Hybrid App Development: All You Need to Know – The Ultimate Guide

What is a Hybrid Mobile App?

In today’s age, mobile apps have become part and parcel of our everyday lives. From booking cabs to finding potential romantic partners and keeping a check on one’s diet and health, the scope of mobile apps is magnanimous, to say the least.

When we talk about mobile app development, the first decision revolves around its methodology – whether the app will be a native app, web app, or hybrid app. Each variant has its pros and cons. However, when versatility, cost-efficiency, and cross-platform compatibility are the benchmarks, hybrid apps truly stand out. In simple words, we can understand hybrid apps as mobile apps that can be deployed across different platforms, including iOS, Android, or Windows. Thus, owing to code reusability, the developers are now able to save time and fasten the time to market of a specific app. According to recent surveys, 60 percent of businesses are more likely to use hybrid apps.

How Do Hybrid Apps Work?

A hybrid app is essentially like any other web app, but its working is a tad bit different. Hybrid apps have a lightweight native app ‘container’ that enables them to leverage specific native platform features and device hardware, such as a camera, calendar, push notifications, and more, which a simple web application cannot access.

Moreover, just like web applications, hybrid apps are built with commonly used front-end development technologies and languages, such as JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS, thereby rendering them the coveted cross-platform feature. Lastly, hybrid apps are available in app stores, can access hardware on your phone, and can be installed on a mobile device, akin to a native app.

What is Hybrid Mobile App Development?

The hybrid mobile app development methodology revolves around building an app with a single project using a framework that can target all the required platforms – Android, iOS, Windows, and more. The process entails creating a single code for the app that can be reused on all platforms.

Barring a few selected aspects of the app, including the UI that users expect to be tailored to their platform of choice, hybrid app development involves writing the code once, and then reusing it for any other target platform. Thus, the key distinguishing factors of hybrid app development are ease of making, and reusability of source code, which facilitate the expansion of a business’s reach.

Key Benefits of Hybrid Mobile Apps

As hybrid mobile apps lie in a comfortable middle ground between native apps and web apps, they share some properties of both.  Thus, when it comes to advantages, hybrid apps offer some unique ones. What are they? Let us find out!

• Hybrid apps work on different platforms
• They are easier and faster to implement
• Hybrid apps are cost-efficient as the same code can be used for different platforms
• It is easier to launch patches and updates on hybrid mobile apps
• They allow both offline and online workability
• The limitations of App Store formalities also mitigate with hybrid apps, as it is not necessary to submit the new version of the modifications that have not touched the native code

Related Blog: Top 10 Benefits of Hybrid App Development That You Need to Know

Hybrid Mobile App Development Process

The process of developing a hybrid app is subjective and varies on an individual basis. However, some steps, like the ones mentioned above, are constant. What are they? Read below to find out!

1. Hybrid Mobile App Development: Planning and Analysis

The first stage of developing a hybrid mobile app is planning and analysis. You have to confirm if going ‘hybrid’ is the right solution and choice for your project. After you are sure, it is time to determine which features to include in the app. Besides, you also need to select the optimal tech stacks for building the hybrid app. At this phase, the pertinent requirement is to have a generic roadmap of the entire journey.

2. Hybrid Mobile App Development: Design

The second stage of app development includes ‘design.’ It is an incredibly critical phase in any Software development Life Cycle (SDLC). In this stage, software architects design a comprehensive product architecture premised on your inputs and after analyzing the business requirements. The key is to ensure that the UI/UX design of the app is intuitive, user-friendly, engaging, and offers a seamless experience.

3. Hybrid Mobile App Development: Development

After the design process is sorted, the next step is to start building the hybrid mobile app using frameworks such as React Native, Flutter, or Ionic as per the project requirement. Thus, the key is to create a high-performing, robust, and secure back end. We develop the necessary UI as well as the backend components that includes setting up databases, creating APIs, integrating third-party services, and also implementing any server-side logic required by the application.

