A Beginner’s Guide to Mobile App Development in 2025

• By Amardeep Singh Sandhu

• 12th September 2024

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). 

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). 

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.