhance coding efficiency, including tools for debugging, code linting, and integration with various services.

2. Customizable Environment:

Extensions enable users to customize their coding environment, including themes, keybindings, and settings. This flexibility helps tailor the editor to individual preferences and project needs.

3. Integrated Debugging:

VS Code’s built-in debugging features include breakpoints, variable inspection, call stacks, and interactive debugging. These tools make it easier to diagnose and fix issues directly within the editor.

4. Code Intelligence:

IntelliSense provides autocompletion, code navigation, and refactoring tools. Extensions can enhance IntelliSense capabilities for different languages and frameworks, improving coding efficiency.

How to Set Up and Use?

Installation:

Download and install VS Code from the official VS Code website.

Access Extension Marketplace:

Open VS Code and access the Extensions view by clicking on the Extensions icon in the sidebar or pressing Ctrl+Shift+X.

Search and Install:

Search for extensions relevant to your needs, such as React Native Tools, ESLint, or Prettier. Click “Install” to add them to your VS Code setup.

Configuration:

Configure each extension according to your project requirements. For example, set up debugging configurations in the .vscode/launch.json file for React Native or customize ESLint rules in .eslintrc.

Usage:

Utilize the features provided by the extensions to enhance your development workflow, including debugging React Native apps. Use integrated debugging tools to set breakpoints, inspect variables, and step through code. Apply code linting and formatting to maintain code quality and consistency.

Nuclide: One of the Reliable Tools for Debugging React Native Apps, But No Longer Available Now!

As a well-informed developer, you would definitely have heard of ‘Nuclide.’

Nuclide was a powerful integrated development environment (IDE) created by Facebook in 2015. It was designed and developed by Facebook to enhance the development experience of React Native, Flow, and other technologies. Nuclide was built as a package on top of Atom.

(Atom is an open-source text editor developed by GitHub)

In the mid-2010s, Nuclide became a reliable tool for integrated debugging React Native apps. However, this success was only short-lived. In 2018, Facebook announced that it would discontinue the development and maintenance of Nuclide. Eventually, Nuclide was officially Sunsetted.

While you may still find older versions of Nuclide or its codebase online, they are no longer actively maintained. We highly recommend against using them, as more reliable and technologically advanced tools for debugging React Native apps have arrived on the market.  

(We have provided this information on Nuclide as there were mixed and confused viewpoints on the existence of Nuclide online. Back then, it was a great option for debugging React Native apps. But, in 2024, there are better options)

Best Practices for Effective Debugging

Since we’ve gone through all the best tools for successfully debugging React Native apps, let’s look at the best practices to facilitate an effective debugging process.

1. Using Breakpoints

In simple words, Breakpoints are a fundamental tool for debugging, allowing developers to pause the execution of their code at specific points to inspect the app’s state. This is why and how you can use breakpoints effectively.

a. Strategic Placement

Consider placing breakpoints where you suspect a little about the occurrence of any issue at a key point in the code flow.

(We highly recommend you avoid scattering breakpoints randomly as this can lead to a lot of confusion)

b. Conditional Breakpoints

As their name suggests, ‘Conditional Breakpoints’ can only be used to pause execution when a specific condition is met. Typically, conditional breakpoints are useful in loops or repetitive code where you want to catch a specific case.

2. Source Maps

While using languages that compile to JavaScript (such as TypeScript or CoffeeScript) in debugging, Source Maps are often used to restore minified code to its original state.

Source Maps are files that map the compiled or minified code back to the original source code.

Here are the best practices for using Source Maps.

a. Enable Source Maps in Development

Make sure source maps are enabled in your development environment. You can do this by setting a configuration option in your build tool (e.g., Webpack, Babel).

b. Verify Source Map Accuracy

Double proofreading or verification is an essential task while debugging React Native Apps.

Sometimes, source maps may not accurately map to the original source due to incorrect configuration. Therefore, ensure your build pipeline is correctly set up so that you can generate accurate source maps.

3. Using Log Statements Effectively

If you don’t want to use ultra-technical methods to analyze your code, it is best to write log statements.

Log statements are a simple yet powerful way to understand what is happening in your code at different points in time. By doing so, you can easily identify, analyze, and fix issues.

Given below are some of the best practices for using log statements. Consider reading this.

a. Log Relevant Information

Many developers often understate this practice, but honestly, focusing on logging relevant data like variable values and function entry/exit points surely helps understand the existence of any issue.

b. Use Log Levels

While debugging React Native apps, consider implementing different log levels (like debug, info, warning, and error) to categorize the severity and purpose of the logs. By doing so, you can remove all the irrelevant logs based on what you’re currently investigating.

In JavaScript, use the following codes to categorize logs.

In JavaScript, use the following codes to categorize logs.

Keep these effective practices in mind while debugging React Native apps. By mastering this, you can quickly identify and resolve any existing issues in React Native applications.

Deftsoft: A Leading React Native App Development Company, Helping You in Debugging

With over 18+ years of experience, Deftsoft is a premier React Native App development company. In today’s dynamic world, a well-organized React Native app is essential to enhance the visibility of your business or brand. Trust the expertise of Deftsoft to experience unparalleled React Native app development services. Our team excels in crafting robust, user-friendly apps while prioritizing efficient debugging processes. We leverage advanced debugging techniques to identify and resolve issues swiftly.

Wrapping Up

Mastering debugging React Native apps is essential for making high-quality, reliable applications. In this guide titled ‘Debugging React Native Apps: 5 Best Tools and Practices’, Deftsoft hopes you’ve gained valuable knowledge about this challenging task. Use these effective tools and practices to enhance your debugging process and significantly streamline issue resolution. However, if you’re unable to do it, consider contacting Deftsoft. As a premier React Native app development company, we provide effective solutions, including debugging. Our highly skilled React Native developers use the best tools and practices to ensure a smoother, more productive debugging process, ultimately leading to a more polished and dependable app. Let Deftsoft be a trusted React Native debugger for you!

Contact us for any related information today!  

Unity vs Unreal Engine 5: Which is Better?

Game development is currently experiencing a major boom and game developers are becoming more enthusiastic than ever. They’ve been on a constant hunt for the best game development tools. Talking about game development tools, Unity vs Unreal is a significant game development battle.

The popularity of these two game development engines has enhanced multifold in the past few years. Thanks to the robust and numerous features of the two, game developers can create hyper-realistic games through their help.

If you’re a game developer or gaming fanatic, this blog is a useful resource for you to understand the dynamics of Unity vs Unreal Engine 5. We’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the two gaming engines and which one is more popular.

Without further ado, let’s begin!

What is Unity in Game Development?

Created by Unity Technologies, Unity is a cross-platform game development engine. It is extensively used by developers to create 2D and 3D games across multiple platforms, such as mobile devices, consoles, and PCs. Unity offers a comprehensive set of tools and features that simplify the game development process, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced developers.

Unity game development engine

First released in June 2005 at the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference as a Mac OS X game engine, it now supports multiple platforms, enabling developers to build their game once and deploy it across various devices, including iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and major gaming consoles.

Note: The latest version of Unity, Unity 6, is now available for preview.

