Two basic approaches
Native development uses each platform's own language: Swift for iOS and Kotlin for Android. The result is two separate apps with two separate codebases. You get access to each platform's new features on day one, and performance is as good as it gets.
Cross-platform development produces apps for both platforms from a single codebase. Today the most common tools in business projects are Flutter and React Native. Most of the code is shared, and small platform-specific differences are handled separately.
Comparison
| Topic | Native | Cross-platform |
|---|---|---|
| Codebase | Two separate | One shared |
| Development time | Longer | Shorter |
| Maintenance | Twice, by two teams | In one place |
| Performance | Highest | Sufficient for business apps |
| Access to device features | Direct, from day one | Mostly ready-made, some need extra development |
| Same behavior on both platforms | Must be achieved separately | Built in |
Which one, and when?
Most business apps are made up of forms, lists, photos, maps, notifications and a server connection. For apps like these, cross-platform noticeably reduces both development time and the maintenance burden. For example, for a mechanical contractor's field team, an app with work orders, photo reports and customer signatures is best shipped to both platforms from a single codebase.
We recommend native when:
- The app will work heavily with Bluetooth devices, special hardware or sensors
- There is heavy graphics work, video processing or augmented reality
- Using a platform's new features on release day is critical to the business
- An in-house team that already knows native development will take over maintenance
Checklist before you decide
- Who will use the app, and on which phones? (Company devices or personal phones?)
- Does it need to work without an internet connection?
- Do you need the camera, location, barcode scanning, NFC or Bluetooth?
- Which systems will the app exchange data with?
- Who will maintain it after launch?
- Will it be public in the stores, or only for specific users?
That last question matters. If your users are only your employees or dealers, it is also possible to go with a PWA and skip the stores altogether. We explain that option on the PWA or mobile app page.
The back end matters as much as the app
The mobile app is usually the visible face; the real work happens on the server side — the layer where data is stored, access is authorized and the ERP is contacted. We build that layer within the same project, drawing on our custom software and integration experience. That way there is no gap in responsibility between the app, the admin panel and your business systems.
Frequently asked questions
Does a cross-platform app feel different to users?
When it is designed well, users can't tell the difference. We also make sure it follows each platform's familiar behaviors, such as the back button and menus.
Can we start with just one platform?
Yes. If most of your users are on one platform, you can start there. If you chose cross-platform, the second platform can be added later with far less effort.
Is tablet support a separate project?
The same app can be adapted for tablets; the screen layout is planned during the design phase.
To talk about your project, take a look at our mobile app service, call +90 850 432 55 13 or write to us through the contact page.