Finding the perfect Flutter app development company is difficult nowadays, especially since this open-source UI software is relatively new. Luckily, there are Flutter app development companies in the United States you can rely on, and in today’s post, we are reviewing all of them in detail.

The journey is often as important as the destination…

This proverb perfectly captures your search for a top-notch Flutter app development firm.

In today’s world, where technology evolves faster than our morning coffee cools down, staying ahead means choosing not just any developers – but THE best ones out there! So how do you spot them?

The Rise of Flutter in App Development

Companies are increasingly embracing Flutter when it comes to creating superior apps. This open-source UI software development kit is making waves in the tech world.

Brought into existence by Google, Flutter offers various benefits that have contributed significantly to its rising popularity. It’s not just hype; there are solid reasons why developers love this toolkit so much.

Faster Code Writing

With Flutter, app development becomes smoother and quicker thanks to the hot reload functionality. Changes made in the code can be seen immediately without losing the current application state.

This allows for fast iterations, which lets you add features, fix bugs, or experiment without delay. But remember: with great power comes great responsibility.

Cross-Platform Performance

Creating separate apps for iOS and Android can eat up time and resources like Pac-Man on a power pellet spree. That’s where Flutter steps in with its cross-platform capabilities.

According to Statista, 42% of worldwide mobile app developers use cross-platform technologies—and many turn specifically towards Flutter because it maintains consistent design across multiple platforms while saving precious hours of work.

Easier Testing Process

A single codebase also means easier testing. With only one version of your app needing checking rather than two, QA specialists get their workload cut down drastically—making them happier than kids at a candy store.

High-Performing Apps

Flutter apps work smoothly and fast, much like Usain Bolt on the running track. This high performance is due to Flutter’s ability to communicate directly with the native code without any intermediate.

The result? An app that feels natural on virtually any platform while keeping its speed. No wonder more companies are turning towards Flutter for their development needs.

Top 15 Flutter App Development Companies in USA

Flutter, a robust open-source framework by Google, is shaping the future of mobile and web apps. It offers quick coding, versatile UI, and easy cross-platform development. But to fully leverage these benefits, you need a skilled Flutter developer.

The US hosts many top-notch companies that specialize in this platform. So, let’s take a closer look at some of them:

1. TechAhead

Regarding Flutter development, TechAhead is a name that rings loud and clear. They’ve been in the game for years, building robust apps with this powerful framework.

A Proven Track Record in Flutter Development

TechAhead has earned its reputation through the consistent delivery of top-notch applications. Their team possesses deep technical expertise and an understanding of what businesses need from their cloud computing and mobile solutions.

Their portfolio speaks volumes about their capabilities. It’s packed with innovative apps developed using Flutter, each tailored to meet unique client needs and industry standards.

Dedicated Team and Robust Process

You don’t just get developers to create apps when you work with TechAhead; you get partners committed to your project’s success. From initial consultation until app launch (and beyond), they’re there every step of the way.

This level of commitment is backed by a solid process that includes detailed planning sessions, iterative development phases allowing frequent feedback loops, and thorough testing before deployment – all ensuring that the final product aligns perfectly with business objectives while offering users an exceptional experience.

Client-Centric Approach

If one thing stands out about TechAhead’s approach towards flutter app development – it would be their unwavering focus on clients’ requirements. Whether startups or Fortune 500 companies- everyone gets personalized attention here.

2. TwinSun

TwinSun is a Flutter development company known for its expertise in crafting cross-platform mobile applications. With a skilled team of Flutter developers, they have successfully delivered a range of scalable mobile apps offering a native-like experience on iOS and Android.

The TwinSun Flutter app development services start at $150 per hour. Their web development portfolio showcases their ability to create visually appealing and responsive apps, making them a solid choice for businesses seeking a versatile and efficient mobile digital product development solution.

3. Zetaton

Zetaton is an experienced Flutter development company specializing in building high-quality mobile apps. Their team of developers has a firm grasp of Flutter’s capabilities, enabling them to create high-quality, performance-driven apps.

Zetaton has a track record of delivering projects across various industries, showcasing their adaptability and proficiency in leveraging Flutter’s advantages for cross-platform development. Zetaton is based in Milwaukee and is rated the best Flutter app development company by many local clients. Their agile Flutter and app developers excel in creating high-performing iOS and Android apps.

4. Red Hawk Technologies

Red Hawk Technologies is a Flutter development company committed to creating innovative, user-centric applications. They have a skilled team of Flutter developers who are well-versed in delivering robust and feature-rich apps.

This web app development company’s experience spans various domains, making it a versatile choice for businesses looking to harness the power of Flutter for their mobile app needs and hybrid apps. However, Flutter app development is their true focus.

5. WP Pals

WP Pals is a Flutter development company that stands out for its ability to deliver user-friendly and visually appealing Flutter app solutions. With their Flutter expertise, they offer businesses the advantage of cross-platform development while maintaining a high standard of performance and aesthetics.

WP Pals excels in mobile and web development across diverse industries as true web development specialists. This makes them a reliable choice for companies seeking efficient and cost-effective Flutter solutions, especially in Texas, their main market.

6. MojoTech

MojoTech is a well-established Flutter development company with a strong track record of delivering top-notch mobile applications. They excel in creating custom, cross-platform apps that prioritize user experience and performance.

For many, MojoTech is known as the top Flutter app development firm in Providence, RI. Their extensive experience and client portfolio highlight their capability to build scalable and feature-rich Flutter app solutions tailored to various business needs.

7. UpTop

UpTop is a Flutter development company specializing in crafting mobile apps that combine functionality and design excellence. Their team of Flutter developers has a deep understanding of the framework, allowing them to create high-quality cross-platform apps.

Like many other Flutter app development companies, UpTop’s portfolio reflects its ability to deliver user-friendly and visually appealing mobile software solutions for diverse industries. Many reviews clearly state this is a leading software development company for custom development services.

8. Shockoe

Shockoe is a reputable Flutter development company based in Richmond, VA, known for its proficiency in creating innovative and enterprise-grade mobile applications. Their experienced team of Flutter developers is well-versed in utilizing the framework’s capabilities to build scalable and feature-rich apps.

This is one of the Flutter app development companies experienced working with Fortune 500 companies, proving their ability to deliver high-impact app development services tailored to complex business requirements.

9. Iron Forge Development

Iron Forge Development is a Flutter development company that excels in building cross-platform mobile applications for startups and enterprises alike. Their skilled developers leverage Flutter’s capabilities to create efficient, cost-effective development services.

The average project cost at Iron Forge Development ranges around $10,000. The software development company has vast expertise in delivering robust and scalable Flutter apps. This has helped them position themselves as top Flutter app developers in Wisconsin.

10. Inventive Works

Inventive Works is a Flutter development company known for its creative approach to mobile app development. They specialize in creating visually appealing and user-friendly cross-platform applications.

If you are looking for a professional to create cross-platform apps for you, Inventive Works’ portfolio can give you proof of quality. Upon seeing it, you will know what to expect from your app development journey and their ability to deliver stunning Flutter and mobile technology experiences for businesses across various industries.

11. Singlemind

Singlemind is a Flutter development company that delivers customized and efficient mobile applications. Their team of Flutter developers has experience creating cross-platform apps that prioritize performance and user experience. Singlemind’s track record of successful projects showcases its ability to tailor Flutter solutions to meet diverse business needs.

This Oregon-based Flutter app development company is easy to work with and great when you need custom software development. They have designed numerous scalable mobile and web apps perfectly tailored to their client’s needs.

12. 7L International

7L International is a Flutter development company known for its expertise in building scalable and reliable mobile applications. Their team of Flutter developers leverages the framework’s advantages to deliver cross-platform apps that meet high-performance standards. 7L International’s experience spans various industries, making it a valuable partner for businesses seeking cost-effective and versatile Flutter development services.

13. Rapptr Labs

Rapptr Labs is a web and mobile app development company that delivers innovative and user-centric mobile applications in a sea of Flutter development companies. Their experienced team of Flutter developers excels in creating cross-platform apps, prioritizing functionality and design excellence. Rapptr Labs’ diverse portfolio showcases its ability to tailor Flutter solutions to meet the unique requirements of different industries.

With Rapptr, you are getting a serious partner for your mobile app development project. They also do web and cross-platform app development, making them a great choice and a fantastic company to work with in New York.

14. Stoke Ventures

Stoke Ventures is a Flutter development company known for its expertise in building mobile applications that blend cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design. Their team of skilled Flutter developers creates cross-platform apps that offer a seamless and visually appealing user experience.

Contract manufacturing is another segment Stoke Ventures can help you with. Their experience across various domains makes them a trusted partner for businesses leveraging Flutter for their mobile app development needs. This is a clear choice for a top Flutter app development company in Raleigh, NC.

15. Ekkel AI

Ekkel AI is a Flutter development company that utilizes Flutter’s capabilities to create efficient and forward-thinking mobile applications. Their team of Flutter developers excels in delivering cross-platform apps that prioritize performance and user engagement.

If you need cross-platform app development in Newark, Ekkel AI should be on your list. The software development firm’s portfolio showcases its ability to provide innovative and cost-effective Flutter development services for businesses across diverse industries.

Factors to Consider When Hiring Flutter App Developers

Choosing the right Flutter development company is crucial for your project’s success. Selecting the appropriate Flutter development business can be difficult, yet understanding what to think about can help simplify it.

• Technical expertise: The first thing you should consider when hiring a Flutter development company is their technical expertise. Make sure they have skilled developers who understand Dart, the programming language used in Flutter. Check if they’ve worked on similar projects before and ask them about their experience with various tools and technologies associated with Flutter.
• Good communication: A successful app development process requires clear communication between you and your chosen company. Good communication skills are essential, as misunderstandings could lead to costly delays or subpar results.
• Methodology: You also need to assess how each prospective developer manages projects. Some use agile methodologies, others have project managers, while others might prefer waterfall techniques; both have advantages depending on your project’s needs. This guide will help you understand more about these approaches.
• Cost: The cost of hiring a Flutter app developer varies widely based on factors like geographical location, complexity of work involved, etc., so compare prices among different Flutter app development companies without compromising quality. Keep in mind that cheap doesn’t always mean good value. An inexpensive provider may cost more long-term because poor-quality work often leads to late revision fixes.
• Portfolio: Lastly, always ask to see the company’s portfolio. This will give you an idea of their design aesthetics and functionality skills. Look at their previous projects, specifically those related to Flutter development.

Most importantly, select a firm that aligns with your project and team’s needs. They should understand your vision and exhibit enthusiasm in making it a reality.

How to Get Started with Your Flutter Project

Firing up a new project can be daunting, especially when it’s your first time dealing with Flutter. Fear not. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide that will get you from zero to hero.

#1 – Pick the Right Development Company

Your first step is finding a suitable Flutter development company. Don’t just pick any company; choose one with proven experience and glowing reviews. Remember, picking the right team is essential to bringing your concept into reality – so take care in selecting the best option.

TechAhead, based in Los Angeles and Noida, stands out among its peers due to its rich experience building top-notch Flutter apps. They’ve got the skills needed for your project.

#2 – Plan Out Your Project

Once you have found your dream team of developers at TechAhead or another reputable firm, start mapping out what you want from your app. Make lists of essential features and those ‘nice-to-have’ extras if the budget allows.

A well-thought-out plan helps prevent misunderstandings between yourself and the development team later on. Plus, it makes tracking progress more manageable as work gets underway.

#3 – Dive Into Design Phase

This phase includes creating wireframes or mockups of each screen within your application using tools like Sketch or Figma – both excellent choices for stunning UI/UX designs.

Note: User-friendly design isn’t just about aesthetics – consider how users interact with various elements, too

As the project progresses, review updates from your development team regularly. Offer feedback where necessary – remember, it’s a collaborative process.

Test Your Application Thoroughly

Running thorough tests is crucial before you let your app loose on the world. Before releasing the application, check for any glitches or problems that could spoil the user experience – after all, people don’t like apps that do not perform as anticipated.

FAQs about the Top 15 Flutter Mobile App Development Companies

What is the Flutter app development company in the United States?

The “best” Flutter app dev shop varies based on needs, but top picks include TechAhead, Stoke Ventures, and Singlemind.

Is Flutter in demand in the United States?

Absolutely. With its fast coding speed and cross-platform compatibility, US companies increasingly opt for Flutter.

How do I choose the best Flutter app development company?

You’ll want to look at their technical prowess with Dart language (used by Flutter), past projects they’ve handled, and how they communicate.

Conclusion

Choosing the right team isn’t easy…

But with this guide, we’ve navigated through the top 15 Flutter app development companies in the USA together.

We discovered why Flutter is a rising star in app development. We dug into what makes the leaders stand out.

Remember, it’s crucial to consider factors like technical expertise, communication skills, project management style, and cost when hiring a company for your next project.

The future of Flutter looks promising indeed! And now you’re armed with knowledge on how to kickstart your app venture successfully.

Featured Image Credit: ThisIsEngineering; Pexels; Thank you!

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Apple has released the iOS 17.0.3 update to address “an issue that may cause iPhone to run warmer than expected,” among other bug fixes. This move is particularly significant for iPhone 15 and 15 Pro users who have been vocal about their devices overheating. The update also includes enhancements to improve the security and overall stability of iPhones running iOS 17.

iPhone 15 overheating is a hot issue

Ever since the iPhone 15 series hit the market, social media platforms have been abuzz with users discussing the overheating issue. Many pinpointed specific third-party applications, such as Instagram and Uber, as triggers for the excessive warmth.

Apple’s acknowledgment of the problem was a relief to many, but users were eagerly awaiting a tangible solution. With the release of iOS 17.0.3, it seems the tech giant is delivering on its promise.

The release of iOS 17.0.3 is part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to refine its latest operating system. Since the introduction of iOS 17, the tech giant has been actively working on incorporating user feedback as well as working with third-party developers to rectify reported glitches.

For those still on the fence about upgrading to iOS 17, the operating system introduces a slew of new features and improvements. However, the spotlight remains on ensuring that flagship devices like the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro operate without hitches.

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Google has announced the release of Android 14, the latest iteration of its mobile operating system. This new version promises to elevate the user experience with a slew of innovative features and improvements.

The previous version, Android 13, garnered attention with its Spatial Audio, messaging app streaming, and cross-device copy/paste capabilities. It’s worth noting that some features, originally planned for Android 14, made an early debut in Android 13 as updates, enhancing multitasking and support for foldable screens.

A step up in personalization and image quality

Android has consistently championed user personalization, and the new release amplifies this ethos. Android 14 enables users to effortlessly toggle wallpapers and designate custom shortcuts on their lock screens. A standout feature is the generative AI wallpapers, debuting on the Pixel 8/8 Pro, which employs AI to generate distinctive backgrounds. For users leaning toward a subdued design, Android 14 introduces a refined monochromatic theme.

Building on the HDR video features of its predecessor, Android 14 introduces Ultra HDR for photos. This update offers improved color and contrast in images, optimized for viewing on HDR-compatible screens.

Health, data security, and user control

With Health Connect, Android 14 centralizes health and fitness metrics, granting users a comprehensive view and control of their data, securely encrypted on the device. The feature integrates with popular health platforms like Oura, Peloton, and Whoop.

In a bid to bolster transparency, Android 14’s data-sharing updates keep users informed about apps accessing and potentially sharing their data, such as location information. Furthermore, Android 14 has fortified PIN security by promoting six-digit PINs and eliminating the need to press ‘enter’ after input.

Enhanced accessibility

Catering to the diverse needs of its user base, Android 14 introduces features tailored for low-vision and hard-of-hearing individuals. The revamped magnifier tool provides fluid zoom controls, while adjustable font sizes optimize on-screen readability.

Hearing accessibility also received a boost. The new OS simplifies interactions with hearing aids and introduces “Flash notifications,” allowing users to receive visual alerts for incoming notifications.

Supported devices

Android 14 is available starting today, Oct. 4, for Pixel devices, specifically from the Pixel 4a (5G) onward and including Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. Google stated that supported, non-Pixel devices can expect the update “later this year.”

The post Android 14 debuts: What’s new in Google’s latest mobile OS update? appeared first on ReadWrite.

Apple reportedly plans to increase production in India to around $40 billion — a more than five-fold increase from its current $7 billion — in the next four to five years.

The news — which ReadWrite has yet to verify independently — originates from news agency PTI, which cited government sources that said: “Apple has plans to increase production in India to over $40 billion in the next 4-5 years. It has crossed $7 billion in the last fiscal.”

“They don’t have any plans to participate in IT hardware PLI,” the officer added — implying the iPhone creator has no plans to make iPads or Macbooks in India. “They may come at a later stage but as of now their focus is to scale up existing production levels.”