Features of Unity Game Engine

Features of Unity Game Engine

The significant features of Unity are as follows:

  • Integrated Development Environment (IDE)

Unity offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface where developers can design, develop, and test their games.

  • Cross-Platform Compatibility

Unity supports multiple platforms, allowing developers to build their game once and deploy it across different devices, including iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox.

  • Asset Store

Unity has an extensive asset store where developers can find pre-made assets such as characters, environments, sounds, and plugins to enhance their games.

  • Scripting

Unity uses C# as its primary scripting language, providing powerful capabilities for customizing game mechanics and behaviors.

  • Graphics and Physics Engines

Unity includes robust graphics and physics engines that enable realistic rendering and interaction within the game world.

  • Community and Support

Unity has a large, active community and a wealth of tutorials, documentation, and forums where developers can find support and share knowledge.

What are the Advantages of Unity Game Development?

Considered one of the most beginner-friendly game development platforms, the Unity engine has many benefits. In fact, this is what an anonymous Reddit user has to say:

“…….To conclude this poem, Unity from my perspective can bring my dream of making a game to life quicker than UE, and most importantly can fuel my motivation more easily.”

There are numerous advantages of Unity game development, thus making it a popular choice among game developers across the globe. The following are the noteworthy benefits of Unity:

  • User-Friendly Interface and Ease of Use

Unity’s integrated development environment (IDE) is known for its intuitive and user-friendly interface. This makes it accessible to beginners who are new to game development. The drag-and-drop functionality, combined with visual editing tools, allows developers to quickly prototype and iterate on their games without needing extensive coding knowledge.

  • Cross-Platform Compatibility

One of Unity’s standout features is its ability to build games for multiple platforms from a single codebase. Developers can create games for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, WebGL, and major gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. This cross-platform compatibility significantly reduces development time and effort, allowing developers to reach a broader audience with minimal additional work.

  • Extensive Asset Store

Unity’s Asset Store is a treasure trove of pre-made assets, including 3D models, animations, sound effects, and plugins. This allows developers to quickly find and integrate high-quality assets into their projects, speeding up the development process and reducing costs. The asset store also offers various tools and extensions that enhance the functionality of the Unity engine.

  • Scripting with C#

Unity uses C# as its primary scripting language, which is known for its ease of use and versatility. C# allows developers to implement complex game mechanics and behaviors efficiently. Additionally, Unity provides extensive documentation and a large community of developers who contribute tutorials and support, making it easier to learn and troubleshoot.

  • Graphics and Performance

While Unity is often compared to Unreal Engine 5 in terms of graphics capabilities, it holds its own with a robust graphics engine that supports advanced rendering techniques. Unity is well-suited for both 2D and 3D games, providing tools to create visually appealing games. When considering Unity vs. Unreal Engine 5, Unreal might have an edge in photorealistic graphics, but Unity excels in flexibility and ease of use for a wide range of projects.

  • Strong Community and Support

Unity boasts a large and active community of developers, which is a significant advantage. The community contributes to forums, shares knowledge, and collaborates on projects, providing a valuable resource for troubleshooting and learning. Unity Technologies also offers extensive documentation, tutorials, and support to help developers at all skill levels.

What are the Disadvantages of Unity Game Development?

While Unity offers numerous advantages, it also has some disadvantages that developers should consider. Here are some of the key drawbacks:

  • Performance Limitations

One significant disadvantage of Unity is its performance limitations, particularly for high-end, graphically intensive games. Compared to Unreal Engine, Unity’s graphics rendering capabilities are not as advanced. This can be a critical factor in the debate of Unreal Engine vs Unity, especially for developers aiming to create photorealistic environments or highly detailed 3D models.

  • Asset Overhead

Unity’s extensive asset store, while beneficial, can sometimes lead to issues with asset quality and optimization. Developers may rely heavily on third-party assets, which can result in inconsistent performance and visual quality. Managing and optimizing these assets to ensure smooth gameplay can be challenging, adding to development time and effort.

  • Limited Out-of-the-Box Tools

Unity provides a versatile platform, but some advanced features and tools may require additional plugins or custom development. For example, high-end visual effects, advanced physics, and certain AI functionalities often need third-party plugins or extensive scripting. In the comparison of Unreal Engine vs Unity, Unreal Engine offers more built-in tools and features for such complex requirements, potentially reducing the need for additional resources.

  • Complexity in Larger Projects

As projects scale up in size and complexity, Unity can become harder to manage. Large teams may struggle with version control and project organization. Unity’s component-based architecture, while flexible, can make maintaining clean and efficient codebases for extensive projects difficult.

  • Subscription Costs

While Unity offers a free version, the Pro version comes with subscription costs that might not be affordable for all developers, especially indie developers and small studios. The ongoing costs can add up, making budget management a concern. This financial aspect is often highlighted in discussions of Unreal Engine vs Unity, where Unreal Engine’s royalty-based model might be more attractive for some developers.

  • Limited High-End Visual Capabilities

Unity’s graphics engine, though robust, does not match the high-end visual capabilities of Unreal Engine. Developers looking for cutting-edge graphics often find Unreal Engine more suitable due to its superior rendering capabilities and advanced visual effects. This difference is crucial in the Unreal Engine vs Unity debate for developers prioritizing top-tier visual fidelity.

What is Unreal Engine in Game Development?

Unreal Engine is a game development platform introduced by Epic Games, the same company that created Fortnite. This game development engine was showcased for the very first time in a first-person shooter video game called Unreal in 1998.

unreal engine game development engine

It is a powerful and widely-used game development engine known for its high-fidelity graphics and robust feature set. Unreal Engine 5, the latest iteration, pushes the boundaries of visual realism and performance with groundbreaking technologies.

Features of Unreal Engine

features of Unreal Engine

The significant features of Unreal Engine are as follows:

  • Nanite Virtualized Geometry

Nanite allows developers to create highly detailed environments without compromising performance. It efficiently handles millions of polygons, enabling stunningly detailed models and textures that scale seamlessly.

  • Lumen Global Illumination

Lumen provides real-time dynamic lighting, offering realistic lighting and reflections without the need for complex baking processes. This makes it easier to create immersive environments that respond to changes in lighting conditions.

  • Enhanced Performance and Scalability

Unreal Engine 5 is optimized for next-generation consoles and high-end PCs, delivering exceptional performance. Its scalable architecture ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, from powerful gaming rigs to mobile platforms.

  • MetaHuman Creator

This tool enables the creation of highly realistic human characters quickly and easily. Developers can generate lifelike characters with detailed facial animations and expressions.

  • Quixel Megascans Integration

Unreal Engine 5 integrates with Quixel Megascans, providing access to a vast library of high-quality 3D assets and textures. This integration streamlines the asset creation process, saving time and enhancing visual quality.

What are the Advantages of Unreal Engine Game Development?

Here are some of the key advantages of using Unreal Engine for game development:

  • High-Quality Visuals and Graphics

Unreal Engine is renowned for its capability to produce stunning, high-quality visuals. Its rendering engine supports complex shaders and high-resolution textures, allowing developers to create realistic and immersive environments. The visuals make it a strong contender in the Unity vs Unreal debate, especially for projects that prioritize graphical excellence.

