App Development: Android or iOS?

Mobile App Development
Whether you have a business requiring mobile app, or is a developer yourself, there is always one question that comes into consideration... Should I start with Android or iOS?
As mobile app development is growing in a really fast pace, it doesn't mean that you have to rush and try to simultaneously build app for both platforms. In fact, it is often wiser to choose one to start from. It is recommended to do so because in the mobile app development process, a lot of learning and fixing are involved, which makes it simpler to achieve your desired app experience on one platform first. Now that we agree on that point, we can proceed to determining whether you should start on which platform.

Choosing Between Android or iOS
Well, it is not easy to choose without any ground. Nor it is a wise solution to simply toss a coin and see what you get. Therefore, here are list of some factors that you might want to consider:

• Target market: Android holds the largest global market share, with substantially more users in Asia and the majority of developing countries. So, if you are targeting that demographic, then android app development will be more suitable. On the other hand, while iOS have less user, they tend to have higher income and education, as well as higher engagement. It comes down to whether you aim for breadth or depth.
• Purpose: Will there be in app purchase or direct charge for your app? If that is the case, then it might be preferable to start on iOS app development. Data from various studies shows that iOS users are more likely to make in-app purchase and generate more revenue than Android. But it doesn't mean that you should scratch Android off your list. In fact, if you want more control over the hardware and software of your app, Android might be better as it allows more freedom in elements customization
• Cost: Generally speaking, the costs of building app for Android and iOS are similar. However, difference in the cost will occur when you need to design for more number of devices that use Android. At the same time, however, it also means that you can reach wider audience.

Conclusively, choosing a platform to develop your first mobile app depends a lot on the purpose and goal you want to achieve. However, due to demographics, cost, and engagement, many developers usually start with the iOS platform first. One of the most prominent example for this case is Instagram, who waited for 2 years before launching its app on Android.

Hope this helps!