However, The Cupertino-based firm reportedly plans to manufacture Airpods in India from next year.

Apple outpaces Samsung in smartphone exports from India

Apple is the largest exporter of mobile phones from India — where it, for the first time, made its new made-in-India iPhones available on launch day earlier this month. The iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max hit store shelves on Sept. 22, with Indian-made units available both domestically and abroad.

Apple has reportedly outpaced, for the first time, Korean rival Samsung in smartphone export volumes from India — shipping 49 percent of India’s total 12 million shipments in the June quarter versus Samsung’s 45 percent.

Industry sources are widely reported as claiming that Apple’s iPhone 15 series registered 100 percent growth compared to the iPhone 14 series on launch day.

Featured Image Credit: Laurenz Heymann; Pexels; Thank you!

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Ever tried fitting a square peg into a round hole? That’s what designing mobile apps feels like without considering layouts for iOS apps. You want it to work on every device, but it doesn’t. Many others have encountered the same difficulty.

I’ve been there, too – grappling with app layouts that look perfect on one screen size but distort or shrink awkwardly on another. It can be frustrating and time-consuming!

In this article, you’ll uncover the key to a website design, forming adaptable designs that adjust easily across various gadgets and display sizes. We will explore how to set up your development environment correctly, design optimized layouts, implement responsive components effectively, and, more importantly – troubleshoot common issues you might face.

Building Responsive Layouts: The Step-by-Step Guide

TechAhead builds all web apps and mobile applications, including those with responsive layouts for iOS apps. Our process involves several key steps:

• Determining User Needs: We start by understanding what our clients want their users to achieve with the application.
• Crafting Wireframes: Next comes creating wireframes, which serve as blueprints for the final design.
• Selecting Suitable Elements: We choose appropriate elements, like buttons, text fields, etc., based on device specifications.
• Making Use Of AutoLayout: To ensure responsiveness, we use AutoLayout – a tool Apple provides that automatically adjusts interface elements based on changes in the screen size.
• Testing: We conduct rigorous testing to ensure the app’s layout performs well across different devices and orientations.

In this era of mobile-first design strategies, recognizing the importance of responsive layouts is essential. With a user-friendly interface that adapts seamlessly to various screens and orientations, your iOS app can deliver an enhanced user experience, leading to higher engagement rates.

Highlighting the Importance of Responsiveness

In this digital age, having a responsive layout for your iOS apps is no longer an option but a necessity. With the rapid increase in mobile usage, ensuring that your app delivers an optimal experience across all devices and sizes of the screen is paramount.

The Rise of Mobile Usage

A recent report by Statista revealed over 6 billion smartphone users worldwide. This number is projected to reach 7.33 billion this year. Furthermore, DataReportal’s Global Digital Overview shows people spend over 40% of their internet time on mobile devices.

User Expectations and Experience

Users today expect seamless navigation and interaction with applications regardless of their device. A study conducted by Google Think Insights found that if an app or website does not satisfy users’ expectations, they are likely to switch to another one immediately.

The Impact on Business Success

A well-designed and responsive website design layout can significantly impact business success factors such as customer satisfaction, conversion rates, and search engine rankings. According to research from Clutch Co, businesses with optimized mobile websites tripled their chances of increasing their customer base up to 5 times compared with those who don’t have one.

At TechAhead, we understand the importance of building responsive layouts for iOS apps. We specialize in developing web and mobile applications that are visually appealing and use the latest responsive design principles by providing a seamless user experience across all devices.

Ensuring a Smooth User Experience Across Multiple Devices

Creating an app that functions seamlessly across multiple devices is crucial in mobile application development. This is especially true for iOS mobile apps, where users expect high-quality performance and a smooth user experience regardless of screen size or model.

Understanding Responsive Layouts

The first step towards ensuring this seamless functionality lies in understanding responsive layouts. A responsive layout adjusts its design based on the screen size and orientation to provide optimal viewing and interaction for optimal user experience. It allows your iOS app to look great on everything from smaller iPhone SE screens to larger iPad Pro displays without additional coding.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Responsive Layouts for iOS Apps

To create a responsive layout for your iOS app, follow these steps:

• Determine Your Breakpoints: You’ll need to decide at what points your design will change based on different-sized screens.
• Create Flexible Grids: Your grids should be able to resize themselves depending on the viewport width.
• Use Auto Layout: This tool provided by Apple helps you define rules (constraints) about how views and UI elements relate to each other regarding positioning and sizing.
• Prioritize Content: Last but not least, ensure that critical content remains prominent no matter what device it’s viewed on.

TechAhead has extensive experience building all types of web apps and mobile applications, including those with responsive layouts. We understand the importance of providing a smooth, user-friendly experience across multiple devices and are committed to helping you achieve this goal.

1. Create Wireframes & Mockups

Once you understand your users’ needs, start creating wireframes or mockups of the application using tools like Sketch or Adobe XD. These visual hierarchy guides represent the skeletal framework of your app and serve as a blueprint for its design and functionality.

2. Select The Right UI Elements

Your choice of responsive UI elements can significantly impact how users perceive and use your app. For example, buttons should be large enough for easy tapping; text must be legible even on smaller devices and screens; images must scale well across different devices and font sizes without losing quality.

3. Leverage Auto Layout Constraints

Auto Layout constraints, offered by Apple’s development environment Xcode, allow developers to create flexible interfaces that respond appropriately regardless of screen size or orientation changes.

Remember: Building responsive layouts isn’t just about making things look good—it’s also about ensuring usability across all devices.

Setting Up the Development Environment

Creating a responsive layout for iOS apps starts with setting up your development environment. You need to get everything in place before you can start building, just like a chef prepares their kitchen before cooking.

To commence, download Xcode onto your Mac. Apple’s integrated development environment (IDE) lets you build and design apps for all devices. Here is the link to download Xcode.

1. Xcode Installation Steps

You’ll find this process similar to downloading any other software:

• Go to the Apple App Store on your Mac and search for ‘Xcode’, then click Get once it appears.
• Type ‘Xcode’ into the search bar and click Get once located.
• Wait as your computer downloads and installs Xcode automatically.

The installation may take some time because of its large size. So, while waiting, grab a coffee or do something productive.

2. Coding Languages: Swift & Objective-C

Once installed, familiarize yourself with Swift or Objective-C– these are programming languages used by TechAhead when designing app layouts. Swift, particularly, has gained popularity due to its simplicity and power over recent years.

3. Create Your First Project

To ensure everything works perfectly fine after setup, create an initial project in XCode, which will give you hands-on experience in actual coding practice. Click File > New > Project from the menu options within the XCode interface, then select the appropriate template based on needs.

In essence, creating a development environment for your iOS app is akin to building the foundation of a house. It would be best to have it solid so that everything you build on top will hold up. With Xcode installed, understanding Swift or Objective-C under your belt, and an initial project underway – you’re ready to dive into designing responsive layouts.

Designing the Layout

When it comes to iOS app development, creating a responsive layout is vital. It’s about more than just aesthetics; you’re shaping the user experience. At TechAhead, we’ve gained knowledge over the years on how significant this procedure is.

A well-designed layout can adapt to user feedback from your target audience on different devices and screen sizes without compromising functionality or appearance.

Determining Your Audience’s Preferred Devices

The first step is understanding your target audience and their preferred device types. To start designing a practical layout for your iOS application, it helps to know what devices your target audience prefers. You need data on which iPhones or iPads they use most frequently so that you can optimize accordingly.

The Apple Developer site offers valuable resources on device usage statistics and design guidelines for each model.

2. Selecting Appropriate Responsive Design Elements

Moving forward with these insights allows us to select appropriate design elements – buttons, images, text fields – based on the average screen size of our target audience’s preferred devices. This approach ensures consistency across various screens while enhancing usability.

We have found tools like Sketch and Adobe XD incredibly useful when selecting other elements, allowing designers to visualize their work in real-time on multiple screen layouts simultaneously (Adobe XD).

3. Ensuring Seamless User Experience Across Devices

• You’ll want a clear hierarchy of information: prioritizing critical functions by placing them at the top of your layout.
• Navigation should be intuitive and simple. Aim to reduce the number of taps needed to access key features.
• Always design with thumb-friendly zones in mind – these are areas easily reached while holding a device single-handedly.

These elements ensure your app works smoothly on different devices – key for keeping users engaged. For more insights, check out the studies by Nielsen Norman Group.

Implementing Responsive Components

Creating an iOS app that functions optimally across all gadgets is essential. One key element to this goal is the implementation of responsive components. What does it imply for an element to be ‘adaptable’?

A responsive component adapts its size and layout according to the screen size and orientation of the device. This flexibility gives your app an edge, ensuring a consistent user experience across different iPhone models.

Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines recommend prioritizing adaptability in design. The company provides Xcode’s Auto Layout toolset, which lets you create flexible UIs for multiple screens.

1. Making Use of Constraints

The core principle behind implementing responsiveness lies within constraints – rules defining how responsive elements relate to each other and their parent view.

To start, specify horizontal and vertical constraints for each interface object. This helps determine their position relative to others or edges of the super-view.

2. Leveraging Stack Views

You can further streamline your design process using stack views (UIStackView). They automatically manage layout based on set parameters like spacing, alignment, and distribution – making it easier than ever.

3. Tailoring Designs with Size Classes

Beyond just adjusting dimensions, achieving truly adaptive layouts often needs variations in design depending on the screen size or orientation.

This is where font size and classes come into play. These abstract measurements allow designers to categorize devices based on font sizes and display characteristics, helping them tweak designs accordingly.

For example, iPads are smaller devices usually assigned Regular and font sizes and size widths, while iPhones have Compact widths.

You can use size classes to alter the number of elements visible on the screen or change their arrangement based on device type. Remember, creating an app that feels right at home across all devices is more than just scaling; it’s about giving a tailored, user-friendly experience.

Testing Design Layouts

As we create our iOS app layouts, testing becomes a vital step. This ensures that your design works well across different devices and screen sizes.

To guarantee that users receive an ideal experience on their device, examining your design across all the elements and sizes of the screen is critical. This includes iPhones of all models and iPad variants.

Think about it this way: You wouldn’t buy a new pair of shoes without trying them on first because they might not fit right or be comfortable. It’s the same with designing for multiple screens; you have to make sure everything works perfectly.

1. Selecting Devices for Testing

You don’t need every Apple device under the sun, but try testing your responsive layout using representative models from small (iPhone SE), medium (iPhone 12 Pro) to large devices (iPad Pro). These should cover most user scenarios and catch any major issues.

2. Finding Issues Through Testing

Different problems can surface when you start testing your designs across varying devices – overlapping elements, font size too small, or big buttons are just some examples. Like how professional chefs taste their dishes before serving them up – designers must do similar tests with their mobile apps.

Xcode offers excellent debugging tools such as ‘View UI Hierarchies’, which lets us examine each layer within our user interface closely, helping us find where things may have gone wrong during implementation.

• ‘Slow Animations’: By slowing down animations, developers can better understand the transitions and interactions between elements.
• ‘Color Blended Layers’: This tool helps identify layers that are being overdrawn, which can affect performance. It colors these areas red to highlight potential issues.

Optimizing Performance

Your iOS app’s responsive layout must perform smoothly, irrespective of the device or the user-friendly-sized screen. The performance optimization journey begins with the efficient use of resources.

1. Effective Use of Resources

The key to optimized performance lies in using your resources effectively. It’s like running a finely tuned machine; each part should function most efficiently. This means understanding how different components interact and optimizing their interactions for speed and efficiency.

Avoid unnecessary computations by caching results where possible. Caching is akin to jotting down a recipe instead of trying to remember it every time you cook – it saves time and effort.

2. Image Optimization

Apple’s guidelines on image optimization suggest we must aim for the right balance between image quality and file size. Imagine stuffing a king-sized comforter into a small washing machine – not practical. Similarly, large images can slow down your app considerably.

You can reduce image sizes without compromising quality using various online tools like TinyPNG.

3. Coding Practices

Clean coding practices go far in improving an application’s performance, too. Code clutter slows down apps just like traffic congestion slows us down during rush hour commutes.

• Ruthlessly eliminate dead code (unused variables/functions).
• Leverage lazy loading techniques similar to ordering pizza when you start feeling hungry – get what you need precisely when you need it.
• Make sure to use synchronous and asynchronous calls judiciously. It’s like deciding whether to call a friend (synchronous) or send them a text (asynchronous).

4. Testing Performance

No optimization strategy is complete without testing its efficacy. Apple’s Instruments tool allows you to monitor your app’s real-time performance, helping identify bottlenecks.

Optimization improves an app’s speed and ensures its performance remains consistent despite changes. It also ensures the app stays speedy, even when adding new features, squashing bugs, or updating the latest iOS versions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Creating responsive layouts for iOS apps is not without its challenges. Sometimes, even the most meticulously designed layout can encounter issues when viewed on a different device or a different size screen.

You can confidently address any design challenges with the right tools and understanding. Let’s delve into some practical strategies that TechAhead employs to fix typical hiccups with your website designs.

1. Flickering UI Elements

If elements in your app flicker when transitioning between different states or views, it might indicate a synchronization issue between various layers of the app’s User Interface (UI). One way to solve this problem is using CAMetalLayer, which provides high-performance rendering capabilities and minimizes graphical glitches.

2. Inconsistent Layout Across Devices

Sometimes, an app may look perfect on one device but completely disarrayed on another. This usually stems from hard-coding dimensions instead of employing relative sizing techniques like Auto Layout. Apple’s official documentation about Auto Layout is an excellent resource if you need help understanding how to implement dynamic sizing methods effectively within your application.

3. Poor Performance On Older Devices

No matter how beautiful an app looks, users will abandon it faster than a sinking ship if it doesn’t perform well across all devices – especially older ones. Test your app on different hardware configurations to ensure smooth performance across multiple generations of iPhones and iPads. Tools like XCode can simulate older devices and help identify performance bottlenecks.

4. Misaligned Touch Targets

Another common issue is touch targets not aligning correctly with the screen size, making the app difficult or frustrating. Again, Auto Layout comes to the rescue by allowing you to define constraints for interactive elements relative to other views, ensuring a consistent and optimal user experience regardless of device size.

FAQs- Layouts for Ios Apps:

How do I get different app layouts on my iPhone?

You can use Apple’s native tools like SwiftUI or third-party apps to customize your iPhone layout.

Can you change the layout of apps on iPhone?

iOS 14 and above lets you alter your home screen using App Library and Widgets for a unique look.

How do I organize my iPhone apps aesthetically?

Group similar apps together to make your iPhone more visually appealing, leverage color coding, or apply themed icons with Shortcuts.

How to structure an iOS app?

Create a solid structure by planning the navigation flow first. Use the Model-View-Controller (MVC) pattern as a starting point, then refine it based on needs.

Contact TechAhead today for all your web and mobile app development.

Inner Image Credit: Provided by the Author; Thank you!

Featured Image Credit: Provided by the Author; Thank you!

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Have you ever stumbled upon a mobile app that seemed to enchant you? An app that drew you in, reacted naturally to your touch, and seemed to anticipate precisely what you were looking for?

If the thought of how such a fascinating experience comes into being has ever crossed your mind, then you’ve found your way to the perfect place. Welcome to the enthralling universe of Flutter Magic.

Imagine this scenario: you open an app, and everything feels perfect. The hues, shifts, and interactions are like the app comprehends your desires before you’ve formulated them. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s the byproduct of meticulous design, fine adjustment, and a sprinkle of something special.

Within the Mobile App Development sphere, developers are granted a peculiar kind of magical instrument, allowing them to conjure these memorable mobile encounters. In a recent survey conducted by Statista, 46% of developers reported using Flutter.

From elegant animations to smooth performances, Flutter introduces boundless opportunities to bewitch its audience. But what is Flutter Magic, and how does it turn a regular app into a work of art? That’s the exact question we will delve into in this blog.

An In-Depth Look

Flutter is an open-source toolset for UI development, masterminded by Google. It’s employed to craft apps for many platforms, such as Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux, and even the web.

The standout trait of a mobile app is its capacity to open the codebase of an app in a singular language (Dart) and render it across varied platforms. This one-of-a-kind capability is pivotal in Mobile App Development, as it eases the coding endeavor and sustains a uniform ambiance across different platforms.

With a structure built on widgets, apps offer a vast scope for flexibility and personalization, becoming a favored tool for developers striving to create distinct and lively designs. The amalgamation of a grand collection of ready-made widgets and the potential to fabricate custom ones uncover infinite prospects for creative expression and inventive design.