  • Blueprint Visual Scripting

Unreal Engine’s Blueprint system offers a visual scripting language that enables developers to create gameplay mechanics, animations, and more without writing code. This feature is particularly useful for designers and artists who may not have extensive programming knowledge but want to prototype and implement features quickly. In the Unity vs Unreal Engine 5 comparison, Blueprint gives Unreal an edge in terms of accessibility for non-programmers.

  • Strong Community and Support

The Unreal Engine community is large and active, providing a wealth of resources, tutorials, and forums for developers to seek help and share knowledge. Epic Games also offers extensive official documentation and learning resources, making it easier for developers to get started and improve their skills. 

  • Integrated Tools and Ecosystem

Unreal Engine comes with a suite of integrated tools that streamline the development process. These tools include a robust animation system, a material editor, and advanced physics and particle systems. This comprehensive toolset reduces the need for external plugins and third-party tools, which is a notable advantage when comparing Unity 3D to Unreal Engine.

  • Versatility Across Industries

While primarily known for game development, Unreal Engine is also used in various other industries, such as film, architecture, automotive, and virtual production. Its versatility and high-quality output make it suitable for creating cinematic experiences, architectural visualizations, and interactive simulations.

  • Performance and Optimization

Unreal Engine is designed to maximize performance and optimize game rendering. Its architecture supports the efficient handling of complex scenes and high-fidelity graphics, ensuring smooth gameplay even on demanding projects. This focus on performance is a key advantage when considering Unity vs Unreal for high-end game development.

  • Marketplace and Asset Availability

The Unreal Engine Marketplace offers a wide range of assets, including 3D models, animations, sounds, and plugins. This extensive library allows developers to find and integrate high-quality assets into their projects easily.

What are the Disadvantages of Unreal Engine Game Development?

While Unreal Engine may be considered a powerful and versatile engine for creating solid games, it also has its fair share of disadvantages. Here are some of the key drawbacks:

  • Steeper Learning Curve

Unreal Engine is known for its complexity, which can pose a challenge for beginners. Its comprehensive feature set and advanced tools require a significant time investment to master. Compared to Unity, which is often considered more user-friendly, the learning curve can be a deterrent for new developers. This is a crucial factor in the Unity vs. Unreal debate, especially for those just starting in game development.

  • Performance Overheads

Despite its high-performance capabilities, Unreal Engine can have substantial performance overheads, particularly for smaller projects or less powerful hardware. The engine’s advanced features and graphical capabilities can lead to longer loading times and higher system requirements. In the Unity vs. Unreal Engine 5 comparison, Unity often proves to be more efficient for simpler, less resource-intensive projects.

  • Licensing and Costs

While Unreal Engine offers a royalty-based licensing model, this can become expensive for successful games. Developers are required to pay a percentage of their revenue after a certain threshold, which can add up for high-earning titles. In contrast, Unity provides a subscription-based model that may be more predictable in terms of budgeting. This aspect is frequently discussed in the Unreal Engine vs. Unity evaluation.

  • Resource Intensity

Unreal Engine’s powerful features come at the cost of being resource-intensive. Development projects in Unreal Engine often require more powerful hardware and larger development teams to fully utilize its capabilities. This can be a limitation for indie developers and smaller studios, making Unity 3D vs. Unreal Engine a critical consideration for those with limited resources.

  • Community and Support Disparities

While Unreal Engine has a strong community and support system, it can be less accessible than Unity’s. Unity’s larger user base and more extensive documentation can make finding solutions and getting help easier.

Which Engine is Better for Game Development: Unity vs Unreal Engine 5?

When entering the Unity vs Unreal Engine 5 debates, there are a significant number of factors that decide which gaming platform is better. The answer is quite subjective. 

If you’re a mere beginner who wants to get the hang of game development, then Unity is more beginner-friendly than Unreal Engine. On the other hand, you need a bunch of dedicated time to figure out how to use the various tools in Unity Engine. Most of the Unreal tools such as animations, VFX, sound, AI, terrains and physics go unused.

Also, Unity supports cross-platform development, supports lower-performance machines and is quick and simple to iterate, therefore, providing a powerful toolbox to create any type of game.

However, if you’ve been a professional in the gaming industry for years, Unreal Engine is your best friend. You can create hyper-realistic games as it provides multi-layered professional tools that require years of dedicated experience to use properly.

And, what about which engine is more popular?

Over the past five years, people are showing more interest in Unity than Unreal Engine because of its beginner-friendliness and the ease to iterate the code. The following data from Google Trends is a witness in itself!

data from Google Trends

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FAQs:

1. What are the key differences between Unity vs Unreal Engine 5?

Unity and Unreal Engine 5 both offer powerful tools for game development but they have distinct features. Unity is known for its user-friendly interface and cross-platform compatibility, making it ideal for beginners and smaller projects. In contrast, Unreal Engine 5 excels in high-fidelity graphics and advanced rendering capabilities, making it a preferred choice for experienced developers aiming for photorealistic environments. 

2. How does the learning curve of Unreal Engine vs Unity compare?

Unity is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its intuitive interface and extensive documentation. Unreal Engine 5 has a steeper learning curve because of its comprehensive feature set and advanced tools. Beginners might find Unity easier to get started with, while seasoned developers might prefer the powerful capabilities of Unreal Engine vs Unity.

3. Which engine performs better for mobile game development: Unity 3D vs Unreal Engine?

Unity 3D is highly regarded for its cross-platform support and optimization for mobile devices, making it a popular choice for mobile game developers. Unreal Engine 5 also supports mobile development but is often favored for its high-end graphics and performance, which might be overkill for simpler mobile games. When considering Unity vs Unreal for mobile, Unity’s efficiency and ease of use give it an edge.

4. What are the advantages of using Unity vs Unreal Engine for indie developers?

Indie developers often prefer Unity vs Unreal Engine due to Unity’s user-friendly interface, extensive asset store, and lower system requirements. Unity allows indie developers to quickly prototype and deploy games across multiple platforms without extensive coding knowledge. Unreal Engine 5 offers advanced features and high-quality graphics but can be more resource-intensive and complex.

5. Which engine is more popular in the industry today: Unity vs Unreal Engine 5?

In recent years, Unity has gained more traction, especially among beginners and small to mid-sized studios. Unity’s ease of use, extensive community support, and cross-platform capabilities are beneficial. Unreal Engine 5 is highly regarded for its cutting-edge graphics and is preferred by larger studios and professionals in the industry. However, Google Trends data indicates a growing interest in Unity vs Unreal due to its beginner-friendliness and iterative development process.

Non-Negotiable Tips for Developing a P2P Lending Platform

The world is emerging with new methodologies to find alternatives to traditional lending systems and P2P lending platforms have democratized the finance scenario. Because of lucrative borrowing and investing options, people are swaying away from conventional monetary systems. 

According to Yahoo Finance, the global P2P lending market is poised for significant growth, with a projected market share of USD 621.3 billion by 2032. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.1% between the forecast period of 2023 and 2032, signaling a wealth of opportunities for those in the industry.

