Android devices have revolutionized the mobile market, overtaking iOS devices by the millions. Now, Android apps are highly in demand by businesses and their customers. Therefore, it’s no longer a question of whether to develop for Apple or Android – it’s either both, or in many cases, Android alone. Though Android has its own developer guidelines, there are many tips that we’ve learned along the way through our development of Android apps. Here are a couple of the most important:
- Determine what the need is for the app. Don’t just develop an app for the sake of having one – it has to meet a need. If you aren’t sure what your customer’s want in an app, do a survey and find out.
- Make sure your app is scalable. Most apps will have a long shelf life, as they should. After all, an app is a big investment, so when launching a 1st version, keep in mind what you might like to have in versions 2 and 3. Planning ahead from the get go will save you time and money down the road.
- Use responsive design. With so many Android devices on the market, you must consider how your app will appear on the majority of them. Start building with the smallest device in mind, then scale up for the best user experience.
- Be mindful of prime real estate. Just as with a website, where you want to make sure that the most important information is above the fold, make sure that mobile users can get the most out of the smaller screen size. Therefore, balance your branding with your nav and make sure that the user interface is #1.
- Use icons if you can. Icons are a nice clean way to provide quick links to info like email, sharing, trash and bookmark. Using simple icons is best – don’t over design or try to incorporate too much color.
- Don’t underestimate the back button. User controls are an app are paramount. Run through different user scenarios and test click paths to make sure users can just as easily navigate back as they can forward.
To find out more information on an Android app for your business, contact our award-winning Android app team today at 888-309-3292.