The ‘Magic’ Within a Mobile App

The magical essence of a mobile app lies in how it revamps the procedure of designing UI/UX for mobile apps. Here’s why it’s deemed ‘magical’:

• Real-time Development: Thanks to a ‘hot reload’ trait, developers can promptly perceive the impact of the newest modification. This immediate feedback facilitates swift cycles and promotes toying with various UI elements. It eradicates the tiresome compile-wait-observe process, rendering the development swifter and more cohesive.
• Harmonious Experience Across Platforms: A common obstacle in mobile app creation is preserving a harmonious appearance and sensation across diverse platforms. Android has a market share of 70.9%, far ahead of iOS’s 28.36%. Methodology ensures that the UI functions consistently, irrespective of whether it’s displayed on Android or iOS. This congruous experience is a vital component of an app, making the development more efficient and elevating the entire user engagement.
• Customizable and Artistic UI: You want a widget catalog, and the freedom to generate custom widgets ensures that developers can realize their artistic vision unrestrictedly. This tremendous degree of customization leads to more captivating and aesthetically pleasing apps, adding to the magic that characterizes the user’s interaction.
• Performance Edge: Make or find an app that translates into native code and ensures that the apps run without a hitch, offering a flawless user encounter. This performance edge and the simplicity of creation contribute to the magical sensation of crafting and engaging with applications.
• Community and Ecosystem: The vibrant community of Flutter developers and the expanding ecosystem of extensions and tools further magnify the magic. The ongoing input from the community leads to a treasury of resources that assist developers at each phase of Flutter Mobile App Development.

The Strengths of UI/UX Development: A Closer Look

• Accelerated Development

We like Flutter’s ‘hot reload’ feature, which has emerged as a revolutionary tool. It lets developers instantly visualize the effects of recent alterations, thereby hastening the development and nurturing inventiveness.

Changes to the code materialize within moments without forfeiting the existing state of the app. It’s almost like wizardry in the development field, boosting creative minds and cutting down on debugging hours.

• Vivid and Adaptable User Interface

Find a framework with a generous library of pre-fashioned widgets, abiding by design doctrines such as Material Design and Cupertino. Be it a basic button or an elaborate animation, the architectural blueprint of widgets provides developers the capability to fashion highly customizable, responsive, and engaging UI components.

• Performance Comparable to Native Apps

With its widgets covering all crucial platform distinctions like scrolling, navigation, icons, and fonts, ensuring peak performance by compiling native code. Users are thus treated to a smooth, delay-free interaction that mirrors the experience of native applications.

• Uniformity Across Platforms

According to the StackOverflow Developers Survey, Flutter is one of the top 10 most efficient frameworks. Ensuring your app can present a consistent appearance across different platforms without demanding extra labor from developers.

The identical codebase functions on Android, iOS, and even web platforms. This uniformity across platforms simplifies code maintenance and guarantees a cohesive experience for users on any device.

• Smooth Integration of Animations

From basic tween-based animations to intricate transitions facilitating the crafting of spirited and responsive UI components that naturally react to user inputs, thus elevating the user’s enjoyment.

• Accessibility and Global Outreach

Ensure apps are operable by a broader populace, irrespective of physical capabilities. Furthermore, having backing for localization and internationalization helps developers forge apps that resonate with worldwide audiences. This inclusive approach stands as a defining merit.

• Handling Rich Media

Handling various media forms, from images to videos and custom illustrations. Strong support for asset variations, image caching, and tailored shaders signifies that developers can design visually opulent applications that distinguish themselves. This intricate control over media amplifies the sensory allure of applications, increasing user engagement.

• Flexible Architectural Design

Permit developers to effortlessly incorporate customized functionality and third-party add-ons, from fusing native code to employing platform-specific SDKs.

• A Vibrant Community and Comprehensive Documentation

Regardless of expertise level, community support, tutorials, how-to guides, and thorough API documents guarantee that assistance is continually accessible.

• Robust Testing Mechanism

From individual unit tests to widget tests and integration examinations, offer tools to ensure every application facet can be meticulously scrutinized, thus guaranteeing quality and dependability.

Unleashing the Magic for Unmatched UI/UX Design

Embracing a deep and nuanced understanding of several vital elements builds a compelling user experience.

Here’s a closer look at these aspects:

• Master the Widgets

Povide a broad spectrum of ready-made widgets while offering the freedom to create bespoke ones, making it a potent tool for crafting UIs.

Widgets are versatile and recyclable and constitute the app’s interface building blocks. Comprehending the widget tree and its interaction dynamics is pivotal to unlocking Flutter’s extraordinary UI potential.

• Maximize Customization

Craft unforgettable user experiences. Be it a custom color palette, distinctive animations, or intricate layout, flexible design systems will grant  precise dominion over each screen pixel. This customization level stretches to developing brand-specific experiences that resonate with the target audience.

• Animating Your Ideas

What’s a canvas without life? Animations infuse energy into static UI.  Developers can transform mundane transitions into captivating animated graphics. Use playful interactions lead to more lively and appealing applications.

• Designing with Adaptability

Developers can weave designs that cater to various devices and orientations and a responsive layout, an app’s visual appeal remains consistent across different screens, enhancing the overall user experience.

• Optimizing for Performance

The heartbeat of UI/UX is performance. Flutter’s powerful engine supports high-speed rendering, ensuring smooth animations and quick response times. By focusing on performance tuning, developers not only elevate user satisfaction but also contribute to the overall triumph of the app.

• Crafting Seamless Navigation

An app’s navigation system acts like its compass, guiding users effortlessly through different parts. Use versatile navigation options—including stacks, tabs, and drawers—allow for an intuitive and engaging journey through the application.

• Enhancing Interaction with Feedback

Feedback is the language that apps use to converse with users. Through visual signs, tactile sensations, and other interactive cues you can enable developers to craft applications that validate and guide users, enriching engagement.

• Opening Doors with Accessibility

Creating an app isn’t just about beauty; it’s about inclusivity. Accessibility features ensure that app’s visual elegance is available to all users, regardless of disabilities.

• Building Trust through Security and Privacy

Though not directly tied to UI/UX, security and privacy are pillars of trust. By adhering to top-notch security protocols in your Mobile App Development, you protect sensitive user data, reinforcing confidence in your application.

• Shaping with User Testing and Feedback

Who better to guide the design than the users themselves? Involving users in testing and collecting feedback is a strategic move in refining UI/UX to align with their expectations. This continuous cycle of feedback and improvement is pivotal in sculpting a design that resonates with the intended audience.

Create Unforgettable Mobile Experiences

• Crafting Visual Splendors

With its expansive assortment of design instruments and widgets you can authorize developers to produce magnificent visuals that don’t just meet the eye but also harmonize with brand ethos.

This encompasses the competency to tailor themes, introduce exquisite typography, and compose elaborate animations that effortlessly traverse various displays.

• Boosting User Involvement through Interaction

Interaction plays a crucial role in forging unforgettable mobile encounters. Mold responsive and user-focused designs that respond to touch, gestures, and additional interactions. Active engagement forges a bond between the user and the application, culminating in increased user retention.

• Assuring Uniformity Across Platforms

Guarantee that users enjoy a consistent top-tier experience, irrespective of the device in use. Develop a process and maintains the application’s enchantment consistently across the board.

• Breathing Life through Animations

Animations transcend mere visual charm; they serve functional purposes and engage users in various ways. Use a framework’s ample animation library to equip developers to produce vivacious interfaces that resonate and adapt to user conduct. Such dynamic interplay adds a nuanced layer to the experience, retaining user interest.

• Shaping Individualized Experiences

The art of personalization is central to sculpting memorable experiences.

• Centering on Usability and User-Driven Design

Usability stands as the cornerstone of any indelible mobile encounter. Advocate a user-driven design perspective where the user’s necessities and anticipations guide design choices.

This philosophy incorporates instinctive navigation, pronounced call-to-action triggers, and a user-friendly layout. Concentrating on usability guarantees the app’s aesthetic allure is complemented by its practical effectiveness.

• Realizing Accessibility for a Wider Reach

Accessibility extends the app’s reach to the broadest audience, encompassing those with disabilities. Use voice-over support and high-contrast visuals, foster the creation of inclusive designs. This ideology enlarges the user base and signifies a dedication to fairness and inclusiveness.

• Fusing Advanced Technologies

Facilitates the integration of avant-garde technologies like AR/VR, AI, and IoT. By exploiting these technologies, developers can craft futuristic experiences that astonish users while offering distinctive functionalities that distinguish the app.

Conclusion

From its extensive widget library and profound customization features to its robust animation abilities and focus on inclusiveness — we like the Mobile App Development, Flutter that provides an all-encompassing toolkit for developing visually enticing, highly interactive, and exceptionally uniform applications across multiple platforms.

The framework expedites the development journey and encourages designers and developers to explore the frontiers of creativity.

It presents an opportunity to embroider enchantment into our digital landscapes. As enterprises and developers continue to tap into this. We can eagerly anticipate a future replete with more compelling, aesthetically appealing, and memorable mobile experiences.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Plann; Pexels; Thank you!

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For the first time, some iPhone 15 models could be available in India — where Apple has been building some of its famous phones since 2017 — on launch day.

The news — first reported by Bloomberg — follows widespread reports that contractor Foxconn would aim to manufacture more iPhone 15 models at the Tamil Nadu, India facility than before as part of Apple’s plan to diversify manufacturing amid supply chain risks stemming from U.S.-China tensions.

The availability of iPhone 15 models in India — where Apple aims to eventually increase smartphone production from seven percent to 25 percent — on launch day will largely depend on Foxconn’s ability to scale production and the availability of components. However, the expected arrival of Indian-made iPhones alongside more common China-made units is widely heralded as a big win for the tech giant.

Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 15 — which is rumored to have thinner bezels, a titanium frame and USB-C charging — today at its Cupertino headquarters alongside its iOS 17, watchOS 10 and iPadOS 17 operating systems.

This article has been updated with additional information.

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Mobile App Security is a critical topic in today’s digital world. The rise of mobile apps has revolutionized the way we live, work, and play. However, this ease of access can also bring risks.

One primary concern for mobile app developers and users alike is security. Given the prevalence of data breaches, it is essential to prioritize security for your app.

To help you navigate these complexities, we will dive into mobile app security best practices to follow – offering valuable insights on protecting your application from potential threats.

Understanding Your Mobile Application Security Requirements

In mobile app development, using proper security measures is paramount. The initial step in safeguarding your application involves comprehending its unique security necessities.

Analyzing Data Types Handled by Your App

Different types of data are managed by various apps – from basic user information to highly-sensitive financial or personal details. Identifying what kind of data you’ll be dealing with will assist in determining appropriate protection measures and secure coding practices.

Evaluating Access Levels Needed

Identifying who requires access to various parts of your app code is another critical factor for ensuring mobile app security. Role-based permissions can significantly enhance your application’s safety, reducing exposure to potential vulnerabilities that malicious apps may exploit.

Selecting Suitable Security Measures

The protective actions should comply with industry standards and specific threats relevant to your app type. For instance, an e-commerce platform would require PCI-DSS compliance, while healthcare applications handling patient records must adhere to HIPAA regulations.

Remember: Understanding these elements before beginning the development process allows for a robust framework creation instead of just patchwork later on – saving time and resources while offering superior protection against unauthorized data access and attempts aiming to commit data theft.

It’s also crucial to keep up-to-date with the latest patches and updates from the vendor/platform provider, protecting against newly discovered exploits or vulnerabilities within older versions of software/hardware components used during the development process.

Essential Best Practices to Follow

They act as a bulwark against potential vulnerabilities and malicious apps while protecting sensitive data.

The Imperative for Data Encryption

Data encryption is non-negotiable when handling sensitive information within your application. It’s like a secure vault – impossible to open without the proper key, even if someone gains access.

Android Keystore System and iOS Keychain Services offer encrypted containers where cryptographic keys can be securely stored on mobile devices. These tools provide enhanced protection for users’ data when utilized effectively.

Banish Hard-Coded Passwords

Coding passwords directly into your app’s code is akin to leaving your house keys under the doormat; anyone who knows where to look will find them quickly enough. If attackers manage to reverse engineer or otherwise gain access to source code containing hardcoded credentials, these become easy targets for exploitation.

1. Avoid hard-coded secrets: Instead, use tokenization or hashing methods that convert critical values into nonsensitive equivalents, providing an additional layer of protection in case of any breach.
2. Prioritize multi-factor authentication (MFA): This approach requires users to verify their identity using at least two different factors before gaining account access, offering added security assurance.

Leverage Robust Authentication Methods

Implementing robust authentication methods is crucial for maximum security in mobile app security. This ensures that only authorized users gain access to your application and its sensitive data. In an era where malicious apps are prevalent, businesses must take proactive measures to secure their applications.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

A widely accepted practice in ensuring mobile app security is multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds a layer of protection to secure mobile apps by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access. These factors can be something they know (like a password), something they have (like a hardware token), or something they are (like biometrics).

Secure Containers

Besides multi-factor authentication, secure containers also significantly protect users’ data on mobile devices. Secure containers like Android Keystore and iOS Keychain store sensitive information securely on mobile phones, preventing unauthorized access and potential data theft.

API Security

To ensure comprehensive security for your mobile applications, don’t overlook API security. APIs often handle sensitive data transfer between servers and apps; hence, any vulnerabilities could lead to severe breaches. Secure coding practices, such as input validation and rate-limiting requests, can help identify vulnerabilities early and protect against attacks.

The need for rigorous measures cannot be overstated to ensure the safety of your customer’s personal information during mobile app development processes. A great app developer follows these best practices, among others, while building web apps or other types of applications with stringent attention to maintaining high levels of data security.

Essential Best Practices to Follow

Implementing a robust authentication system is the cornerstone of mobile app security. It serves as your application’s primary line of defense, keeping unauthorized users from accessing sensitive data.

Two-Factor Authentication: An Extra Layer of Protection

Two-factor authentication (2FA), or multi-factor biometric authentication, is critical in ensuring mobile app security. This process requires not only password or PIN entry but an additional verification step such as fingerprint recognition or receiving and entering a one-time code via SMS or email.

This method significantly increases the difficulty for malicious apps to gain access, even if they have somehow obtained user passwords. Major platforms like Google Play Store and Apple App Store encourage developers to integrate this feature into their applications due to its effectiveness in enhancing overall security measures.

Maintaining Strong Password Policies

Passwords are commonly used to secure user accounts despite potential associated vulnerabilities. To enhance their efficacy, enforcing strong password policies becomes crucially important – these may include requirements for longer passwords that utilize combinations of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

In addition to creating complex passwords, prompting users periodically about changing their existing ones while preventing reuse can further reduce risks associated with brute force attacks by cybercriminals attempting guesswork on credentials.

Securing Backend Systems: The Role Of API Security

Your backend systems need equal attention when it comes to ensuring comprehensive protection against possible threats targeting your mobile application’s integrity; here lies the significant role played by APIs, which often serve as a bridge between server-side components where most sensitive information resides and client devices interacting with those resources through apps themselves.

Ensure optimal API security requires implementing several strategies, including SSL/TLS encryption during the transmission phase involving server-client interactions, thorough validation of all incoming requests, limiting rate limits calls, using OAuth tokens instead of directly using login details, etc., thus helping maintain service availability under high loads without compromising performance aspects either.

Monitoring Access to Your Mobile Application

The security of your mobile application largely depends on how well you monitor access. By closely monitoring your mobile app developers’ activities, suspicious or unauthorized actions can be promptly detected and addressed.

Detection of Unusual Activity

In ensuring mobile app security, swiftly identifying any abnormal behavior is crucial. This could range from multiple failed login attempts by an individual user to unexpected data requests that deviate from regular usage patterns.

Anomaly detection algorithms are highly effective as they analyze behavioral patterns and instantly flag deviations. Machine learning techniques enhance these detections further for more accurate results.

Maintaining Detailed Logs

A comprehensive logging system is vital when monitoring access to your mobile apps. Such systems record all events occurring within the environment of your application – who performed what action, where it happened, and at what time?

These logs prove invaluable during forensic investigations after a potential breach is identified to understand its nature better. OWASP recommends detailed logs, including timestamps, source IP addresses, and user IDs, among other relevant information, for optimal results.

Prompt Alert Systems

Beyond detecting irregularities effectively through anomaly detection tools and recording them accurately via robust logging systems, prompt alert mechanisms play an equally important role in securing mobile applications against malicious attacks.

Such alerts notify about possible breaches and provide actionable insights into resolving them quickly, minimizing damage caused by delayed response times.

You may choose between open-source tools like Elasticsearch or commercial products like Splunk based on specific requirements related to cost-effectiveness versus feature richness.

Remember: Timely updates keep vulnerabilities away.