Whether you’re a business organization or enterprise looking to build a P2P lending platform, we have gathered the most practical tips to keep in mind before and after developing a successful P2P lending platform.

Before discovering the tips for a robust P2P lending platform, it is important to understand how P2P platforms make money.

How Can You Benefit from P2P Lending Platform Development?

A peer-to-peer lending platform is a decentralized common ground for lending and borrowing money. Powered by blockchain, it is not owned by any third-party beneficiary, financial institutions, banks, NBFCs, or credit brokers. 

Borrowers and lenders can sign up on a P2P lending platform through KYC/AML verification. A dedicated crypto wallet is assigned to investors and borrowers. Lenders can find their borrower match and gain competitive interest rates. 

But how does a P2P lending platform earn money?

Investors and borrowers pay a particular platform fee when making transactions on a P2P lending platform. The platform also charges a fee when someone avails of the platform’s services.

Top Tips to Consider Before P2P Lending Platform Development

Tips to Consider Before P2P Lending Platform Development

Here are the topmost tips to consider right before developing a P2P lending platform:

1. Research About the Market’s Needs

The first step before developing a P2P lending platform is to perform comprehensive market research about what the user wants. It is very critical to analyze the pain points that are prevailing in conventional lending systems and how you can address the pain points of investors and borrowers. You must also understand how you can offer unique values and attractive interest rates to the users.

2. Focus on a User-Friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface can make or break your P2P lending platform’s success. Make sure that you create a design that is intuitive to navigate, offers a simplified transaction process and streamlined workflows, provides an easy loan application process and is transparent about its terms and conditions.

3. Top-Tier Security and Compliance 

User security and compliance are pivotal in ensuring the safety and protection of users leveraging the P2P lending platform. You must incorporate regulatory standards into the platform’s software along with legal considerations. This practice will help curate a P2P lending platform with end-to-end security.

4. Broad Spectrum of Lending Products

Your P2P lending platform must offer a diverse range of loans to borrowers and investors. These lending options include business loans, personal loans, student loans, medical loans, etc. Therefore, you will be able to attract a wide variety of users to your P2P lending platform.

5. Implement Credit Scoring and Risk Assessment 

Integrating a credit scoring system is important to help lenders estimate the risk involved in lending money to the borrowers. This system can analyze a borrower’s complete lending history—whether he has previously been a defaulter or not—the borrower’s profile and other important data to understand the risk involved. 

The P2P lending platform developers can use new-age machine learning functionalities and algorithms to build a foolproof and compelling P2P lending platform for investors and borrowers.

6. Built-In Profile Matching

Automation can ease down various processes such as document verification, loan application review, credit history checks and lender-borrower profile matching. P2P lending developers can define certain criteria that can speed up the lending process and facilitate the mediation of successful loan transactions.

7. Integrated Real-Time Updates

You must create a dedicated platform dashboard that provides real-time updates about the loan application, its status, interest rates, loan repayment notifications to the borrowers, monthly interest gained by the lenders, etc. This transparent communication through a P2P lending platform facilitates real-time updates.

Top Tips to Consider After Developing P2P Lending Platform

Tips to Consider After Developing P2P Lending Platform

Once the P2P lending developers have created the platform, here are some of the top tips to consider for your P2P lending platform:

1. Robust Customer Support

Quick and responsive customer support plays a significant role in determining the success of a P2P lending platform. You must have an effective and easy-to-use customer support system that quickly resolves users’ queries, whether the user has inquiries as a borrower or investor.

2. Efficient Platform Updates

You must ensure that the P2P lending platform is up-to-date with the latest industry standards by frequently pushing out new updates to the platform. Along with regular updates, you must specialize in keeping the app in compliance with the industry’s latest security standards.

3. Smart Default Handling

Your P2P lending platform must also have a smart system for handling the borrower defaults. In case of loan defaults, there must be a robust and efficient dispute system so that the dispute can be resolved easily.

Conclusion

Peer-to-peer lending has revolutionized the lending scenario entirely by eliminating any kind of intrusion from third-party beneficiaries. The rapid growth of the P2P lending market presents a significant opportunity for businesses and enterprises to develop innovative and user-friendly platforms. By focusing on thorough market research, user-friendly interfaces, top-tier security, diverse lending products, and advanced credit scoring, developers can create successful P2P lending platforms. 

Post-development, maintaining robust customer support, regular platform updates, and efficient default handling are crucial for long-term success. Embracing these non-negotiable tips ensures the creation of a compelling and secure P2P lending platform that meets the evolving needs of borrowers and investors.

FAQs

1. What is a P2P lending platform?

A P2P lending platform is a decentralized marketplace that connects borrowers and lenders directly, bypassing traditional financial institutions. It is often powered by blockchain technology to ensure security and transparency.

2. How do P2P lending platforms make money?

P2P lending platforms earn money through platform fees charged to both borrowers and lenders for transactions and services provided on the platform.

3. Why is a user-friendly interface important for a P2P lending platform?

A user-friendly interface ensures that users can easily navigate the platform, apply for loans, and complete transactions smoothly, which is crucial for the platform’s success and user satisfaction.

4. What security measures should a P2P lending platform include?

The platform should incorporate regulatory standards, legal considerations, and robust security protocols to protect user data and ensure compliance with industry standards.

5. How can a P2P lending platform handle borrower defaults?

A smart default handling system should be in place, including an efficient dispute resolution process to manage loan defaults and ensure smooth resolution of any issues that arise.

The 8 Leading Cross-Platform App Development Frameworks You Should Know

The tech world was introduced to the term ‘cross-platform’ right back in September 2018 when Sony announced that it had opened the doors for cross-platform play on PlayStation 4 for Fortnite. It was a game-changer in the gaming and development industry!

This is when many developers and software engineers in the masses got thrilled about the concept of cross-platform development. Fast-forward to 2024, cross-platform app development has become a staple for both iOS and Android apps.

One recent study revealed that approximately 87% of developers are currently relying on cross-platform frameworks for mobile app development. 

This blog will familiarize you with the best cross-platform app development frameworks you can use for your project. You’ll also understand what’s the buzz about cross-platform mobile app development frameworks and how you can find the best cross-platform framework for your project.

Understanding the Buzzword ‘Cross-Platform’ Development

Cross-platform development refers to creating software applications that can run on multiple operating systems (OS) without needing to be rewritten for each one. Instead of building separate versions for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, developers use tools and languages that allow a single codebase to be deployed across different platforms.

Imagine you want to build a mobile app. Traditionally, you would need to write one version in Swift or Objective-C for iOS and another in Java or Kotlin for Android. Cross-platform development simplifies this process.

For example, using a framework like Flutter, you write your app in the Dart programming language. This single codebase can then be compiled to run on both iOS and Android devices.

How Cross-Platform Frameworks Come into Play?

Cross-platform frameworks are essential for the process of cross-platform mobile app development. They provide the necessary tools, libraries, and runtime environments to ensure the app works correctly on various platforms. 

Popular frameworks include Flutter, React Native, Xamarin, and many more. These frameworks bridge the gap between the different operating systems, translating the single codebase into native code for each platform. 