4. Hybrid Mobile App Development: Backend Integration

Backend integration is one of the most crucial parts of the app development cycle, as it determines the scalability of your hybrid mobile application in the future.  This stage of hybrid app development entails creating databases and server-side objects that are responsible for the app’s performance. At this stage, the key is to choose the appropriate programming language and begin coding the app. Besides, you also have to choose additional database engines and a hosting environment.

5. Hybrid Mobile App Development: Testing and Debugging

After the code is written, the next step in hybrid mobile app development is for the developers to test the code and ensure that the app performs as it was planned in the initial stage. Thus, it is imperative to test both the front and back-end and fix any underlying bugs and glitches.

6. Hybrid Mobile App Development: Deployment and Distribution

After the hybrid app has been debugged and tested, it is time for the deployment stage to take wing. During deployment, you need to go through different distribution models, depending upon the platform you are developing for. The mobile app deployment strategy is pretty simple and includes an application submission to Apple’s App Store or Google’s Play Store for private distribution.

Both stores mandate the filling out of several forms and submission of the hybrid app for review. Moreover, it is noteworthy to mention that the Apple App Store is usually deemed much stricter with the application it permits onto its marketplace.

7. Hybrid Mobile App Development: Maintenance and Updates

After the deployment and distribution stage has been wrapped, the last step includes maintenance and updates. The hybrid app you made requires fixing bugs and regular updations. Such moves are crucial to facilitate and ensure top-tier user experience and the seamless addition of new features.

Development Languages Used in Hybrid Mobile Apps

Hybrid apps use and support an array of programming languages, and the most popular ones include

• HTML5
• JavaScript
• C#
• Dart
• CSS

Best Frameworks for Hybrid Mobile App Development

As the name suggests, Hybrid app frameworks are versatile, as the developer has to simply write the code once and the mobile application will run on both Android and iOS platforms with no extra effort. Moreover, it can also be reused for Progressive web applications and even desktops, by simply making some minor tweaks.

In 2023, these frameworks have been recognized as some of the top choices for hybrid mobile app development

• React Native
• Ionic
• Xamarin
• Flutter
• Kendo UI
• Onsen UI
• jQuery
• Framework7 and more

Best Practices for Hybrid Mobile App Development

Hybrid apps are versatile, cost-efficient, quick to market, and easy to make. It has some phenomenal benefits, which make it a fan favorite of developers and businesses alike. However, hybrid apps also come with their share of pitfalls.

For instance, developers might have to compromise on rich features and graphics to achieve smooth performance, and so forth. Therefore, to ensure that the hybrid app development process is optimal, fine, and as good as native apps, following some good practices might help.

• Keep the code compact
• Keep the UI lightweight
• Use local caching to cut down network access
• Avoid inline styles
• Use external libraries wisely
• Consider end-to-end automation testing

How Much Does Hybrid Mobile App Development Cost?

The cost for hybrid mobile app development can vary significantly depending on several factors like include the complexity of the app, design intricacy, desired features, targeted platforms, development team’s expertise, and geographic location. However, as a rough estimate, simple to moderately complex hybrid apps can range anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000. More complex apps with advanced features and intricate designs can exceed $100,000 and go up to several hundred thousand dollars. It’s important to note that these figures can vary based on specific project requirements. Obtaining detailed estimates from a trusted hybrid mobile app development company like BuzzyBrains is the best way to get an accurate price range for your unique project.

Native Vs Hybrid Vs Web Apps: Comparison

Now that we have comprehensively touched upon the nitty-gritty of hybrid mobile apps, let us gauge some differences among hybrid, web, and native apps in a tabular format.