Essential Best Practices to Follow

In an era where mobile applications are a primary information and service delivery source, ensuring their security is paramount.

This means that in addition to keeping your app updated with the latest patches from vendors or platform providers, you should follow several other best practices.

Data Encryption as a Security Measure

Encrypted data can help safeguard sensitive information from unauthorized access by transforming it into indecipherable code. This applies when storing data (at rest) and during transmission between devices. Advanced algorithms like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) offer reliable protection against potential vulnerabilities. iOS Keychain for iOS apps or Android Keystore system for Android provides solid options to ensure mobile app security.

Firm Coding Practices Ensure Security

Coding securely helps prevent breaches that could lead to significant issues such as loss of user trust or legal repercussions. For instance, avoiding hard-coded passwords while developing will ensure no one gains unauthorized access using these loopholes. Moreover, validating all input fields properly reduces the chances of common threats, including buffer overflows and injection attacks. Check out this Common Weakness Enumeration Top 25 List.

User Authentication And Its Importance In Protecting Data

A robust authentication mechanism ensures that only authorized individuals gain access to any application, preventing malicious attempts at accessing user accounts through brute force attacks or password guessing. Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication provides additional layers, making breaches more difficult. For example, Google’s two-step verification process significantly enhances account safety.

Maintain Compliance & Conduct Regular Integrity Checks

All developed applications need regular compliance checks against established standards like OWASP’s top ten project, which identifies the most critical web application risks. Integrity checks post-deployment on platforms like Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Regularly Test Your App for Vulnerabilities

The security of your mobile application is a continuous journey, not merely a destination. Consistent vulnerability testing forms the backbone of effective mobile app development, as it uncovers potential weaknesses that malicious apps or cyber attackers could target.

Penetration Testing: Unmasking Potential Threats Ahead Of Time

In the realm of cybersecurity, prevention is better than cure. Penetration testing embodies this principle by simulating real-world attack scenarios on mobile applications to uncover possible points where hackers might gain access.

Beyond pen-testing, routine security checks are also indispensable. Automated programs such as static code examination and dynamic application security assessment (DAST) provide efficient techniques to analyze your source for abnormalities or hazards, like SQL injection or cross-site scripting (XSS).

Frequent Testing: The Key To Continuous Improvement

Routine vulnerability assessments provide opportunities to promptly address security issues while ensuring robust data protection within the app environment. Regular updates based on these findings enhance overall mobile application performance over time.

1. Testing new features during each update cycle ensures no newly introduced risks go unnoticed.
2. All existing functionalities should undergo rigorous checks, too, since even minor changes may inadvertently introduce unexpected vulnerabilities.
3. Apart from identifying flaws in coding practices, frequent assessment aids developers in striking a balance between user experience and stringent safety protocols.

Maintaining Balance Between User Experience And Stringent Safety Protocols

Navigating between optimal usability and rigid safety measures requires a profound understanding of both aspects – providing users with smooth interaction while keeping potential vulnerabilities at bay via consistent monitoring and timely action against detected threats.

This delicate balancing act demands a thorough comprehension of how different elements interact within an intricate ecosystem consisting of multi-factor authentication methods.

Utilize Secure Data Storage Solutions

With rising cyber threats and frequent data breaches, ensuring your app’s sensitive information remains secure is imperative.

Cloud Storage: A Preferred Choice

Most developers today opt for cloud storage solutions such as Amazon S3, Google Cloud Storage, or Microsoft Azure Blob Storage. These platforms have robust security features, including encryption during transit and at rest, access control policies, and logging capabilities.

However, these services demand meticulous configuration to avoid potential vulnerabilities. Therefore, adhering to best practices provided by the service provider when setting up your cloud storage solution becomes paramount.

Leveraging Encrypted Databases

Beyond using secure cloud storage solutions, you can bolster your mobile application’s security through encrypted databases. Technologies like SQLite integrated with SQLCipher extension or Realm database offer built-in encryption options that safeguard users’ data from unauthorized access even if an individual gains physical possession of the user’s device.

This added layer protects against malicious apps trying to gain unwarranted access via shared resources on Android devices or iOS Keychain on Apple devices, thus preventing any possible Android Keystore compromise or iOS Keychain misuse.

Data Encryption: Ensuring Security In Transit & At Rest

All sensitive information should be subjected to stringent measures ensuring its encryption while being transmitted over networks (in transit) and stored in systems (at rest). This practice ensures that even if communication gets intercepted by hackers, they won’t decipher meaningful information without having correct decryption keys.

Remember, securing data isn’t just about protecting user privacy and complying with legal regulations around handling personally identifiable information.

Keep Your App Up-to-Date

Maintaining the currency of your mobile application is a vital part of ensuring its security and functionality. Regular updates help protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities or exploits in older versions of software or hardware components used during mobile app development.

The Necessity for Frequent Updates

Frequent updates are essential for more than just incorporating fresh features or mending bugs; they’re also a must-have to guarantee mobile app security. When an update rolls out, it often includes patches designed to fix potential vulnerabilities identified by developers. These weaknesses could be exploited by malicious apps if left unaddressed.

Beyond the security risk of securing your app from threats like data theft, regular updates significantly enhance user experience on platforms such as Google Play Store and iOS App Store.

Staying Current with Security Patches

Promptly applying security patches, which address known flaws within the software component post-release, prevents hackers from exploiting these gaps before you can rectify them. Prompt action is crucial in this fast-paced digital world where every second counts when protecting users’ sensitive information.

Incorporating Automated Update Procedures

To provide continuous protection for your customers using your mobile applications, ensure your mobile app development company incorporates automated update procedures into their design wherever possible. Automating these processes reduces human error while maintaining consistent defense mechanisms against emerging cyber threats.

1. An automatic system ensures immediate installation once the vendor releases an updated version.
2. This process helps maintain customer trust and business reputation.

Note: Staying ahead in today’s dynamic digital landscape requires constant vigilance; hence, keeping our apps up-to-date should always remain a top priority.

FAQs- Best Practices to Follow for Mobile Apps

What are mobile security best practices?

Mobile security best practices include using secure coding, implementing robust authentication systems, regularly doing mobile app security testing for vulnerabilities, utilizing secure data storage solutions, and keeping your app up-to-date.

How can I make my mobile application secure?

You can ensure mobile application security by understanding its requirements, employing secure coding practices, monitoring access to the mobile app data encryption, and consistently testing for potential threats.

What mobile security best practices help protect you and your mobile device?

Use strong passwords or biometric locks on devices/apps to protect yourself and your device. Install trusted apps only from official app stores. Keep software updated to avoid known vulnerabilities.

Which of the following is a best practice when using mobile devices?

Avoiding public Wi-Fi networks without VPN protection is crucial when using mobile devices due to the potential risks of unsecured connections.

All these elements together form an essential guide to securing mobile apps effectively.

Featured Image Credit: Matheus Bertelli; Pexels; Thank you!

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Mobile App Localization is a game-changer, folks. Yet when it’s time to globalize their app, many developers hit a wall. The challenge? Mobile App Localization.

Most developers lack knowledge of how to approach mobile app localization. This very hurdle separates the small-time developer from the global player. If you’re unsure about localizing your app effectively, reaching this level seems like an uphill battle.

Navigating localization isn’t easy; trust me on that one!

I recently spoke with a promising developer who tried his hand at localization…only for users in Spain to uninstall his app because they found specific phrases offensive due to incorrect translation.

This experience has made him hesitant about attempting localization again. He worries that his user base may remain confined to countries where English is spoken.

No surprise there.

What is Mobile App Localization?

In mobile app development, a term frequently used is ‘mobile app localization.’ But what does it mean? Mobile app localization refers to adapting applications in different regions and languages. It’s not just about translating text; it involves considering cultural nuances such as symbols, colors, and images.

This process can significantly enhance the user experience (UX), increase engagement rates, and boost downloads from Google Play Store and Apple App Store by improving app store page visibility through keyword localization efforts on these platforms’ search engines.

The Intricacies of Localizing Mobile Apps

Localizing your mobile apps goes beyond mere language translation – many factors are at play here. One key aspect includes understanding how date formats vary around the globe: some countries follow the day/month/year format, while others prefer the month/day/year format.

• Cultural adaptation involves changing UI/UX elements based on reading direction or replacing imagery/icons with culturally appropriate ones.
• Linguistic Adaptation: Resource files containing translation keys must be converted into translated strings according to local regulations & customs.

A Glimpse Into The Process Of Mobile Application Localization

To ensure successful full-app-localization, you must first devise a comprehensive plan outlining every phase of this project:

1. Determining target languages & regions,
2. Analyzing strategies local competitors use before finally starting translations resource file(s).

Your goal should consistently be delivering localized experiences without compromising performance speed, which often requires using tools like ‘Mobile SDK‘ for managing language assets efficiently, allowing easy swapping between translations depending upon users’ preferences/settings, thereby providing a truly localized experience irrespective of the device model/version used by end-users.

Lastly, quality assurance testing ensures no bugs/errors exist post-translation. It results in a flawless UX regardless of the location/language chosen, thus maximizing potential returns from the minimum viable localization effort invested initially during the development stage.

Benefits of Mobile App Localization

The mobile app localization process is a powerful strategy for businesses seeking to extend their reach and engagement. This technique not only makes your app accessible to a broader audience but also offers several other benefits.

Increased App Visibility and Downloads

A localized app can significantly boost its visibility on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. Translating your app store content into multiple languages opens up new markets where users are more likely to download an application in their native language.

This enhanced visibility directly leads to increased downloads. Research has demonstrated that apps supporting multiple languages get downloaded substantially more than those not.

Better User Experience (UX)

User experience lies at the core of any successful mobile application, with localizing your app playing a crucial role here. When users interact with an application in their native language, they feel more comfortable navigating through it, and understanding its features better, ultimately leading them to become loyal customers.

In addition, localization efforts should also consider cultural nuances beyond just text translation – including elements like date formats or currency symbols – ensuring the user feels truly catered for within their environment.

Compliance with Local Regulations

In certain regions worldwide, strict regulations about digital content are made available in local languages. Therefore, localizing your mobile apps to target these rules can help avoid legal complications while increasing trust among your app users, who appreciate seeing familiar assets used throughout the interface.

Growth Opportunities & Competitive Advantage

A well-executed full-app localization strategy gives companies access to international markets they might otherwise struggle to reach due to linguistic barriers. These untapped audiences represent significant growth opportunities for businesses willing to invest time and resources in continuous localization and creating experiences across all platforms, including Android and iOS devices.

Another benefit is gaining a competitive advantage over rivals who may not have taken steps towards such initiatives, providing a unique selling point to differentiate yourself from the competition and boosting the overall brand image perception among the global consumer base.

Testing & Quality Assurance for Mobile App Localization

Maintaining quality standards in your localized iOS app localization or your Android app localization can seem daunting, but with the right approach and tools at hand, it’s absolutely manageable. Here are some crucial steps to ensure your mobile application localization meets all the proper app store localization criteria.

Test Across Multiple Languages

The first step is testing across multiple languages. This means translating content into different target market languages and checking how well these translations work within the context of your app UI.

You must ensure translated strings fit nicely within buttons or menu items without breaking the layout or causing confusion among native speakers. IBM suggests using automated testing tools which support multiple languages as an efficient way of achieving this goal.

Check Compatibility on Different Devices

Your localized experience should be equally enjoyable regardless if users access it from an Android phone, a tablet, an iPhone, or a desktop computer. This requires thorough compatibility checks on various devices and operating systems.
Android Developers Guide, for instance, recommends creating alternative resource files explicitly tailored for specific screen sizes or orientations.

1. Create device-specific layouts – Your app interface might look great on one device, but what about others? Ensure you have optimized designs ready for all possible screens.
2. Prioritize popular models – While aiming at universal accessibility, focusing more resources on each region’s most commonly used devices is practical. You can get insights from Google Play Store analytics.
3. Aim high and low – Don’t forget about older OS versions. They still hold a significant user base, especially outside developed markets. So while leveraging the latest features, test backward compatibility as well.

Don’t Neglect Local Regulations Compliance

Finally, no matter how perfect language assets may appear, the last thing you want is to get pulled out from the App Store due to non-compliance issues. Remember, GDPR, COPPA, etc.; all apply here just like they do elsewhere.

Tools for Mobile App Localization

The complexity of mobile app localization demands various tools to effectively translate content, manage translations, and ensure consistency across multiple languages. The following are essential tools to aid the full and seamless mobile app localization process.

Translation Management Systems (TMS)

A Translation Management System (TMS) is a powerful resource for organizing and optimizing the translation process. It allows you to centralize your language assets, such as resource files and translated strings, making them easily accessible to all team members involved in the project.

TMS also facilitates collaboration between translators, app developers, and other stakeholders by providing features like workflow management and real-time updates on translation progress. Some popular TMS include Transifex or Crowdin, which have been instrumental in numerous successful localizing mobile app efforts.

Machine Translation Services

Solutions like Google Translate API or Microsoft Translator Text API provide instant automated translations into numerous target languages. While they may not always deliver perfect results due to nuances in native language expressions, these services serve as a good starting point before fine-tuning with human translators who are native speakers themselves.

Besides translating text from one language to another, these APIs offer additional functionalities such as detecting source language or integrating with existing apps via SDKs, thus adding value towards achieving minimum viable localization.

User Experience Testing Tools

To ensure a localized experience resonates well with users, it’s important to not just focus on text but also test user interface elements, layout, cultural appropriateness, etc. Using User Experience testing platforms allows you to observe how users interact and navigate through the app, thereby revealing potential issues and improving overall usability. This is where solutions like Lookback.io come in handy.

Cultural Consultation Services

Certain aspects might require a deeper understanding of specific contexts beyond mere translation. For this, consulting agencies specialize in helping businesses adapt their products to different cultures. They provide strategic advice based on comprehensive research about the world’s various societies, proving beneficial when tackling complex tasks and ensuring a smooth transition toward a global audience.

App Store Optimization (ASO) Tools

A crucial part of an effective localization strategy is ensuring visibility in both the Apple and Google Play stores. ASO includes achieving higher rankings by optimizing your keywords, descriptions, screenshots, reviews, etc., which is vital.

Several tools, including Sensor Tower and Mobile Action, are available in the market that helps track performance, competitor analysis, keyword optimization, and more. Ultimately, the aim is to make your app discoverable to relevant audiences, thus driving downloads and increasing reach.

Handling large volumes, especially dynamic ones, becomes more straightforward with Drupal, WordPress, and Joomla systems. CMSs enable you to create, edit, and publish content in diverse formats. Furthermore, many built-in plugins support the ease of transition towards supporting multiple languages, facilitating a smoother journey for end-users every step of the way.

Testing & Quality Assurance for Mobile App Localization

To succeed in the rapidly evolving mobile app development arena, an app localization tool is necessary for companies wishing to expand their reach internationally. But how can you ensure that your localized app meets quality standards? The answer lies in comprehensive testing across multiple languages and devices.

The Power of Localization Testing

Localization testing acts like a safety net, catching errors or oversights during translation. It’s about more than checking translations – verifying user interface (UI) elements, ensuring cultural appropriateness, and ensuring language switching works seamlessly.

Pillars of Effective Localization Testing

A successful localization test hinges on several factors:

1. User Interface: Ensuring translated text fits within UI components without disrupting layout or design aesthetics.
2. Languages: Confirming accurate support for multiple languages and seamless transition between them based on device settings.
3. Cultural Sensitivity: Evaluating content against local customs, values, and norms to avoid causing offense or misunderstanding among target users.

Hurdles in the Localization Testing Journey

• Different character sets may cause display issues due to operating system compatibility variances or screen resolution differences, especially when comparing Android devices with Apple products.
• Misinterpretation from direct word-to-word translations could distort the intended message conveyed by your app content, resulting in confusion among end-users.

A popular translation management platform offers features such as glossaries, which maintain consistency across translations, a history log tracking changes over time, and integration into agile workflows.

By incorporating rigorous quality assurance measures throughout your project, you increase chances for success and build stronger relationships by effectively providing truly global products catering to diverse global market audience needs.

FAQs: Mobile App Localization: Best Practices and Tools

How do I localize a mobile app?

To localize an app, you must translate its content into different languages, adapt it for cultural differences, and optimize the user interface for various markets.

What is mobile localization?

Mobile localization involves adapting a mobile application to meet different global target markets’ local language and cultural requirements.

How do I internationalize an app?

You can internationalize an app by designing it with global audiences in mind from inception. This includes a localization platform using locale-neutral data formats and preparing your codebase for translation.

What is a locale in mobile app development?

A ‘locale’ refers to a device’s geographic or linguistic region settings that influence how information is presented within applications. It includes aspects like language, date format, currency, etc.