This approach saves time, reduces development costs, and ensures a consistent user experience across devices. Let’s explore the top 8 most popular cross-platform mobile development frameworks that can help you save time and generate an outstanding, power-packed app.

App Developers Most Used Cross-Platform Development Frameworks 

It’s time to explore the best cross-platform app development frameworks that are mostly used by top-notch app developers:

1. Flutter

When talking about their favorite choice, developers talk about Flutter. Created by Google, Flutter is an open UI toolkit that allows web, mobile and desktop app developers to create cross-platform apps. They just need to use a single codebase to build apps for various platforms and devices. 

Programming Language Used: It uses a modern and expressive language called Dart, which allows quicker development.

Best Feature: Your app feels exactly like a native app on any device, as Flutter combines the native code within half the budget.

Flutter interface

Some of the main highlighting features of Flutter are as follows:

  • Hot Reload

Developers can easily keep up with the changes in the code as they are reflected simultaneously. Because of the faster development cycles, developers can easily find the best fit for UI concepts and introduce error correction. 

  • Native Feature Adaptation: 

Flutter has the freedom to integrate various native functionalities such as geolocation, camera access, etc. This helps developers to tap into platform-specific widgets such as Google Fuchsia, iOS and Android.

  • Broad-Spectrum Support: 

The Flutter framework is not just a framework to build cross-platform app for iOS and Android, it can also be used to build desktop and web applications. So, if you’re new to development, you can learn Flutter and master building apps for various platforms.

Pros:

  • Useful for startups as it is economical
  • High-customization availability
  • Smooth integration with popular IDEs such as Android Studio and VSCode
  • Extensive widget library

Cons:

  • Not suitable for enterprise-level projects
  • Dart programming language is not that popular
  • It is a comparatively young
  • Apps created are larger in size

Popular Flutter Apps:

  • Alibaba
  • Hamilton
  • BMW
  • GooglePay

2. React Native

React Native is an open-source, cross-platform framework that originated in 2015. It was launched by Facebook and is based on the JavaScript and React. Focused on mobile app development, developers can build robust mobile apps.  This framework enables code sharing between iOS and Android, reducing the time and cost of development.

Programming Language Used: JavaScript

Best Feature: React Native provides a near-native performance for both iOS and Android with a single codebase.

React Native

Some of the main highlighting features of React Native are as follows:

  • Multi-Language Support:

One of the best parts of React Native is that it supports multiple programming languages such as JavaScript, Objective-C, C++, Java and Python.

  • Native Module Integration

React Native allows seamless integration with native modules written in Swift, Objective-C, or Java. Therefore, it saves a lot of time for mobile app developers.

  • Extensive Community Support

 With a vast community of developers, finding solutions to issues and accessing various plugins and extensions is straightforward. This cross-platform framework is relatively older than Flutter and is more popular.

Pros:

  • Reusable code for both iOS and Android
  • Large community and extensive libraries
  • Strong performance close to native

Cons:

  • Native modules might be required for complex features
  • Performance can vary based on the app’s complexity

Popular React Native Apps:

  • Instagram
  • Airbnb
  • Facebook

3. Ionic

ionic framework

Ionic is a popular cross-platform framework that leverages web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build mobile applications. Established in 2013 by Drift CO, it allows developers to create high-quality apps with a single codebase. In short, it is an open-source mobile UI toolkit.

Programming Language Used: JavaScript (Angular, React, or Vue)

Best Feature: Ionic’s comprehensive library of native plugins and UI components ensures that apps have a native look and feel.

Some of the main highlighting features of Ionic are as follows:

  • Adaptive Styling

Ionic adapts to the platform it’s running on, thus providing a native-like experience on both iOS and Android. When Ionic is paired with Angular, it offers outstanding results, especially in organizing app structure.

  • Cordova Plugins

Ionic cross-platform framework allows you to access native device features using Apache Cordova plugins. This integration helps you provide an immersive experience by harnessing the power of native features including camera, contacts, geolocation, and many more.

  • PWA Support

Ionic is not just limited to native apps but it also extends its support in building Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), allowing for the creation of web-based mobile apps. 

Pros:

  • Extensive UI component library
  • Strong community support
  • Easy integration with Angular, React, or Vue

Cons:

  • Performance can be less optimal for complex applications
  • Requires knowledge of web technologies

Popular Ionic Apps:

  • MarketWatch
  • Pacifica
  • Sworkit

4. Xamarin

Xamarin is a Microsoft product that was launched as a cross-platform framework in May 2011. It is a robust cross-platform mobile app development framework with a high rate of efficiency, as it allows developers to share almost 90% of their code with other platforms. It also allows developers to build iOS and Android applications using C# and .NET.

Programming Language Used: C#

Best Feature: Xamarin provides a near-native performance and extensive access to native APIs, ensuring high-quality app performance.

Xamarin framework

Some of the main highlighting features of Xamarin are as follows:

  • Native Performance

Xamarin uses native UI controls to ensure that apps not only look native but also perform with the same efficiency and responsiveness as applications built specifically for iOS or Android. This means that the user experience is seamless and fluid, closely mirroring that of a fully native app, which is crucial for user retention and satisfaction.

  • Single Tech Stack

With Xamarin, developers can build apps using a single language, C#, across all platforms. This unified approach simplifies the development process, reduces the learning curve, and ensures consistency in code quality. It also allows for easier maintenance and updates.

  • Integrated Testing

Xamarin provides comprehensive tools for testing apps on multiple devices through the Xamarin Test Cloud. This allows mobile developers to ensure their apps function correctly on various devices and screen sizes, identifying and resolving issues before deployment

Pros:

  • Native performance and access to native APIs
  • Comprehensive development environment with Visual Studio
  • Strong support from Microsoft

Cons:

  • Larger app size compared to other frameworks
  • Learning curve for developers unfamiliar with C#

Popular Xamarin Apps:

  • Storyo
  • Alaska Airlines
  • FreshDirect

5. NativeScript

NativeScript is an open-source, cross-platform framework for building truly native mobile applications using JavaScript, TypeScript, or Angular. Launched in 2014 by Progress Software Corporation, it allows developers to leverage native APIs directly without any web views.

Programming Language Used: JavaScript, TypeScript, Angular

Best Feature: NativeScript provides direct access to native APIs, ensuring high performance and a native user experience.

NativeScript is an open-source, cross-platform framework

Some of the main highlighting features of NativeScript are as follows:

  • Native Performance

NativeScript utilizes native components for the user interface, ensuring apps have a genuine native look and feel on both iOS and Android. This approach provides seamless and efficient user experiences comparable to fully native apps.

  • Single Codebase

With NativeScript, developers can write their code once and deploy it on both iOS and Android platforms. This significantly reduces development time and costs, allowing for a unified approach to app creation.

  • Extensible Plugins

NativeScript offers an extensive library of plugins that developers can use to enhance and extend the functionality of their apps. This flexibility allows for the easy integration of various features and capabilities.