Parameters	Native App Development	Hybrid App Development	Web App Development
Development Language	Java, Swift, Objective C	A combination of languages, such as HTML5, JavaScript, and more.	HTML5
Usage	Users have to install the app on the device of their choice	Users have to install the app on the device of their choice	Users can access the app directly from the browser
Development Speed	Fastest time to market	Faster time to market	Slower time to market
Access to Device Features	One-step access with offline features	One-step access with offline features	Limited by browser and network connectivity
Development Cost	Expensive	Comparatively Cost-efficient	Most Cost-efficient
Performance	Fastest and can be optimized as per the device	Faster, but may consume more battery power	Slower and less responsive
Native Look and Feel	Accessible	Accessible	Not Accessible
Examples	WhatsApp, Facebook, and Spotify	Gmail, Instagram, Twitter	WordPress, Google Doc, MS Office

Best Examples of Hybrid Apps

Hybrid apps are loved equally by businesses and developers. Some of the most successful examples of hybrid mobile app development include

• Instagram
• Twitter
• UberEATS
• Alibaba
• Gmail and more

How to Choose a Hybrid Mobile App Development?

While choosing hybrid mobile app development, you should look for qualities like performance, scalability, security, and cost-efficiency. For instance, the cost of developing the mobile application via a specific framework should be under your budget. Likewise, the time to market the application should also be feasible. Some of the key pointers to keep in mind are –

• Platform support
• Cost efficiency
• Speed
• Security
• After launch updates

Emerging Technologies and Trends In Hybrid App Development

Let us now wrap up the article by looking at some emerging trends and technologies within hybrid app development. Among the most awaited revolutions within mobile app development has to be the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT). The IoT describes the growing network of devices connected to the Internet for providing everyday convenience and automated control.

Smart home technology is an apt example of the rise of IoT in mobile app development. Likewise, the other emerging technologies we can expect to see in hybrid mobile development are – mobile commerce, 5G technology, mobile wallets, and likewise.

FAQs about Hybrid Mobile App Development

Q1. What is the most suitable programming language for hybrid app development?

Ans. The most suitable programming language for hybrid app development is JavaScript in combination with others like HTML5 and CSS.

Q2. How long does it typically take to develop a hybrid app?

Ans. The development duration of a hybrid app varies based on several factors such as complexity of business logic, integrations, level of intricacy, and features. Simple apps can take 2 to 4 months, moderately complex ones around 4 to 6 months, while highly complex apps may require 6 to 12 months or more. These estimates are approximate, and actual timelines are determined during project planning. Hybrid app development offers time savings compared to multiple native apps.

For more detailed information, talk to our Hybrid mobile app experts today and the roadmap for your next-gen application.

Q3. What are the steps involved in developing a hybrid mobile app?

Ans. Some of the steps involved in hybrid mobile app development include planning and analysis, designing, development, backend integration, deployment, distribution, and maintenance.

Q4. Is it possible to use Angular for hybrid app development?

Yes, it is possible to use Angular for hybrid app development. However, Angular has to be used in combination with other languages like Native Script. For instance, combining Angular with Ionic is a great way to develop classy and high-performing hybrid apps with a near-native feel.

Q5. Which framework would be recommended for hybrid app development?

Ans. Some of the best frameworks for hybrid app development are Flutter, React Native & Ionic.

Conclusion

So, there we have it, a comprehensive overview of hybrid app development. A recent survey by the Ionic Developers Society shows that the inclination toward exclusively native tools has decreased by almost 700 percent. Besides, 32.7 percent of developers are ready to completely abandon native development in favor of hybrid apps.

Such numbers are a testament to the magnanimity and scope of hybrid app development. With benefits like faster time to market, cost-efficiency, and code reusability, hybrid app development truly stands out as a boon for both developers and businesses.

Enquire Now for Expert Hybrid App Development Services

For the best hybrid app development services, look no further than BuzzyBrains. We can help revolutionize and transform your enterprise by designing the best-in-class hybrid app with a near-native feel. Our company is equipped with an experienced, empathetic, and highly committed team, which is ready to go the extra mile to offer the best solutions for your venture.

We are dedicated to offering high-class software solutions to startups and SMBs using disruptive technologies. From strategic consultancy to the complete backend implementation and enablement of migration and cloud services, consider us the one-stop solution for all your technological needs. So, get in touch with us to build the best hybrid app for your business.