Key Takeaways

Mobile app localization is a game-changer. It’s your app-localized passport to global markets.

You’ve learned the ins and outs of it, from understanding its essence to reaping its benefits.

The best practices we discussed? They’re your roadmap for success in this journey.

Cultural considerations, language nuances, user experience optimization – they all matter—a lot.

And those tools we talked about? Your allies in navigating the complex terrain of localization.

Translation management systems, machine translation services, content management systems – they’re here to make things easier for you.

We also touched on testing and quality assurance. Remember them as your last defense against possible missteps or oversights during the localization app translation process.

Mobile App Localization is no longer an option; expanding reach and engagement globally is necessary.

At TechAhead, we are award-winning mobile app developers and the #1 company for all your web apps, app store optimization, and a solid mobile app localization strategy.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Eduardo Rosas; Pexels; Thank you!

The post Mobile App Localization: Best Practices and Tools appeared first on ReadWrite.

The e-commerce industry has seen double-digit growth every year for the past decade. Expanding by 31% in just the last two years, worldwide e-commerce sales are now tipped to hit $8 trillion by 2026.

(Image Source: Forbes Business)

On the back of a post-pandemic commerce boom and a global turn to smartphone-centric shopping, the competition to score leads online has never been harder.

Consumers are more demanding, and with more industry competitors to battle against, your site has to be in tip-top shape. Your site SEO strategy plays a crucial role in your online success in 2023. If you want to improve your search engine visibility and be in with a chance of scoring conversions, all aspects of your store should be optimized for a seamless user experience.

Stick with us as we address everything from page speed to personalization in the battle to become an e-commerce industry leader.

Addressing E-commerce Competition in 2023

It’s no secret that e-commerce competition is on the rise. As the high street dwindles, we find more innovative ways to access omnichannel shopping online. Whether you tap into e-commerce through the world wide web or jump into the TikTok shop on your lunch break, digital evolution is making it easier than ever before to purchase a product/service online.

The question is, how can small business owners keep up? As industry giants like Amazon and ASOS dominate the field, it’s up to smaller industry players to match their levels of personalization and gratification and prioritize a consumer-led approach to e-commerce.

“If you’re competitor-focused, you have to wait until there is a competitor doing something. Being customer-focused allows you to be more pioneering,” says Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon. “We see our customers as invited guests to a party, and we are the hosts. It’s our job every day to make every important aspect of the customer experience a little bit better.”

In fact, a whopping 91% of consumers now claim that they are more likely to shop with a brand that prioritizes their personal preferences and offers a seamless experience.

Offering your target audience an effortless journey from first impression to checkout is key in 2023. With so many options at a consumer’s fingertips, it’s up to your site to provide them with an experience they can’t receive anywhere else. This means that all areas of your site must be optimized to account for customization, inclusive accessibility, and a speedy journey to conversion.

Why is Site Speed so Important?

The e-commerce industry has become an arena for instant gratification, rendering site speed a top priority for modern online shoppers.

In fact, fast-loading pages are significantly linked to e-commerce success. Not only do speedy sites encourage visitors to stay on the site for longer, but just a one-second site speed improvement could boost your conversion rate by 27%.

The question is, how does site speed affect your SEO? According to Google, page loading time is one of the key ranking factors a search engine’s algorithm takes into account when scoring site domains.

Google is constantly looking to offer its users the best possible experience. So if your page loading speed is slow, you’ll find yourself further down the search string.

Slow page loading speed also encourages a higher bounce rate. Consumers are looking for quick calls to action and an effortless path to the checkout.

(Image Source: Backlinko)

With so many industry competitors to choose from, you could lose up to 100% of your traffic if your page takes just 6 seconds to load.

“Think about your own browsing habits. If you would not wait around for a page to load, why would you expect your customers to do so? They would not either,” says Chuck Kim, Co-founder of Executive Digital. “That’s why it’s vital to understand that every customer who bounces from your site is potentially a lost sale.”

3 Ways to Keep Your On-Page SEO In Check

If you want your e-commerce site to perform well in a competitive environment, you need to regularly review your SEO practices. Not only does an SEO-optimised website provide a more seamless experience for a consumer. But it’s much more likely to be picked up by Google’s algorithm in an engine search.

Here are three ways to keep your on-page SEO in check for a faster-loading website and an e-commerce experience your consumers will come back to.

Removing Traffic Bots

In a global e-commerce landscape, online stores now find themselves flooded with traffic from a range of sources. With the ability to tap into Google from any country on any device or domain, there’s significant room for ‘botnet’ style traffic.

Not only can this clog up your server. If your site has small bandwidth, traffic bots can slow loading times down and even impact analytics metrics. This includes session duration, page views, and the geolocation of users.

Using analytic tools such as Finteza, you can swiftly detect and remove bot traffic, creating a site that runs more efficiently. As a multi-stage audience quality evaluation tool that is enabled to prioritize UTM tracking, Finteza can detect up to 12 types of dangerous or low-quality traffic sources.

Working as a webmaster’s analytic partner, Finteza produces reports in real-time. With the ability to monitor your traffic sources 24/7, the system can automatically notify you of suspicious threats and compile page-specific charts and graphs of live data.

Tracking

Better still, Finteza can even track the full path of a potential ‘bot’, making it easier to map suspicious activity. Using their Funnels feature, you can follow a bot’s journey from its source all the way to the checkout, aiding you in detecting potential fake conversions.

If you’re aiming to improve your page loading speed, removing bot traffic is essential. Not only will this help put an end to click fraud sessions, but with an accurate breakdown of your organic traffic, you’ll quickly be able to spot areas for UX improvement based on audience behavior stats.

In order to optimize your on-page SEO, it’s important to delve into organic traffic data. The more accurate your analytics are, the better your decision-making will be. Gaining knowledge about your audience’s behavior is key to improving bounce rates. Additionally, it ensures that the journey from impression to checkout is smooth and speedy.

Optimizing your Content for Mobile

It’s also important not to forget your mobile consumers when reviewing your on-page SEO. A whopping 91% of all online purchases are now made using a smartphone device. So, your e-commerce store must be fit to tackle mobile demands.

Mobile consumers are all about instant gratification. They want fast-loading content, strong visuals, and a personalized user experience during all stages of the funnel.

In fact, 40% of mobile consumers say that they will quickly jump to a competitor if a site’s smartphone-oriented UX is not up to scratch.

The key here is to start testing all areas of your website in a mobile format. Make sure images are optimized for smartphone screens and potentially larger files are compressed to ensure faster running speeds.

Investing in a Web Host

One of the quickest ways to ensure your page speed is well-optimized is to invest in a web hosting service.

As defined by Tech Radar, “Web hosting is a service that provides organizations and individuals with a platform to store their website files and make them accessible online.”

Think of it this way. If you wanted to access a file on your computer you can simply open it up. But, if you wanted to share this file with a user who is not in the room, then you’d have to send it to them.

Your website is essentially made up of files, and your web host is the sender. This allows visitors who interact with your domain to view the files in real-time. Therefore, the more powerful your hosting server, the quicker your consumers receive content.

To optimize your site for ultimate page success, it’s important to opt for a web host with large bandwidth. Plus one that can control large influxes of traffic at once. As your audience grows, your site speed should not have to suffer.

E-commerce Optimization of Tomorrow

The e-commerce industry continues to evolve. Of course, this adds SEO hurdles every step of the way, including things such as page speed.

As webmasters and site developers adapt to adhere to new devices and consumer demands, it’s important to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to on-page SEO. Ensuring that your target consumers receive the best user experience possible could be the difference between conversion and a page bounce.

The post Page Speed and SEO: How to Improve E-Commerce Websites appeared first on ReadWrite.

Americans are on track to receive a record-breaking 150 billion robotexts in 2022, according to Robokiller’s Mid-Year Report. Well, 2023 is about to shatter 2022 by 100+%, as Americans are expected to have over 180 billion robotexts and 80 billion robocalls and spam in 2023. These figures will mark record-setting increases of 100+% and 10%, respectively. Not only are these spam messages annoying, but they also result in significant losses for the victims.

According to the FTC, the average money lost to a phone scam is $1,000 per text and $1,500 per phone call scam, and according to Robokiller’s projections, scammers could steal upwards of $75 billion through phone scams in 2022, $15 billion through robotext scams and $66 billion through phone call scams. For some Americans, falling victim to a phone scam can be extremely hard to recover from financially.

What scams should Americans be wary of?

Scammers are known to follow trends to reach Americans easily and steal their money. For instance, in August 2022, student loan scams increased by 52% right after the Biden administration announced plans to forgive up to $10,000 in student loan debt from borrowers. Scammers wasted no time jumping on this trend to try and find a way to scam Americans with student loan debt.

Other scams like impersonating the IRS, Social Security Administration, your bank, or delivery parcel services are another way scammers attempt to reach you. Scammers often target vulnerable groups, such as people with debt or the elderly.

Some of their tactics, like the ones outlined above, are often used to lure victims alongside a scare tactic or alongside an offer of something that seems too good to be true. For example, at the end of the year, when Americans are feeling generous, some scammers may even pose as representatives from charitable organizations to steal money from your account.

One thing is for sure, scammers are relentless and will stop at nothing to try and scam you. Staying vigilant and being aware that scammers are clever can help you from falling victim to these scams. Remember: if the offer sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

What’s being done to curb the problem?

In 2021, all carriers had to implement STIR/SHAKEN, a set of protocols that aims to stop robocalls that use caller ID spoofing technology. Robokiller did observe a 5% decrease in spoofed spam calls in July 2021, but since then, spoofed spam calls have stayed stagnant. Though it may seem that STIR/SHAKEN is off to a very slow start, there’s hope that it will be helpful and decrease spoofed spam calls for good, but it’s unlikely it will do so all on its own.

More recently, in the last half of 2022, the FCC cracked down on certain robocalls and carriers. In November, the FCC announced its first shutdown of an international carrier for not complying with STIR/SHAKEN. The decision comes after the FCC announced that carriers must stop letting car warranty robocalls through their network. Since the ruling, Robokiller identified a significant decrease in the number of calls Americans received related to car warranties. What was once the number one robocall hitting American phones is now nonexistent.

And just four months later, the FCC announced it was asking carriers to block student loan scams from their network, which is no surprise as this category spiked after the Biden administration announced plans to forgive up to $10,000 in student loan debt. Since the FCC’s ruling, Robokiller has already observed a decrease in this type of scam, dropping nearly 88% since the announcement.

Regulations are in place, but is it enough?

The changes that took place in the last few months of 2022 are an exciting step in the fight against robocalls and will impact the number of robocalls Americans receive. But as government regulations tighten against robocalls, scammers are refining their tactics to focus solely on robotexts—and the results could be catastrophic.

In 2023, Americans could suffer significant losses. We saw this happen in 2021, when Americans received 55% more spam texts than in 2020, resulting in $10 billion in losses. The significant shift to robotexts is worse than in years past, and it’s costing vulnerable Americans millions in the process. The recent calls to action from state attorney generals calling attention to the robotexts problem and the FCC plans to combat robotexts are exciting next steps in the fight against all phone scams. However, those plans will likely take time to put in place, and Americans need action now.

What can consumers do to protect themselves?

With the uptick in robotexts, it’s important that Americans know what to look out for in those messages. The good news? There are ways to protect yourself from scammers.

Registering with the Do Not Call list is a good first step to stopping some unwanted calls. It is a helpful tool that will protect you from receiving telemarketing calls, specifically. Though if you receive unwanted calls that claim to be a telemarketer, you should approach those calls with caution.

Another way to protect yourself is to spot red flags. Some of these signs may include the caller having a sense of urgency, asking for your personal information, or offering you something that seems too good to be true. If you need clarification on whether a call or text message is spam, you should contact the company or person directly and ask if they contacted you.

Next, you can utilize your phone’s call-blocking solution to block these calls from reaching you. To do this, you can follow these steps to activate your phone-blocking solution:

iPhone:

• Go to settings, phone, and then tap Silence Unknown Callers
• You can also select Call Blocking & Identification to silence callers identified by your phone carrier as spam or fraud.

There are a few other options for Android:

• Block specific numbers as they come in by going to the call record in your phone app, tapping the number you wish to block, and then selecting “block/report spam.”
• You can also block ALL unknown calls on your Android by navigating to your phone settings, tapping “block numbers,” and enabling the “unknown” toggle to block unknown calls.

You can also follow the below steps to protect yourself:

• Don’t answer phone calls or texts from unknown numbers, especially those that call or text at odd hours.
• Don’t follow prompts like “Press 1” or click any links.
• Never provide personal information like banking details or other sensitive information.
• Download a spam text and call blocker to equip your phone with the latest technology to stop scams.

Spam calls and spam texts won’t go away any time soon, but these tips can help prevent these scammers from reaching you and reduce the number of spam calls and texts you receive, while protecting you from millions in losses to fraud at the same time.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Moose Photos; Pexels; Thank you!

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Mobile applications are on the rise, all thanks to the increasing demand for the best application that can act as the virtual representative and represent the business in the best manner. Since using the mobile app is much easier and more convenient for users, many businesses are looking forward to launching an application of their own. So, if you are one of them, it’s time to scrutinize and shortlist the best 10 mobile app development companies.

Without having the list of the top 10, you won’t be able to narrow down your list to a specific option. Besides, it can be difficult for you to rely on the company or the results. Therefore, in this article, we have created a comprehensive guide for the best mobile application development companies that have gained quite a name.

Top 10 mobile app development companies for 2023

With so many options, selecting the best mobile app development company is next to impossible. But when you have a list ready, you can easily apply some filters and narrow down the list. So, we have compiled a list of the 10 best companies in the world’s mobile app development niche of the software market.

1. eSparkBiz

Also considered one of the best mobile app development companies, eSparkBiz offers comprehensive IT solutions to businesses across India and other countries from different sectors. The company has a strong development team and focuses on the tech stack used.

It harnesses the potential of modern tech, whether it is Flutter and NodeJS for developing cross-platform mobile app UI or Python and Java for coding the backend. It is known for the innovative IT solutions that great minds come with, owing to an experience of 12 years in the field.

Being a CMMI Level-3 company, it has incorporated work methods like agility, well-managed infrastructure, and confidentiality. Therefore, your project will be safe in their hands.

Price: $ 15 – $ 25 per hour

2. Azumo

With the experience of more than six years, Azumo has helped companies of all sizes build intelligent applications. They help businesses adopt and move to modern technologies to compete in the rapidly digitizing landscape globally.

It is hard to innovate and modernize affordably, but Azumo will do just that for you. They develop custom applications and IoT mobile apps and believe that offshoring to Eastern Europe and South Asia made a wreck of communication.

Azumo is a full-stack development agency aiming to offer strategized and innovative ideas for mobile app development that can be executed across multiple digital interfaces. Customers can collaborate in real time with well-trained, engaged nearshore software development teams.

Price: $ 50 – $ 99 per hour

3. Algoworks

Based in India and US, Algoworks is one of the world’s best mobile app development companies. It was launched in 2006, and since then, it has designed over 500 applications for Fortune 500 and startup companies worldwide.

The best thing is that the company is now a licensed and certified Salesforce gold consulting partner and a PDO member. From developers to business analysts, that company features a strong team of professionals driven by passion and the urge to create benchmarks in the IT industry through innovation and disruptive technologies.

Algoworks will work on every single phase of mobile app development, including mobile strategy development, prototyping and ideation, user interface designing and experience enhancement, cross-platform and native app development, security and safety protocols, and implementation of DevOps.

Price: $ 25 – $ 49 per hour

4. Hyperlink InfoSystem

Being an ISO 9001: 2008 certified mobile app development company, Hyperlink InfoSystem works for clients belonging to the world’s superpowers, including the USA, Japan, the UK, Canada, and several other countries.

It follows strict and closed infrastructure and management protocols to deliver the most innovative IT solutions to the clients and bring revolution to their business.

Thanks to its contribution to The IT sector and the principle of developing mobile app solutions by using disruptive technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and so on, the company has become a prestigious member of GESIA.

Price: < $ 25 per hour

5. Appinventiv

Suppose you want to collaborate with a mobile application development company being able to harness the power of modern technologies and revolutionize the user experience. In that case, no other company will be as functional as Appinventiv.

It has a strong and adaptable team of more than 800 tech professionals who are potent enough to work on different domains of a software development project, whether it is ideation and prototyping or CI/CD pipeline development and code deployment.

Appinventiv has gained expertise in multiple next-gen technologies, like cloud computing, DevOps, blockchain, etc. Therefore, trusting Appinventiv with your project is not a bad idea. Its name is mentioned in the CIO Review as a prestigious mobile app development company.