Pros:

  • True native performance
  • Strong integration with Angular
  • Access to native APIs without additional plugins

Cons:

  • Smaller community compared to React Native and Flutter
  • Learning curve for those new to Angular or TypeScript

Popular NativeScript Apps:

  • SAP Fiori Client
  • Strudel
  • Beachy

6. Unity

Unity is a leading cross-platform development framework released in June 2005 by Unity Technologies. Originally introduced as a Mac OS X game engine, it is primarily used for building games but can also be used to create simulations and other interactive experiences. It supports 2D and 3D game development.

Programming Language Used: C#

Best Feature: Unity’s powerful graphics and physics engines make it ideal for game development.

Unity is a leading cross-platform development framework

Some of the main highlighting features of Unity are as follows:

  • Extensive Asset Store

Unity’s Asset Store provides developers with access to a vast library of assets and plugins. This resource includes everything from pre-built characters and environments to complex scripts and extensions. By integrating high-quality, ready-made components, Unity saves significant development time and effort.

  • Multi-Platform Support

With Unity, developers can create their applications once and deploy them across over 25 different platforms, including mobile devices, desktops, and gaming consoles. This broad support ensures maximum reach and flexibility, allowing developers to target a wide audience with minimal additional work.

  • Strong Community

Unity boasts a large, active community and extensive documentation, providing robust support for developers at all levels. The community offers forums, tutorials, and resources that can help resolve issues, share best practices, and inspire new ideas, making the development process smoother and more collaborative.

Pros:

  • Powerful graphics and physics engines
  • Extensive asset store
  • Wide platform support

Cons:

  • Overkill for simple applications
  • Steeper learning curve for non-game developers

Popular Unity Apps:

  • Pokémon Go
  • Monument Valley
  • Angry Birds 2

7. Solar2D

Solar2D, formerly known as Corona SDK, is a cross-platform framework ideal for 2D game development. It was released in December 2009 and became a preferred language for building mobile, desktop and connected TV apps. It uses a simple, easy-to-learn language and offers a high-performance graphics engine.

Programming Language Used: Lua

Best Feature: Solar2D’s lightweight and fast performance make it ideal for mobile game development.

solar2d

Some of the main highlighting features of Solar2D are as follows:

  • High-Performance Graphics

Solar2D is optimized for 2D graphics, making it an ideal choice for game development. Its high-performance graphics engine ensures smooth animations and detailed visuals, crucial for creating engaging and visually appealing games.

  • Ease of Use

Solar2D uses a simple programming language, Lua, and an intuitive API, enabling rapid development. This ease of use allows developers to quickly prototype, test, and deploy their games, reducing development time and effort.

  • Cross-Platform

With Solar2D, developers can create games for iOS, Android, and other platforms using a single codebase. This cross-platform capability streamlines the development process and maximizes reach.

Pros:

  • High performance for 2D games
  • Easy to learn and use
  • Active community and extensive documentation

Cons:

  • Limited to 2D applications
  • Smaller community compared to major frameworks

Popular Solar2D Apps:

  • Fun Run 2
  • Zip Zap

8. Cordova

Apache Cordova (formerly PhoneGap as named by Adobe Systems) is an open-source mobile development framework created in 2009 by Nitobi but was later on purchased by Adobe Systems. It allows developers to build apps using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It wraps your code in a native container to access device capabilities.

Programming Language Used: HTML, CSS, JavaScript

Best Feature: Cordova’s extensive plugin library allows access to native device features.

Cordova mobile development framework

Some of the main highlighting features of the Cordova framework are as follows:

  • Plugin Architecture

Cordova extends app functionality with a wide range of plugins. It offers customization, flexibility, modularity, and community engagement. Developers can add or remove features without changing the core application code.

  • Web Technologies

This cross-platform framework leverages web technologies such as HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript to build mobile applications. These apps can potentially run on multiple platforms (iOS and Android) with minimal modifications.

Pros:

  • Familiar web technology stack
  • Extensive plugin library
  • Wide platform support

Cons:

  • Performance might not match native apps
  • Dependence on plugins for native functionality

Popular Cordova Apps:

  • FanReact
  • Pacifica
  • JustWatch

Join Hands with the Innovative Cross-Platform Development Company

Are you struggling to find the right cross-platform framework for your project? Look no further than Deftsoft, a premier cross-platform app development company that builds customized solutions for enterprises, business organizations and startups. 

Our team of experienced cross-platform developers, UI/UX designers and testers have an experience of more than a decade in various avenues and segments. Achieve accelerated business success by opting for outcome-centric cross-platform app development services. Reach out today for customized cross-platform development.

FAQs:

1. What is cross-platform app development?

Cross-platform app development refers to creating software applications that can run on multiple operating systems (OS) using a single codebase. This approach eliminates the need to develop separate versions for each platform, such as iOS and Android, streamlining the development process and reducing costs.

2. Why choose cross-platform frameworks for mobile app development?

Cross-platform frameworks like Flutter, React Native, and Xamarin enable developers to write code once and deploy it across multiple platforms. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency in user experience across different devices, making it a preferred choice for businesses aiming to reach a broader audience efficiently.

3. What are the benefits of using cross-platform mobile development frameworks?

These frameworks offer advantages such as cost-effectiveness due to shared codebase, faster time-to-market, and easier maintenance. They also provide access to native features and APIs, ensuring that apps perform well and integrate seamlessly with device functionalities.

4. Which cross-platform framework is best suited for my project?

The choice of framework depends on factors like project requirements, team expertise, and desired app performance. Flutter is known for its fast development cycles and native-like UI, while React Native offers strong community support and compatibility with JavaScript libraries.

5. Are there any drawbacks to using cross-platform frameworks?

While cross-platform development offers many benefits, challenges may include performance issues on complex applications, dependency on framework updates, and limitations in accessing platform-specific features without custom native code integration.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Build a dApp on Ethereum with Ease 

A technology that started with a digital currency called Bitcoin has now opened the door to building fully functional apps. Many people confuse Ethereum with Bitcoin; however, they’re not the same.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of creating a decentralized app (dApp) on the Ethereum blockchain platform, then this guide is a treasure trove of knowledge for you. It’s your key to unlocking the world of dApp development. Let’s get started.

Is Ethereum Just Another Bitcoin?

Ethereum is not a digital currency like Bitcoin. However, it is a software platform built on blockchain that allows developers to build decentralized apps (dApps).

Ethereum was ideated by Russian-Canadian programmer and cryptocurrency researcher Vitalic Bitterin in 2013. Later, in 2015, it went live. The simplest explanation of Ethereum in two words is ‘Software platform.’

So, how does Ethereum differ from Bitcoin?

“Bitcoin and Ethereum are both use cases of blockchain technology with different purposes.”

– CryptoCasey’s podcast

Bitcoin is simply a digital currency that people can use as a form of payment to send to and from each other or hold as a store of value. On the other hand, Ethereum is a programmable blockchain that people can use to build software to create valuable products and services due to the decentralization properties of blockchain technology.

The software that people can build on Ethereum is called decentralized applications or dApps.

What Exactly is a dApp?

A decentralized app or dApp is an app whose data is stored on a distributed network of computers. It is a Web3 app that can be developed on a platform that is built on blockchain. A dApp enjoys three main benefits of being developed on a blockchain network. These are:

  • Decentralization

 The blockchain network is decentralized. Firstly, it means that the data is stored on a group of computers (nodes) rather than on a central server. Secondly, the network is not owned by any third-party intermediary, not even the government.

