Mobile app development has been revolutionized through various development frameworks like React Native and Xamarin, to name a few. React Native, in particular, is the preferred cross-platform solution of many for iOS and Android app development. According to Statista, 42% of mobile developers use React Native.
Additionally, various brands like Tesla, Instagram, Walmart, Skype, Airbnb and many others rely on this framework.
If you’re an entrepreneur or a business owner who wants to develop a mobile app, then it is essential you understand what React Native is and how you can go about incorporating it into your development process. Let’s explore the basics of React Native and then focus on its benefits and flaws.
What is React Native?
React Native is a programming framework that uses JavaScript for mobile app development. It was introduced by Facebook’s software engineer, Jordan Walke. React Native apps operate just like apps created on Swift, Objective-C since they use the same UI blocks used in native Android and iOS apps.
Its main purpose is to simplify the development process and enhance the UX. Moreover, React Native speeds up the mobile development process while reducing expenses.
React Native is based on React, a JavaScript Library for creating user interfaces. It allows developers to simultaneously create both iOS and Android apps. Additionally, it facilitates your React Native app with additional platform features such as the user’s location, mobile camera. This is done by displaying JavaScript interfaces with platform API.
This mobile app development platform saves time since it allows developers to reuse the same code across various operating systems like iOS, Android, to name a few. Furthermore, this is an open-source framework that is prompted by highly experienced developers that do not hesitate to share their knowledge on ways to enhance the framework.
Pros of React Native for Mobile App Development
1. Large Community of Avid Developers:
Since React Native is an open-source framework therefore every code is available for everyone. Not only is it free in the massive React Native Community but the experts are keen to help if someone faces a technical issue linked to the development process. This platform is thus community-focused.
Further, a better code can be generated due to highly skilled developers. Platforms like Github and Discord connect you to various react-native community members worldwide. You can easily learn about a developer’s experience with React, work with several members, evaluate your code through essential feedback.
Similarly, Reactiflux is created by Facebook developers to generate lengthy conversations by developers on the solutions of React Native. Besides, you can get an instant response to your queries on Reactiflux.
2. Pre-built Libraries Simplify Development:
This is the most essential benefit of React Native. Due to its easy functionality, developers can instantly use the same code for both Android and iOS mobile app development.
According to research, nearly 90% of React Native code has to be repurposed for iOS and Android. React Native accelerates the development process due to an open-source library of pre-built features. You can easily deploy these codes and components.
Walmart uses React Native to instantly enhance app performance. It was beneficial for the developers since 96% of the code was effectively shared between Android and iOS.
3. App Performance is Enhanced:
Optimizing app performance has never been easy. React Native delivers near-native app benefits including enhanced productivity, instant development to name a few. You can revamp your app performance by incorporating native code in your app.
Native App development requires specific programming languages such as Swift, Objective-C for iOS app development,and Java for Android app development. However, React Native simplifies this process since it doesn’t require additional programming languages and the same code can be utilized in both Android and iOS app development.
Moreover, React Native apps use Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) while native apps use Central Processing Unit (CPU) thus react apps are faster as opposed to cross-platform apps.
4. Cross-platform Coding Enables Faster Development:
Since its coding is cross-platform, React Native is suited for both iOS and Android mobile app development. Not only is it time-saving but it is also cost-effective because there’s no need to pay extra for creating separate apps. If you are an entrepreneur with budget constraints, this framework will reduce your cost in half. In addition, maintenance on both apps can be done simultaneously.
5. React Native Allows for a More Streamlined UI:
React Native lays a huge emphasis on mobile UI. Further, user interfaces developed on this framework run smoothly, and are proven to be more receptive with reduced load time.
6. Quick Updates:
Launching app updates was a time-taking task that required developers to develop apps for each OS separately. However, this aspect of the development process has been streamlined through React Native.
Over the Air (OTA) updates have instantly enhanced improvements and maintenance of the app in the mobile development industry. Long gone are the days where your app had to be manually updated and approved via app stores like Android and Apple. React Native provides quick updates, thus streamlining the development process.
7. Intuitive Modular Architecture:
React Native also uses Modular programming, a software design method that isolates a program’s functionality into various exchangeable blocks known as modules. This technique provides flexibility to the developers since they can look into one another’s projects and easily generate updates.
Also, this approach assists developers by providing quick application updates. Modules that worked effectively for both mobile and web APIs can be reused.
Cons of Reactive Native for Mobile App Development:
1. Not Ideal for Apps with a Complicated UI:
React Native may not be an ideal choice for apps that need various high-end animations, screen transitions, or complex motions.
Although this framework has a Gesture Responder System that controls the gestures, it is not as efficient as expected. Developers face issues since iOS and Android’s touch systems are contrasting so a single API can not be used.
2. Memory Leaks Can Hurt Performance:
Memory leakage usually occurs when a computer program erroneously manages memory allocations. Moreover, it may occur if an item stored in memory is inaccessible by the running code. These leaks occur in React Native, thus affecting the overall app performance.
3. You May Still Require a Native Developer:
At times, it may be essential to integrate a native block into your React code, thus requiring the services of a native developer. Not only does this complicate the development process, but may also cause collaboration issues.
4. It Can Be Difficult to Solve Device-related Issues:
Analysis with React Native is complicated since non-native coding makes it inconvenient to solve device-related problems. Conversely, a native app’s issues can be easily resolved.
Final Verdict:
React Native is one of the most popular and sought-after choices for mobile app development. However, like all other frameworks, it too has its unique set of pros and cons. In our experience though, its benefits definitely outweigh its drawbacks, and we believe it would be a great choice for your projects as well.
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