Price: $ 25 – $ 49 per hour

6. WDI

WDI has set a separate platform for itself in terms of mobile app development. With an experience 20 years of as a leading IT company in the software industry, it has incorporated a top-notch tech stack comprising disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, IoT, and many more.

Being a full-stack software development company, it is well aware of the duties and responsibilities it has to fulfill to reach clients’ expectations. That’s why it has set a program record of delivering consistent performance with top-notch quality work and on-time submission.

WDI has adopted a continuous delivery model through which it offers a guarantee on project deliveries and an agile infrastructure that makes it adaptable to the changing market demands and requirements. One of its unique approaches towards mobile app development is planning the MVP and understanding that business target audience.

Price: < $ 25

7. Dev Technosys

Founded in 2010, it has its headquarters in California, United States, with branches in India, UAE, Singapore, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand. It has a team of more than 100 tech experts who are experienced and skilled in their fields and driven by determination and passion for delivering the most innovative and revolutionary products and services.

Dev Technosys is one of the best mobile app development companies with a certification from NASSCOM. It has worked with Fortune 500 and startup companies, offering excellent IT solutions to improve user experience by 10 folds.

With its flexible software development lifecycle models and scrum-certified teams, you won’t have to worry about project delivery and timeline. It will offer free support and maintenance services after code deployment. The company uses a great tech stack that includes top-notch technologies like mongo DB, React Native, Laravel, GitHub, Jira, Kotlin, GraphQL, Flutter, Trello, and NodeJS.

Price: $ 25 – $ 49 per hour

8. Quytech

With an experience of more than 12 years, Quytech is one of the top-rated mobile app development companies specializing in artificial intelligence, gamification, blockchain, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

From delivering Android and iOS app development to blockchain app development, it offers comprehensive IT solutions for businesses and ensures they can deliver an outstanding user experience. So far, the company has partnered with hundreds of clients from different industries like hospitality, healthcare, retail, FMCG, travel, real estate, and more.

To deliver outstanding projects and create innovative mobile applications, the company ensures to start from scratch, including choosing an appropriate tech stack depending on the client requirements and the market expectations.

Price: < $ 25 per hour

9. Octal IT Solution

Appraised as a CMMI Level 3 mobile app development company with a global presence in Singapore, the UK, India, and the US — Octal IT Solution is undoubtedly a power to consider. So far, it has developed over 1100 web and mobile applications for startups and Fortune 500 companies. It has worked with top companies like Zee5, Clarence, BMW, Vodafone, and IBM.

Thanks to a team of 180 plus professionals, the company can quickly revolutionize your business and take it to a top-notch level you couldn’t comprehend. It has a strategic partnership with several tech providers like Drupal association, Microsoft, Intel IoT solution, Amazon Web Services, and NASSCOM.

Octal IT Solution is an expert in developing mobile applications with different frameworks and proficient in ecommerce and CMS development and on-demand solutions like grocery delivery apps, food delivery apps, cab booking apps, eLearning apps, dating apps, medicine delivery apps, and so on.

Price: $ 25 – $ 49 per hour

10. Net Solutions

With 22 years of experience and working in 12 different time zones, Net Solutions is a winner. Headquartered in Chandigarh, India but Net Solutions has established a global presence in the US and in other countries like Canada, the UK.

It has worked with some top-rated clients like Unilever, Harvard Business Review, Microsoft, Porsche, and IMG. Due to its revolutionary and innovative ideas and passionate work culture, the company has been mentioned in the top 65 Digital Experience Service Providers 2017 in Forrester’s Vendor Landscape report.

In addition, Net Solutions has also earned the title of CRM Application Software Specialist in the Asia Pacific, according to Gartner Cool Vendors 2017 guide. Design thinking is the company’s main motto, along with offering customized agile technologies and methodologies to the clients, with the sole aim of taking their business operations to the next level.

Price: $ 25 – $ 49 per hour

How can a mobile app help a business to grow?

Before introducing the top 10 app development companies, let’s glance at the benefits of having a mobile app from a business perspective.

1. Mobile apps are easier to use for users than websites. Therefore, the chances of positively responding to your business operations, services, or products will skyrocket.
2. Since you can quickly launch a mobile app runnable on iOS and Android, you can target a more significant section of the audience and drive more traffic.
3. Mobile applications are easier to maintain with time. Plus, most mobile app development companies write scalable codes that make modifications easier and smoother.
4. With the help of the mobile app, you can offer products or services at your fingertips. Users can avail of them from anywhere and at any point in time.
5. Also, mobile applications can raise the bar of digital user experience more than any other software type.

How to choose the best mobile app development company?

Finding the best mobile app development company from this long list of options is cumbersome. Therefore, to ensure that you don’t make a wrong choice, we have briefly provided a guide to help you pick the name that can meet all your business expectations head-on.

1. Check the company profile and its recognition and appreciation so far, especially in mobile application development.
2. It is better to go with experienced companies with at least an experience 10 years of in offering mobile app development services to the world.
3. Always choose a company with a global presence because it has already crossed that benchmark and set a new milestone for itself by offering services to top-rated clients worldwide.
4. Go through the previous work to understand the level of their services and the type of mobile applications they have developed.
5. Also, check the tech stack used by the company to understand whether it will be able to meet your business requirements and budget constraint or not.

Conclusion

In this guide, we have introduced you to the world’s top 10 mobile app development companies. Therefore, you shouldn’t have any problem finding the best name for your business to provide you with the exact software you need to take up the user experience by several notches.

Featured Image Credit: Provided by the Author; Thank you!

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For those looking at open-source options for applications, this can mean choosing between Flutter and React Native. Though there are pros and cons with each, and React Native has been around longer, Flutter may be the better choice right now.

And if you looking to launch applications but can’t get the development team you need. And you’ve been told your runway is now shorter in anticipation of a recession and rising inflation. Your software development framework may play a bigger role than you expect.

Many mobile-first companies that are considering cross-platform solutions are choosing Flutter instead of React Native. For example, listen to what Sam Moore of Betterment had to say on Venturi’s Voice podcast earlier. And according to the 2021 State of Developer Ecosystem survey from JetBrains, Flutter has “surpassed React Native to become the most popular cross-platform mobile framework.” What’s driving that?

Speaking talent’s language

Take a step back from talent for a moment, and ask what the factors are driving your choices between open-source development kits for your multi-platform mobile development. How is that influencing your ability to grow? Here are eight questions to consider:

1. Do we want to be multi-platform (iOS, Android, Desktop, Web, Embedded), or is mobile cross-platform (iOS and Android) sufficient?
2. Which options give us the best performance and quality?
3. Which option is growing and provides the best long-term benefit?
4. What approach has the best developer experience?
5. What is the learning curve and impact on productivity?
6. Will we be able to train/hire effectively?
7. Will our team benefit from streamlining our engineering management process?
8. Do we value building and learning in a community-focused manner?

Let’s go through these questions in a bit more detail.

Cross-platform and multi-capability

Do you need to be cross-platform? React Native has helped popularize the cross-platform approach. But Flutter’s multi-platform ability to go beyond mobile to include Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, and more has been a significant advancement and selling point. Consider multi-capability dimensions as well. Can a development kit be useful for more than building apps that target different screens?

Here, Flutter enables developers to expand beyond traditional app development. They can move into areas that may have required entirely new workstreams and tooling earlier. These include games, backend code, and experiences for embedded devices. Flutter uses familiar tooling without requiring fluency with a new tech stack.

You can then program on a Raspberry Pi, like this project by Flutter GDE Roman Jaqeuz,get a game underway with 2D effects and physics, or even advance an infotainment system in a motor vehicle.

Further, with so much change in devices, the platform independence of Flutter is a big de-risker. As David DeRemer at Very Good Ventures points out – “Flutter is about platform ‘independence’ as much as it is about ‘multi-platform.’” He says you can create a single codebase and deploy it on any platform that can run the Flutter engine.

This is important because if you’re a hardware startup and your device has a screen user interface, but you’re early in the development phase and you haven’t finalized your OS, what do you do? Do you go with Linux, Android, or possibly Windows? That decision doesn’t have to be a gating factor that slows you down, and you can change your OS later if needed.

Catching up

Insiders say React Native has been catching up and has fixed a number of areas where Flutter has been out ahead.

Commentator and programmer Shalitha Suranga wrote last year, “Flutter apps exhibit great performance improvement over React Native applications due to blazing-fast Dart-to-Native binary communication. React Native communicates with native APIs via a JavaScript bridge.

The JavaScript bridge concept doesn’t perform well for all development requirements. As a result, the developer community started criticizing React Native since it showed poor performances on low-end devices and drained batteries so fast due to above-average resource usage.”

But Suranga reports React Native has been busy catching up and may be becoming more viable again. That may be true, which leads us to teams and efficiency.

A rallying point for streamlined teams

With Flutter, teams don’t need to be organized around platforms. You can focus on features, which is helpful for mobile but also for improving efficiency with web and other platform teams. Organizations building native apps often have separate teams for iOS and Android, and yet others have teams for web and desktop. Flutter teams can easily collaborate and work on the same codebase, and the platform is no longer the central organizing factor.

This single team streamlining is built for what’s ahead, and with a vast ecosystem, devs can find high-quality open-source tools and support from well-known brands like Canonical and Microsoft.

While React Native teams are also more streamlined with respect to mobile, Flutter’s multiplatform nature means the streamlined efforts of a team can expand to nearly any platform.

Which option is growing and maturing best?

You’ve probably heard the words “React Native” for longer and more persistently than “Flutter.” And it’s easy to assume the pool of developer talent is deeper on the React Native side, given its history.

That being said, to date, more than 500,000 apps have been built with Flutter. Web and desktop apps are likely to follow suit now that Flutter is officially stable for web, Windows, macOS, and Linux. The release of Flutter 3.0 and Dart 2.17 came with updates that deliver stability and maturity. So, Flutter’s now stable for six platforms, including Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, web, and Windows. There’s advanced support, new lint rules, performance improvements, and Material Design 3 support.

While exact usage metrics are hard to come by, the Flutter community points to trends on GitHub and StackOverflow to illustrate its rapid growth relative to other alternatives.

Building and learning in the open

React Native is open source and boasts a strong operations support system (OSS) network thanks to JavaScript.

That being said, looking at the source code, developers can see exactly how Flutter works. If you run into a problem, you can open an issue on the repo, and the Flutter team promptly responds. Flutter maintains an up-to-date roadmap, and they deliver annual updates on the strategy for the UI toolkit. There are no surprises. Teams can be confident that what they see is what they get.

There’s an extensive global community of other passionate developers who continually use open-sourcing packages and content. Find a helpful open-source package on pub.dev and check out this list with favorites.

What about Dart?

RedMonk shows Dart is now on the playing field with JavaScript and Python, which then plays a role in Flutter. According to RedMonk analyst James Governor “Dart is, like so many technologies, a 10-year overnight success story.” Dart is easy to learn, especially if you’re coming from JavaScript or Swift.

Dart is more than just the language powering Flutter. It’s on the server. With solutions like Serverpod and Alfred, Dart’s full-stack capabilities are growing. Open-sourced Dart Frog has now emerged as a popular backend framework. It can be used to set up a simple backend, create middleware, and interact with a legacy backend. See what Felix Angelov at Very Good Ventures had to say about Dart Frog’s stability in August.

This provides a unified tech stack with shared tooling and models. With Dart Frog, developers familiar with Dart aren’t limited to building for the front end.

Here we go!

Doing more with less is becoming the watchword for the year ahead. But you need a critical mass of talent that can carry your digital initiatives forward, thus carrying the business forward. That’s why paying attention to the tools you’re using is important.

Are they allowing your team to do more, more efficiently, and without burning them out? And does the sophistication of your operation and your development process create a halo around what you’re doing and attract more of the right people? The answers can help you avoid the fate of others panicking around you.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by ThisIsEngineering; Pexels; Thank you!

The post What Drives Choosing Flutter Over React Native? appeared first on ReadWrite.

The edge computing market is expected to reach $274 billion by 2025, focusing on segments like the internet of things, public cloud services, and patents and standards.

Most of this contribution is backed by enterprises shifting their data centers to the cloud. This has enabled enterprises to move beyond cloud systems to edge computing systems and extract the maximum potential from their computing resources.

This blog will provide a closer understanding of edge computing and how it helps businesses in the technology sector.

Understanding edge computing

From a technical standpoint, edge computing is a distributed computing framework that bridges the gap between enterprise applications and data sources, including IoT devices or local edge servers.

For an easier understanding, edge computing helps businesses recreate experiences for people and profitability through improved response time and bandwidth availability.

Why does edge computing matter for businesses?

When we talk about the most significant industry zones worldwide, for instance, the GCC region, which is heavily focused on the focus areas like cloud services, the transition from cloud technology to edge computing is now more prominent than ever for enterprises to leverage the potential of the technology.

And with only 3% of businesses at an advanced stage in digital transformation initiatives, the potential of edge computing is up for grabs.

It doesn’t matter if you’re running a mobile app development company, a grocery store next door, or a next-gen enterprise. You need to understand how cloud edge helps businesses and invest in this open-source technology.

Predictive maintenance

Edge computing is primarily sought in industries where value-added assets have a massive impact on the business in case of losses.

The technology has enabled reports delivery systems to send and receive documentation in seconds, usually taking days to weeks.

Consider the example of the oil and gas industry, where some enterprises utilize edge computing. The predictive maintenance allowed them to proactively manage their pipeline and locate the underlying issues to prevent any accumulated problems.

Support for remote operations

The pandemic has forced businesses to opt for remote operations, or a hybrid work model at the least, with the workforce, spread across different geographical boundaries.

This drastic shift has brought in the use of edge apps that would permit employees to secure access to their organization’s official servers and systems.

Edge computing helps remote operations and hybrid teams by reducing the amount of data volume commuting via networks, providing computing density and adaptability, limiting data redundancy, and helping users comply with compliance and regulatory guidelines.

Faster response time

Businesses can enjoy lower latency by deploying computational processes near edge devices. For instance, employees typically experience delays when corresponding with their colleagues on another floor due to a server connected in any part of the world.

While an edge computing application would route data transfer across the office premises, lower the delays, and considerably save bandwidth at the same time.

You can quickly scale this example of in-office communication to the fact that around 50% of data created by businesses worldwide gets created outside the cloud. Putting it simply, edge computing allows instant transmission of data.

Robust data security

According to Statista, by 2025, global data production is expected to exceed 180 zettabytes. However, the data security concerns will equally increase proportionately.

And with businesses producing and relying on data more than ever, edge computing is a solid prospect to process large amounts of data sets more efficiently and securely when done near the data source.

When businesses take the cloud as their sole savior for data storage in a single centralized location, it opens up risks for hacking and phishing activities.

On the other hand, an edge-computing architecture puts an extra layer of security as it doesn’t depend on a single point of storage or application. In fact, it is distributed to different devices.

In case of a hack or phishing attempt, a single compromised component of the network can be disconnected from the rest of the network, preventing a complete shutdown.

Convenient IoT adoption

Global IoT spending is expected to surpass $410 billion by 2025. For businesses, especially in the manufacturing sector, who rely on connected technology, the internet of things is at the thickest of things in the global industry today.

Such organizations are on the constant hunt to up their computational potential and probe into IoT through a more dedicated data center.

The adoption of edge computing makes the subsequent adoption of enterprise IoT quite cheap and puts little stress on the network’s bandwidth.

Businesses with computational prowess can leverage the IoT market without adding any major infrastructure expenses.

Lower IT costs

The global IT spending on devices, enterprise software, and communication services rose from $4.21 trillion to $4.43 trillion in 2022. While a considerable share of the global spending accounts for cloud solutions, obviously as the pandemic has only pushed the remote operations and hybrid working model further up.

When users keep the data physically closer to the network’s edge, the cost of sending the data to the cloud reduces. Consequently, it encourages businesses to save on IT expenses.

Besides cutting costs, edge computing also contributes to helping businesses increase their ROI through enhanced data transmission speed and improved networks needed to experiment with new models.

How is edge computing different from cloud computing?

Although edge computing and cloud computing are each other’s counterparts for data storage and distribution, there are some key differences regarding the user’s context.

Deployment

Edge computing deploys resources at the point where data generates. In contrast, cloud computing deploys resources at global locations.

Centralization/decentralization

Edge computing operates in a decentralized fashion, while cloud computing is centralized.

Architecture

Edge is made on a stable architecture, and cloud resources are made on loose-coupled components.

Response time

Edge-based resources respond instantaneously, and cloud resources have a higher response time.

Bandwidth

Edge computing requires lower bandwidth, while the cloud counterpart consumes a higher bandwidth.

Although, the above difference makes edge computing a clear winner in all aspects for any business. But there’s a catch!