  • Transparency

Another important asset of blockchain is transparency. This means that the transactions recorded on the ledger are available for everyone to see and are stored on a network of computers around the world, thus making data impossible to alter or modify.

  • Immutability

Immutability simply means that the data recorded and stored on the blockchain cannot be changed, altered or forged. This un-modification of records is achieved through cryptography and blockchain hashing processes.

In simple words, when a Web3 developer builds a dApp on a blockchain network like Ethereum, he knows that no one can control the data or network or destroy it.

Also Read: The Beginner’s Handbook to Decentralized Apps (dApps)

Things to Know Before Building a dApp on Ethereum

There are two main things to know before beginning to build a dApp on Ethereum. Follow along!

  1. Know About Gas Fee

As discussed before, blockchain is decentralized, meaning it is software distributed across a vast network of computers around the world to incentivize people to host and maintain data on the blockchain. Ether was created as a form of payment to fuel the Ethereum network. 

So, anyone who wants to build a software application, i.e., dApp on an Ethereum network has to pay for the computing power and space required for using Ether. The amount of Ether required for network fees is determined by a built-in pricing system known as Gas.

Note: You only need to pay the gas fee for dApp deployment.

  1. Proficient in JavaScript and/or Solidity

If you’re entirely new to blockchain and dApp development, you cannot directly jump on learning about blockchain programming languages. You must first have the time and patience to learn a basic programming language such as JavaScript or Python. You must also be aware of front-end development as well. It is only then that you can plunge your hands into blockchain programming languages such as Solidity or Go to build smart contracts from dApp.

How to Create a dApp on Ethereum Step-by-Step?

Now that you’re aware of what you need to create a dApp on Ethereum let’s address our primary focus: how to build a dApp on Ethereum. There are numerous steps involved in building a dApp, such as setting up the development environment to deploy the smart contract and then creating a frontend so that the users can interact with the app.

Follow the given roadmap to build dApp on Ethereum:

Create a dApp on Ethereum Step-by-Step_

1. Prepare Your Development Environment

You need to install the following tools and runtime environment:

  • Install Node.js runtime environment and npm package to run JavaScript applications and manage packages. You can download Node.js from here.
  • The next step is to download Truffle, a popular development framework for Ethereum. You can install Truffle with the following bash script on Node.js:

npm install -g truffle

  • Then, download Ganache, an Ethereum development tool that allows you to simulate the blockchain environment locally and deploy smart contracts.
  • It is important to download a software cryptocurrency wallet to interact with Ethereum. To do this, download MetaMask, a browser extension for managing Ethereum accounts and interacting with the blockchain.

2. Code a Truffle Project

After installing all the required tools, create a new Truffle project and set up your directory infrastructure. The goal of Truffle is to deploy dApps and smart contracts to Ethereum. It offers you all the tools and libraries to simplify development, building the contract, testing, deploying and managing it.

3. Write Smart Contract

You can write the smart contract in Solidity, which is one of the most widely used blockchain programming languages for Ethereum. Compile and migrate the smart contract using Truffle. A good tip is to connect your GitHub repository to Truffle Teams.

4. Test Smart Contract

You can write the tests in Mocha and Chai to test the functioning of your smart contract.

5. Build a Frontend to Interact with Smart Contracts

To interact with the smart contract, you need a front-end framework such as React.js. This allows you to integrate Web3.js with the Ethereum blockchain.

6. Finally, Deploy the dApp

Once you’re satisfied with the created version of your dApp, it’s time to deploy your smart contract to Ethereum. You can promote it to production by deploying it to Mainnet or any testnet. After that, connect your frontend with the deployed contract.

Build a dApp on Ethereum with an Example

It’s good to have practical knowledge, but what’s fun when you don’t know how to code the dApp in real life? To make it easy, we’ve taken an example of a peer-to-peer lending dApp that you can build by following these steps. Consider this practice as a warmup exercise so that you can get started with creating your own dApp on Ethereum.

Here are the practical steps to build a dApp on Ethereum:

  1. Set Up Development Environment

The steps are already mentioned above.

  1. Creating a Truffle Project
  • Use the following bash script to initialize the Truffle project:

mkdir LendingDApp

cd LendingDApp

truffle init

  • Use the following Arduino code to prepare the directory structure:

LendingDApp/

├── contracts/

│   ├── Migrations.sol

│   └── Lending.sol

├── migrations/

│   ├── 1_initial_migration.js

│   └── 2_deploy_contracts.js

├── test/

├── truffle-config.js

  1. Write the Smart Contract
  • Create ‘Lending.sol’ in ‘contracts’ folder by writing the following Solidity code:

pragma solidity ^0.8.0;

contract Lending {

    struct Loan {

        uint256 amount;

        address payable borrower;

        address payable lender;

        uint256 interest;

        bool repaid;

    }

    Loan[] public loans;

    mapping(address => uint256[]) public borrowerLoans;

    mapping(address => uint256[]) public lenderLoans;

    event LoanRequested(uint256 loanId, address borrower, uint256 amount, uint256 interest);

    event LoanFunded(uint256 loanId, address lender);

    event LoanRepaid(uint256 loanId);

    function requestLoan(uint256 amount, uint256 interest) external {

        loans.push(Loan({

            amount: amount,

            borrower: payable(msg.sender),

            lender: payable(address(0)),

            interest: interest,

            repaid: false

        }));

        uint256 loanId = loans.length – 1;

        borrowerLoans[msg.sender].push(loanId);

        emit LoanRequested(loanId, msg.sender, amount, interest);

    }

    function fundLoan(uint256 loanId) external payable {

        Loan storage loan = loans[loanId];

        require(loan.lender == address(0), “Loan already funded”);

        require(msg.value == loan.amount, “Incorrect amount”);

        loan.lender = payable(msg.sender);

        lenderLoans[msg.sender].push(loanId);

        loan.borrower.transfer(loan.amount);

        emit LoanFunded(loanId, msg.sender);

    }

    function repayLoan(uint256 loanId) external payable {

        Loan storage loan = loans[loanId];

        require(msg.sender == loan.borrower, “Only borrower can repay”);

        require(!loan.repaid, “Loan already repaid”);

        uint256 repaymentAmount = loan.amount + loan.interest;

        require(msg.value == repaymentAmount, “Incorrect repayment amount”);

        loan.repaid = true;

        loan.lender.transfer(repaymentAmount);

        emit LoanRepaid(loanId);

    }

    function getLoanDetails(uint256 loanId) external view returns (uint256, address, address, uint256, bool) {

        Loan storage loan = loans[loanId];

        return (loan.amount, loan.borrower, loan.lender, loan.interest, loan.repaid);

    }

}

  • Compile the smart contract through the following bash script:

truffle compile

  • Create ‘2_deploy_contracts.js’ in ‘migrations’ folder using the following JavaScript code:

const Lending = artifacts.require(“Lending”);

module.exports = function (deployer) {

    deployer.deploy(Lending);

};