Suppose your business resides at multiple physical locations, and you need a lower latency network to promptly cater to your customers who are away from your on-prem location. In that case, edge computing is the right choice for you.

Top edge computing use cases

Although there are numerous examples of edge computing use cases, I’ll talk about a few that I find the most interesting.

Autonomous vehicles

Autonomous flocking of truck convoys is the easiest example we can come for autonomous vehicles. With the entire fleet traveling close while saving fuel expenses and limiting congestion, edge computing has the power to eliminate the needs of all the drivers except the one in the front vehicle.

The idea being the trucks will be able to communicate with the others via low latency.

Remote monitoring of oil and gas industry assets

Oil and gas accidents have proved catastrophic throughout the industry’s history. This requires extreme vigilance when monitoring the assets.

Although oil and gas assets are placed at remote locations, the edge computing technology facilitates real-time analytics with processing closer to the asset, indicating less dependency on high-quality connectivity to a centralized cloud.

Smart grid

Edge computing is on course to elevate the adoption of smart grids, enabling enterprises to handle their energy consumption better.

Modern factories, plants, and office buildings use edge platform-connected sensors and IoT devices to observe energy usage and examine their consumption in real-time.

The data from real-time analytics will aid energy management companies in creating suitable, efficient workarounds. For example, watching where high energy consumption machinery runs during off-peak hours for electricity demand.

Cloud gaming

Cloud gaming, seemingly the next-big-thing in the gaming business like Google Stadia, PlayStation Now, etc., dramatically leans on latency.

Moreover, cloud gaming companies are on the quest to build edge servers as close to gamers as possible to reduce latency and provide a fully immersive, glitch-less experience.

Final thoughts

This concludes our discussion on understanding edge computing and how it matters for enterprises worldwide.

Now that you understand the benefits of edge computing and its applications in different industries and use cases, it is evident that it’s a great value proposition for businesses that want to acquire competitive advantages and lead their spaces from the front line.

Featured Image Credit: Provided by the Author; Thank you!

The post Understanding Edge Computing and Why it Matters to Businesses Today appeared first on ReadWrite.

Banks and other financial services companies know that they are particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks launched against their business and their customers.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) or Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) solutions are a particularly effective defense, but some are better than others. This is particularly true with mobile authentication solutions.

Many consumers expect the same convenient experience they enjoy with their other mobile applications. However, no matter how convenient they are, these solutions must also be properly secured.

Mobile authentication solutions are rife with offerings that have significant security flaws

These flaws include solutions that use secure codes, also known as one-time passwords (OTPs), that are sent by SMS to customers’ mobile phones.

Widely used for many years, this method is extremely vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. Organizations must know their risks so they can protect themselves and their customers. They also need to understand how to make mobile authentication and transaction signing secure and how to use today’s controls and protocols to deploy secure, seamless, and scalable solutions.

Knowing What’s at Stake

There are a variety of attack vectors, including illicit text messaging services that hackers use to reroute people’s texts so they can gain access to their accounts.

For example, ReadWrite reported in May 2021 how FluBot malware, once installed, was collecting all passwords and sending them back to the company from which they originated. Even more virulent — the bot was also collecting all contacts and sending messages from the victim’s account, infecting even more people.

During another major attack a year earlier, attackers built a network of 16,000 virtual mobile devices, then intercepted SMS one-time-passwords (OTP).

According to coverage in Ars Technica, IBM Trusteer researchers uncovered the massive fraud operation that used a network of mobile device emulators to drain millions of dollars from mobile banking apps in a few days.

Growing reliance on digital transaction channels

With the growing reliance on digital transaction channels, the volume of cyberattacks has increased significantly.

As ReadWrite contributor Peter Daisyme pointed out in his 5 Ways to Improve and Optimize Your Company’s Data Security Program, the April 2022 Block-Cash App breach may have exposed more than eight million customers’ data.

And at the beginning of 2022, Crypto.com admitted that nearly 500 users had $30+ million stolen collectively after a severe breach.

The use of compromised user credentials continues to be the primary way that hackers launch their attacks

In Spring 2021, hackers exploited a multi-factor authentication flaw to steal cryptocurrency from about 6,000 Coinbase accounts. The flaw enabled them to enter an OTP via SMS and access and retrieve user account information.

Mobile authentication security provides a solution to these challenges, enabling users to take advantage of various mobile device capabilities to verify their identities before accessing an application or performing a transaction.

How Mobile Authentication Security Works

Transforming the ubiquitous smartphone into an easy-to-use, ubiquitous authenticator is ideal, but securing the mobile authentication process is no mean feat.

The industry has created baseline security standards for mobile authentication through the non-profit Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) foundation. These standards are unlike those created for web applications, though.

Mobile apps present significantly more options for storing data and leveraging a device’s built-in security features for authenticating their users. As a result, even small design choices can have a larger-than-anticipated impact on a solution’s overall security.

One mobile authentication choice is SMS verification, or OTP sent via SMS, which has grown in adoption worldwide. This was the leading authentication method among the financial institutions HID Global surveyed in a 2021 study. The Ponemon Institute has estimated that, despite its significant security risks, SMS OTP is used by about one-third of mobile users.

An alternative is authentication solutions that combine push notifications with a secure out-of-band channel.

The out-of-band approach provides a stronger combination of security, flexibility, and improved usability. This secure, channel-based authentication approach applies cryptographic techniques to the task of linking a specific device to its owner’s identity.

It precludes the possibility of an attacker impersonating someone unless they have physical access to the device. In addition, it is a more secure approach than SMS authentication because there is no need for a service provider to send sensitive information to a customer’s device over a network that is not secure.

Push notifications also make the user experience much more straightforward than SMS systems.

All a user must do when a push notification appears on their phone is validate the request by making a binary choice to either “Approve” or “Decline” the transaction. This contrasts with referencing an OTP received via SMS and re-type it into the phone.

Users typically see a tiny portion of the authentication process, most of which happens in the background.

The entire mobile authentication lifecycle starts with both registering and recognizing the user’s device and then provisioning secure credentials to the user.

The solution must also protect user credentials and secure all communications between the user, the app, and the backend servers.

Finally, it must protect sensitive data requests while the organization’s app runs, maintain security throughout the customer lifecycle, and prevent brute force attacks. There are challenges at each of these steps.

Solving Seven Major Strong Customer Authentication Challenges 

Various factors make mobile authentication security challenging to implement, including selecting and integrating the most effective techniques into the organization’s broader security systems. There are seven basic categories of challenges across the mobile authentication lifecycle:

1. Recognizing and Authenticating User Devices

An ideal way to authenticate a person’s digital identity is to recognize if and when they are using their device. Without this recognition, attackers can impersonate the user by transferring their data into a real or virtual clone of the actual mobile device.

To combat this, anti-cloning technology can be used to ensure that no one can gain access through this fraudulent device.

Anti-cloning techniques are most effective when they rely on the secure element (SE) shipped with nearly all modern smartphones.

In the case of iOS, this is the Secure Enclave dedicated secure subsystem integrated into Apple systems on chips (SoCs).

For Android devices, the Trusted Execution Environment or TEE runs alongside the android operating system. Leveraging the device’s secure element enables authentication solutions to take advantage of built-in hardware security protections to the maximum extent.

Additionally, the strongest authentication solutions stop would-be cloners from using multiple layers of cryptographic protection and secure individual keys with a unique device key. This unique key is generated during the initial provisioning process and, even if it is breached, ensures that an attacker cannot access any of the other keys or impersonate the device.

2. Provisioning User Devices So They Are Secure and Safe from Cyberattacks

Managing users’ identities and issuing credentials to their mobile devices must be secure and safe from cyberattacks.

Some mobile authentication solutions activate user devices using public-key cryptography (based on a mathematically linked private/public key pair). Within this public/private pair, the private keys generated by the customer’s device are considered secret.

They never leave the device, so there is less chance a credential will be compromised. This works well for mobile authenticators because they can make direct exchanges with the authentication server during authentication requests, and no manual intervention, such as a push authentication response, is required from a user.

When an exchange of secret key material is required between a mobile authenticator and the authentication server, two extra steps must be taken.

This is the case with mobile authenticators that offer a manual alternative (like an OTP). These steps ensure a secure exchange of the secret key material between the client and server:

1. The initial authentication of the user to establish a secure channel.
2. The establishment of the secure channel itself to exchange shared secrets.

With the most secure solutions, the initial authentication is unique to each user, this authentication event is used only once, and it expires immediately after registration has been successfully completed.

Some solutions also enable organizations to customize specific security settings and rules. For instance, they can change the length of the initial authentication code and its alphanumeric composition or the number of retries permitted after a failed initial authentication, among other parameters.

Organizations should also consider the policies that govern their user and device provisioning processes.

Ideally, the authentication solution should enable an organization to determine whether it is permissible to issue credentials to old operating systems or jailbroken phones or mobile devices that do not have a secure element.

Solutions like these also often give organizations a choice of what type of encryption to use. They also simplify the process of configuring settings beyond what’s already been established by the vendor.

3. Safeguarding User Credentials in a Dangerous Digital World

Strong policies are essential for protecting credentials from several different attacks and phishing schemes. However, this can be difficult, especially for password policies, which differ across organizations. Mobile authentication solutions can help in this area, accommodating these policy differences through the use of push notifications.

For example, a push notification can be triggered immediately after a successful password entry. Or, the user could be required first to take additional steps to authenticate their identities, such as entering their device PIN/password or a biometric marker.

4. Protecting Sensitive Data by Ensuring Secure Communications

Sensitive data can be intercepted when it moves through insecure channels, so encryption is required for all communication between users, mobile authentication solutions, and backend servers.

Before exchanging any messages, certificate pinning must be used to ensure that the mobile authentication solution communicates with the correct server. This restricts which certificates are valid for that server and establishes explicit trust between the authentication solution and servers while reducing reliance on third-party organizations.

The use of the TLS protocol is critical for transport-level security. For example, with TLS 1.2, every message shared between the authentication solution and the server is protected, as well as any notification transmitted to the mobile device.

Information should also be encrypted within this secure tunnel to ensure message-level security. The best authentication solutions go a step further by not requiring any sensitive user data to be sent within the user’s push notifications. Instead, they ensure a private, secure channel between the app and the server.

This channel retrieves the request’s context, limiting the risk of exposure and compromise.

5. Detecting and Blocking Real-Time Attacks

Zero-day vulnerabilities are growing, making it vital for all applications to apply various real-time techniques for detecting and halting attacks.

One way to do this is with Runtime Application Self Protection (RASP), which establishes the controls and techniques for detecting, blocking, and mitigating attacks while an application runs. RASP also helps prevent reverse engineering and unauthorized application code modification and requires no human intervention to perform these functions.

It is also vital that solutions employ a multi-layered defense.

This minimizes the probability that bypassing any single control will lead to a breach. These layers include:

• Code obfuscation: This is more difficult for humans to understand decompiled source code unless they modify the program execution.
• Tamper detection: By using technologies like ASLR, stack smashing, and property list checks (also known as .plist checks), organizations can be assured that the app or its environment has not been compromised and that any associated functionality has not been changed.
• Jailbreak and emulator detection: This enables organizations to create and enforce policies related to the types of devices that are trustworthy — or not.

6. Streamlining Authentication Lifecycle Management

To decrease the risk that cryptographic keys and certificates might be compromised, they are given finite lifecycles when issued to devices.

The shorter this lifecycle is, the more secure the key will be. Along with these shorter critical lifecycles, though, comes the requirement to follow disciplined key management and renewal procedures strictly.

However, the solution for accomplishing this shouldn’t force users to constantly re-register for the service.

The answer? The latest authentication solutions simplify the process of configuring the length of a key’s lifetime. They also employ mechanisms for allowing the server to renew a device’s keys before they expire automatically. Eliminating the need for explicit user intervention will enable organizations to comply with security best practices without disrupting their customers’ service.

7. Preventing Brute Force Attacks Aimed at Acquiring Login Information and Encryption Keys

Brute force attacks use trial and error to achieve their objectives. Unfortunately, these attacks are simple and effective enough to grow in popularity. To combat them, mobile authentication solutions use many different techniques.

Among the most effective is to enable organizations to customize settings according to their unique needs and policies. Examples include:

• Delay locks: organizations can customize an escalating series of delays before allowing a user to re-enter a PIN or password after a failed attempt.
• Counter locks: This setting is used to render invalid passwords after several unsuccessful attempts.
• Silent locks: Organizations can choose to lock a user out of the system, without any feedback, when they enter the wrong PIN or password.

Third-Party Audits and Certifications is a Key Indicators to Help Make the Right Decision

No security strategy is complete without third-party audits and certification of compliance. These help ensure that an authentication solution is secure and can protect the organization in today’s fast-changing landscape with rapidly evolving threats.

Internal reviews should be used to verify the solution against a set of security controls based on the industry standards like the OWASP Mobile Security Project.

External penetration audits and certifications — like the Certification de Sécurité de Premier Niveau (CSPN), awarded by the French National Agency for the Security of Information Systems (ANSSI) — can certify the solution’s robustness based on a conformity analysis and rigorous intrusion tests.

Securing the consumer mobile authentication journey across its complete lifecycle, from device registration through credential management and all recommended security audits and certifications, is not a simple proposition.

It requires organizations to carefully consider their risks, learn how to implement and leverage device-level security features that make mobile authentication and transaction signing secure, and apply the proper controls and protocols.

They can only deploy solutions that protect them and their consumers within today’s ever-expanding threat landscape.

Featured Image Credit: Provided by the Author; Thank you!

The post A Secure and Scalable Approach to Solving Bank Customers’ Identity Authentication Challenges appeared first on ReadWrite.

It’s no secret that digital transformation is top-of-mind across enterprises, but many organizations have neglected to upgrade their connectivity solutions. This isn’t a surprise, as billions have been spent promoting 5G solutions. Still, enterprises have been slow to adopt the technology, in part because of its complicated on-prem infrastructure, which is very expensive to both implement and maintain.

Private wireless solutions that utilize the power of the edge can provide businesses with digital transformation needs. The solutions include secure, reliable connectivity, cutting through the unnecessary complexities of traditional solutions, and reducing reliance on legacy carriers.

What’s more, private wireless solutions are far more cost-effective and quick to implement — especially when deployed using APIs — than those of the major cellular service providers, giving enterprises the flexibility to build and expand their networks as needed.

Enterprise Private Wireless

With significant performance, security, and cost-saving benefits, enterprise private wireless has the ability to make an immense impact on a wide variety of industries such as healthcare, education, smart cities, and even across the supply chain in warehousing and manufacturing.

Read on as I highlight each of these industries’ connectivity-related pain points, as well as the unique value propositions that enterprise private wireless can deliver for key enterprise segments.

Private Wireless in Healthcare

Healthcare facilities grow organically over time, leading to a labyrinth of buildings and campuses that are unfriendly to the unlicensed spectrum provided by traditional Wi-Fi.

Effective communication is the lifeblood of timely and efficient care. As we know, the use cases that the healthcare community relies upon span patient, physician, and even machine-to-machine. This makes dependable network connectivity harder and harder to maintain, especially as more mission-critical use cases and device types get added to already-strained Wi-Fi networks.

Furthermore, a lack of high-performance network connectivity makes it difficult to accurately track patients, personnel, and equipment in emergency situations.

Advancement in Healthcare Tech

Given the advancement in healthcare technology and protocols, hospitals are proving to be early adopters in the emergence of operational technology that brings together a tapestry of users and use cases that drive better outcomes for patients and more efficient delivery for practitioners.

Enhanced Operation Through Sensors and Mobile Devices

Sensors and other mobile devices throughout a facility improve efficiencies and enhance operations, but this class of new simplified endpoints needs access to higher performance connectivity.

The time-sensitive nature of these communications also requires a robust and dependable network to work efficiently. Furthermore, new technology implementations can leave networks more susceptible to breaches if not thoroughly secured, and healthcare facilities are rife with valuable information for potential hackers.

Patient privacy, especially, must be carefully guarded in order to continuously comply with strict HIPAA regulations. Private enterprise cellular solutions can deliver all of the above and more.

Consider Edge-Based Private Cellular Solutions

Edge-based private cellular solutions deliver reliable, secure communications across facilities to improve critical care experiences and ensure regulatory compliance — all while integrating with existing IT network governance.

The edge allows for stronger, more mobile network connections than those provided by traditional Wi-Fi offerings, ensuring equipment and systems spread out across the facility stay online at all times.

Private wireless networks also enhance security measures related to connectivity, helping to keep unauthorized eyes off of patients’ private information even when implementing new technologies.