  1. Migrate the Smart Contract

You the following bash script to migrate the smart contract:

truffle migrate

  1. Test the Smart Contract
  • Create ‘Lending.test.js’ in ‘test’ folder by writing the JavaScript code:

const Lending = artifacts.require(“Lending”);

contract(“Lending”, accounts => {

    it(“should allow a user to request a loan”, async () => {

        const instance = await Lending.deployed();

        await instance.requestLoan(100, 10, { from: accounts[0] });

        const loan = await instance.loans.call(0);

        assert.equal(loan.amount, 100, “Loan amount should be 100”);

        assert.equal(loan.interest, 10, “Loan interest should be 10”);

        assert.equal(loan.borrower, accounts[0], “Borrower should be the account requesting the loan”);

        assert.equal(loan.lender, 0x0, “Lender should be empty initially”);

    });

    it(“should allow a user to fund a loan”, async () => {

        const instance = await Lending.deployed();

        await instance.fundLoan(0, { from: accounts[1], value: 100 });

        const loan = await instance.loans.call(0);

        assert.equal(loan.lender, accounts[1], “Lender should be the account funding the loan”);

    });

    it(“should allow a borrower to repay a loan”, async () => {

        const instance = await Lending.deployed();

        await instance.repayLoan(0, { from: accounts[0], value: 110 });

        const loan = await instance.loans.call(0);

        assert.equal(loan.repaid, true, “Loan should be marked as repaid”);

    });

});

  • Run the test by using the bash script:

truffle test

  1. Build the Frontend to Interact with Smart Contracts
  • Set up the React app by using the following bash script:

npx create-react-app lending-dapp

cd lending-dapp

  • You then need to install Web3.js through the following bash script:

npm install web3

  • Create App.js components by using the following JavaScript code:

import React, { useState, useEffect } from ‘react’;

import Web3 from ‘web3’;

import Lending from ‘./contracts/Lending.json’;

const App = () => {

    const [web3, setWeb3] = useState(null);

    const [account, setAccount] = useState(null);

    const [contract, setContract] = useState(null);

    const [loans, setLoans] = useState([]);

    const [loanAmount, setLoanAmount] = useState(“”);

    const [loanInterest, setLoanInterest] = useState(“”);

    useEffect(() => {

        const init = async () => {

            const web3 = new Web3(Web3.givenProvider || ‘http://localhost:7545’);

            const accounts = await web3.eth.requestAccounts();

            const networkId = await web3.eth.net.getId();

            const deployedNetwork = Lending.networks[networkId];

            const instance = new web3.eth.Contract(

                Lending.abi,

                deployedNetwork && deployedNetwork.address,

            );

            const loanCount = await instance.methods.loansCount().call();

            const loanDetails = [];

            for (let i = 0; i < loanCount; i++) {

                const loan = await instance.methods.getLoanDetails(i).call();

                loanDetails.push(loan);

            }

            setWeb3(web3);

            setAccount(accounts[0]);

            setContract(instance);

            setLoans(loanDetails);

        };

        init();

    }, []);

    const requestLoan = async () => {

        await contract.methods.requestLoan(loanAmount, loanInterest).send({ from: account });

        setLoanAmount(“”);

        setLoanInterest(“”);

    };

    const fundLoan = async (loanId, amount) => {

        await contract.methods.fundLoan(loanId).send({ from: account, value: amount });

    };

    const repayLoan = async (loanId, amount) => {

        await contract.methods.repayLoan(loanId).send({ from: account, value: amount });

    };

    if (!web3 || !contract) {

        return <div>Loading Web3, accounts, and contract…</div>;

    }

    return (

        <div className=”App”>

            <h1>P2P Lending DApp</h1>

            <h2>Request a Loan</h2>

            <input

                type=”number”

                value={loanAmount}

                onChange={e => setLoanAmount(e.target.value)}

                placeholder=”Loan Amount”

            />

            <input

                type=”number”

                value={loanInterest}

                onChange={e => setLoanInterest(e.target.value)}

                placeholder=”Loan Interest”

            />

            <button onClick={requestLoan}>Request Loan</button>

            <h2>Loans</h2>

            <ul>

                {loans.map((loan, index) => (

                    <li key={index}>

                        Amount: {loan[0]} – Interest: {loan[3]} – Borrower: {loan[1]} – Lender: {loan[2]} – Repaid: {loan[4].toString()}

                        {!loan[4] && (

                            <>

                                <button onClick={() => fundLoan(index, loan[0])}>Fund Loan</button>

                                <button onClick={() => repayLoan(index, parseInt(loan[0]) + parseInt(loan[3]))}>Repay Loan</button>

                            </>

                        )}

                    </li>

                ))}

            </ul>

        </div>

    );

};

export default App;

  • Connect with smart contract:

Make sure that your frontend is connected to the right network where your smart contract is deployed.

  1. Deploy the dApp

After testing the dApp, the final step is to deploy the smart contract to Ethereum Testnet or Mainnet. Leverage the following steps to do so:

  • Update ‘truffle-config.js’ with the suitable network configuration (e.g., Rinkeby, Mainnet). You can deploy using Truffle through the following bash code:

truffle migrate –network <network-name>

  1. Deploy the Frontend

You can then use a hosting service such as GitHub Pages, Netlify or Vercel to host your React app.

Conclusion

That’s a wrap! If you’re a mere beginner or intermediate and want to refer to a guide on how to build a dApp on Ethereum, this blog is the perfect guide to get started. You can follow the complete roadmap to create your dApp. All you need to do is set up a development environment for creating a smart contract and then test and deploy the dApp. 

If you’re an enterprise or business organization looking to build dApps, Deftsoft has a dedicated team of seasoned dApp developers who can build a professional dApp for your business venture. We’re here to help.

FAQs:

1. What is the first step in building a dApp on Ethereum?

The first step in building a dApp on Ethereum is to prepare your development environment. This includes installing Node.js, npm, Truffle, Ganache, and MetaMask. These tools are essential for running JavaScript applications, managing packages, simulating the blockchain environment locally, and managing Ethereum accounts.

2. Do I need to know any specific programming languages to create a dApp on Ethereum?

Yes, to create a dApp on Ethereum, you should be proficient in JavaScript and have a good understanding of front-end development. Additionally, you will need to learn Solidity, the programming language used for writing smart contracts on Ethereum.

3. What is the role of Gas fees in building a dApp on Ethereum?

Gas fees are required for deploying and running transactions on the Ethereum network. When you build a dApp on Ethereum, you need to pay these fees in Ether (ETH) to compensate for the computing power and storage space utilized on the network.

4. How do I test my smart contract during the dApp development process?

You can test your smart contract by writing tests using Mocha and Chai frameworks. These tests help ensure that your smart contract functions correctly before deploying it to the Ethereum network. Truffle provides built-in support for these testing frameworks.

5. What are the main benefits of developing a dApp on the Ethereum blockchain?

The main benefits of developing a dApp on the Ethereum blockchain include decentralization, transparency, and immutability. Decentralization ensures that the data is stored on multiple nodes rather than a central server. Transparency allows anyone to view the transactions recorded on the blockchain. Immutability means that once data is recorded on the blockchain, it cannot be altered or deleted.