With private wireless solutions powered by the edge, healthcare providers can administer crucial services and maintain patient privacy without needlessly worrying about the resilience of the enterprise connectivity platform.

Private Wireless in Education

Universities, K-12, and related organizations continue to have difficulty ensuring reliable coverage and network performance across their campuses. With hard-to-reach locations both inside and outside campus buildings, issues stemming from traditional Wi-Fi technology are rampant, as it fails to provide the mobility needed across widespread areas.

Furthermore, on nearly every educational campus, there are places where Radio Frequency (RF) blind spots and interference cut connectivity completely.

Stable Connectivity Ensure Safety

Stable connectivity infrastructure is required to ensure the safety of students and personnel — no matter where they are on the property. With carrier-class private wireless solutions, educational institutions can ensure their security, surveillance, and access control systems are working around the clock to maintain strict safety measures.

Schools can even utilize their networks to send out targeted communications to students, staff, and the community at large, including class notifications, campus weather alerts, schedule changes, and more. Additionally, edge-based solutions enable IT teams, to implement new localized and experimental applications in a much faster, more cost-effective way.

As educational institutions seek to upgrade their networks to keep up with an increasingly digital society, they should also look into what federal grants their organizations may be eligible for when it comes to connectivity.

Multiple federal programs exist today dedicated to providing billions of dollars to get campus communities better connected and help close the digital divide.

Private Wireless in Smart Cities

The more technology has evolved, the more businesses, consumers, and entire communities demand. However, legacy service providers cannot execute and deliver quickly enough to keep up with continued evolution and demand. The 5G ecosystem is too complicated, too hard to program, and too expensive to implement and maintain. This is especially true when it comes to covering entire cities.

“Smart cities” are becoming increasingly common as technology continues to infiltrate more and more of our lives, but much of America’s infrastructure is in need of investment, improvement, and intelligence. As such, the next generation of connectivity and computing implemented at a wide-scale municipal level will need to be used to help support reimagined roads, utilities, public transportation systems, and much more.

Digital Transformation of This Magnitude Should Move to the Edge

Simply put, cities looking to supercharge their digital transformation initiatives need to move to the edge. By implementing edge-based private wireless solutions, smart cities can enable stronger, safer connectivity across their communities. Complexity and costs associated with the implementation and maintenance of traditional mobile networks will be enhanced.

Smart traffic lights, low latency utility monitoring, real-time transit information, and accessible computing resources are just a few examples of the types of public benefits edge-based private wireless can enable.

Ultimately, the edge guarantees fast and reliable low-latency responses for the applications that require them most, creating more secure, more productive municipalities overall.

Private Wireless in the Supply Chain

The global supply chain has been under immense pressure for a while now due to a series of devastating worldwide events, and increasing investment in various supply chain technologies.

For instance, on the manufacturing and warehousing facility floors, humans and robots are working closer than ever as crucial elements of highly complex workflows optimized for the digital world. This means strong, reliable connectivity has never been as important in these spaces as it is today.

By ensuring connections remain firmly intact at all times, private wireless solutions powered by the edge can help ensure the safety of all supply chain personnel and equipment. It will help to drive continuous supply chain productivity. Additionally, cellular-class private network mobility substantially eclipses that of traditional Wi-Fi offerings, also enabling easy portability of the network.

What About Device Security With Private Mobile Networks?

As it pertains to device security — private mobile networks are able to secure all devices on the manufacturing and warehousing floors just as well, or even better, than a traditional cellular network can. Standard enterprise security mechanisms also natively apply, providing unparalleled defense against any would-be hackers.

When supply chain players look to deploy private mobile networks, it’s important for them to do thorough research to land on a solution that provides the maximum benefit for the lowest cost and the quickest deployment time.

A number of existing options require costly, time-consuming equipment and software implementation–but not all. Modern solutions that utilize easy-to-use APIs simplify the implementation and operation of a network, providing manufacturers and warehousers with the secure mobile connectivity they require to keep business running smoothly and safely today and beyond.

Last Words

As described throughout this article, private cellular solutions powered by the edge can greatly boost performance and security across the enterprise in key industries like healthcare, education, smart cities, and warehousing and manufacturing.

Offerings from traditional providers are expensive and often require long lead times plus mounds of equipment to implement.

Private wireless solutions powered by flexible, programmable APIs allow enterprises across industries to host, orchestrate, and customize mobile and Industry 4.0 applications at the Edge–as-a-Service.

This allows enterprises to time investments and enable enterprise connectivity capabilities to meet the diverse needs of use cases and users with a highly secure, reliable, and cost-effective long-term enterprise communications platform.

Featured Image Credit: Conny Schneider; Unsplash; Provided by the Author; Thank you!

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As Hackernoon reports, “Over the past few years, software has transferred all-important life processes to the digital environment, which helps to solve problems in various industries efficiently and quickly.”

Most developers don’t just think about writing code but try to create practical applications to help people, animals, and the planet. To understand how digital technology has changed our lives, it is necessary to become familiar with real-world problems being solved with software.

Software that Solves People’s Problems

The IT industry is becoming more and more in demand, and app usage is growing every day without forecasts of slowing down in the future. According to Statista, there are over 6.3 billion smartphone users worldwide. In the app stores, you can find an application for almost any need:

• sports and nutrition;
• health and spiritual development;
• counting finance and online banks;
• taxi service and delivery;
• booking tickets, hotels, restaurants, etc.

They made a real revolution in the world and helped people separate time from routine tasks and do more valuable things. However, there is a special section of applications that solves serious problems for people. They positively influence our health and help monitor the body efficiently.

Software for Doctor Online Visiting

With the onset of a pandemic that has changed almost the world’s way of life, many services have moved online. Medical services were no exception; they offered patients two options for assistance: consultation with a doctor via audio or video communication and answering questions by specialists in chat or undergoing remote diagnostics using special devices (for example, measuring and controlling heartbeat).

Software for Online Psychological Therapy

It often happens that a solution in a difficult psychological situation is not always possible to find on your own, you do not want to discuss it with friends, and there is no time for a psychotherapist, and sometimes even money. To help a person cope with such problems, companies annually develop and improve virtual helper: applications that provide support and assistance. Conforming to MarketWatch, the top 20 mental health apps in the US were downloaded by 4 million users for the first time in April 2020. An online specialist will help relieve stress, sort out a relationship with a partner, find a common language with a child, and much more. For example, Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, will call the rescue service if it recognizes a suicidal orientation in a question.

The application My Pocket Therapist brings together therapists from all over the UK and allows them to consult patients online.

It is a very convenient platform that helps you find the right therapist, make an appointment and conduct a video session in real-time. Patients can book sessions, pay, and leave reviews. Doctors create profiles, schedule appointments and receive payments with no effort.

Of course, apps won’t replace going to the hospital, making medical services more accessible. They can also relieve patient flows during a pandemic, screening out people with minimal symptoms. However, for services to truly help people, they must be functional, convenient, secure, and contain legal information.

Software for People with Disabilities

Simple actions such as talking on the smartphone, going downstairs, or even determining the expiration date of groceries in a store can become difficult for people with disabilities. However, some of these problems can be successfully dealt with using an app:

1. Roger Voice. It is software that deaf people can use to talk to their interlocutors on smartphones. This app uses speech recognition technology to convert voice to text so deaf people can read what the other person is telling them.
2. HearYouNow. With this application, deaf and hard-of-hearing users can adjust the sound according to their situation: public places, meetings, etc. To do this, they need to connect headphones to the smartphone, through which sound is supplied with appropriate settings to optimize the background or foreground. Developed by a Dutch hearing aid manufacturer, the app is intended for people who can use hearing aids but are not ready for it.
3. Be My Eyes. It is a crowdsourcing application that, using video chat, connects blind people and volunteers who are ready to help them in various everyday situations, for example, checking the expiration date of products or crossing the street.
4. Look At Me. The app developed by Samsung helps children with autism to socialize successfully. The app teaches them to make eye contact, recognize emotions, remember faces, and better express their feelings through game interaction.

Developers are constantly coming up with new software to help those in need. With these applications, anyone can feel like a full-fledged unit of society and not feel different.

Software for Online Workout

Most people know that workout is good for their health, but only a tiny fraction follows the doctors’ recommendations. In today’s world, you don’t have to go to a gym in bad weather – you can use apps on your phone. With the best trainers and personalized technology, a workout at home can be as effective as at the gym. The app store has strength training and cardio options, crossfit and stretching programs, yoga, meditation, and more.

For example, Nike has created an app that contains over 180 exercises from coaches in these categories. At Nike Training, anyone “can create a 4-week fitness program based on their personal goals. Whether you want to get lean or get stronger, you can choose your preferences, add your level of experience, and Nike Training takes care of the rest, choosing from a variety of workouts that fit.” You can train with your weight at home or with additional equipment in the gym.

But Seven has become a real discovery among healthy software. If you have seven minutes a day to do fitness anywhere without requiring any equipment, this app will help you see the first results. With research-based workouts, Seven is designed to get the most out of it in no time. “The 7-minute workout is a high-intensity interval training program. In total, you do 12 exercises, each for 30 seconds, with a break of 10 seconds. Activities include push-ups, triceps lifts, squats, and crunches. Just choose a goal: get in shape, lose weight or get strong and you can start.”

Software for Diets and Nutrition Improvement

As digital services spread to all segments of the population, the need for nutrition control applications has emerged. These mobile nutrition apps help you track your diet and manage food intolerance to boost energy, avoid mood swings and keep your day on track.

FatSecret is one of the most popular calorie counters for iOS and Android. This software is highly functional. The app has food and diet diaries, a diet calendar, Apple Watch integration, Apple Health, Google Fit, Samsung Health, a barcode scanner, reports, and the ability to set goals.

If you want to customize your food, then YAZIO software is a great solution. YAZIO offers customized plans for losing weight or building muscle. Standard functions are food diary, nutritional value calculator, and barcode scanner. The app evaluates the diet, allows you to add new goodies, and monitors proteins and fats.

Software for Delivery

It happens that, for various reasons, a person cannot leave the house and buy the necessary goods. It could be due to illness, busy schedule, or physical ability. In such moments, either close people or digital technologies can help. Food delivery software is popular right now. Fundera forecasts that delivery and online ordering will make $32 billion by 2024.

If you decide to spend time at home today, Glovo will save you. “It is a Spanish startup that delivers groceries, medicine, meals, and more within an hour from restaurants, cafes, shops, markets, and online stores.”

The service stands out from several sizable European delivery services because it offers to bring any small item on demand. The order can be made in the application or on the website. The Glovo platform connects three parties: the user, the business (shops, restaurants, etc.), and independent couriers. The application takes a commission from the cost of goods from partners and a delivery fee from users.

Nowadays, the delivery of goods by drones is gaining popularity. Most companies currently use drones with six or more propellers. The shipping container is placed in a compartment at the bottom of the drone or attached directly to the aircraft itself. The client receives the package by taking it from the drone compartment that has descended to the ground.

Amazon was one of the first to try drones delivering their packages. In December 2016, Amazon Prime Air successfully delivered the package to Cambridge — and as reported in June 2022, Amazon is doing delivery home testing in California.

Why Software Makes Life Easier

Modern software development aims to benefit people and save their time. To get to the doctor, you do not need to wait in line – you can contact them by phone. You don’t have to cook a lot of food because it can be ordered in the app with delivery. You also don’t need to go to the gym: do your workout at home by playing the video. Modern digital solutions allow everyone to live a fulfilling life even in isolation.

If you intend to create your own software, do not forget to implement functions that will be highly appreciated by the inhabitants of your country or even the planet. Thanks to this, you will increase awareness, attract users and tell the whole world about the product.

Image Credit: Photo by Mikhail Nilov; Pexels; Thank you!

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Mobile ads are significant for advertisers because of which app publishers are immensely focused on their app monetization techniques. However, knowing the right ad format that suits the particular ad or communicates well with the audience is a must.

In this article, we have listed some of the top mobile ad formats for display advertising campaigns popularly adopted by app publishers.

1. Video Advertisements:

Today, Vlogs are becoming exceptionally popular. It is the ultimate way to connect with the mass audience. Keeping this platform in mind, app publishers have opted to exhibit video ads in their applications.

The reach of video ads on mobile apps is much more than ads played on television or seen on laptops, even though their engagement rate is very high. This makes in-app video ads suitable for app owners to be exhibited on their platforms.

Generally, a video ad runs for 15 to 30 seconds as the user taps on them. Being appealing, they can engage more users than any other format. A great example of the same is Instagram or Tiktok.

2. Banner Advertisements:

Banner advertisements are one of the most popular types of mobile ad formats to date. Also, it is very simple and effective. What makes them a popular choice is that they can be easily produced and deployed. Certainly, the success rate of mobile app banner size ads rests on brand acknowledgment.

The big brands can get an advantage from such ads as they do not have to fit more information because of market goodwill.

On the other hand, emerging companies can take advantage of android app banner size ads by infusing short and crisp content that explains their purpose to the users. Such type of content will save the time of the users and help them understand the purpose quickly.

3. Native Advertisements:

Native advertisements are a process that involves the optimum use of paid advertisements that matches the appeal and functional prospects of the media platform. They are the means of sending a company’s business message to its target audience in the most non-intrusive way. It can be designed in different forms and sizes.

The best thing about this ad format is that it syndicates marketing messages with content focused on the users’ needs. App publishers have identified it as the finest of all mobile ad formats. The reason is that native advertising influences the framework and significance of the content where it appears.

This form of advertising makes more sense to the users and evokes them to react favorably. So, you can opt for a native advertising platform to engage your target audience.

4. Interstitial Advertisements:

Being full-screen ads, interstitial ads are meant to cover the crossing line of their host application. These types of ads are exhibited at the general changeover points within an app like among continuous activities or the pauses amid levels of the game.

On seeing the ads, the user can either click on the ad or just close it and browse the app. This format allows companies to gain the undivided attention of their target audience.

Although, an interactive app will certainly behold the users’ attention for a longer time as compared to one without any engaging aspect.

5. Offerwall Advertisements:

Depending on the target audience to cater to, these advertisements can be interactive or stationary. They are exhibited inside a mobile application, which offers a lot of options for the users to stay engaged. In fact, mobile games can be the finest examples of their usage.

Definitely, OfferWall ads intend to publicize third-party games or a sequence of games created by the same developer. These ad formats are very engaging and connect users with the app publishers for favorable results.

6. App Open Advertisements:

The Open Ad format is for app publishers. This type of app helps to load screens and ensure maximum profit margins.

The best thing about this app format is that you can close them at any point. When the user uses the app — the display is shown at the front — this covers the branding space on the app and lets you see if the user is accepting the app or not.

7. Rewarding Advertisements:

These sorts of advertisements offer rewards to the users for the time spent on a particular application. This type of format is meant to bring great results for advertisers, publishers, and users. Indeed, the rewarded video-based ads enable publishers to make profits, while advertisers tend to get brilliant exposure for the target audience.

Wrapping Up:

It is the excellent process module of the app publisher that can boost the entire mobile’s growth. The need to make this platform engaging for users has enabled app publishing companies or SAAS companies to do a profitable job.

Be it about monetizing with Google, enhancing user growth, analyzing market intelligence, or optimizing ad revenues, app publishers are meant to handle tasks meticulously.

This is certain that mobile apps offer a dynamic and engaging environment for users. So, they make a perfect example of technology used to promote business-oriented apps.

With changing technologies, different types of mobile ads are gaining momentum. Although, it might be overwhelming to identify the best-suited ad formats for your apps.

Moreover, a single misplacement of these different mobile ad formats may lead to critical policy violations. It is the reason that mobile app publishers are opted for strategizing the online business on smartphones.

The post Top Mobile Ad Formats for Display Advertising Campaigns in Mobile Apps appeared first on ReadWrite.

Mobile app developers must ensure that the mobile app is effortless while keeping internal information protected and secure. Complex or repeated authentications can be frustrating for your mobile app users.

This article discusses various means of simple and secure mobile authentication, ensuring frictionless UI and UX of mobile authentication screens and data security.

What is Mobile Authentication?

Mobile authentication is a security method to verify a user’s identity through mobile devices and mobile apps. It caters to one or more authentication methods to provide secure access to any particular app, resource, or service.

Let’s look at the various mobile authentication methods developers can utilize depending on their business use case.

Mobile Authentication Methods

Password-based Authentication

Email-Password and Username-Password are common types of password-based authentication. While utilizing these methods, developers should consider setting secure and robust password policies in their authentication mechanism, such as:

• Mandatory use of symbols and numbers
• Restricting the use of common passwords
• Blocking the use of profile information in passwords

These measures ensure better quality passwords and prevent user accounts from brute force and dictionary password attacks.

Limitation: Passwords are hard to remember, and typing in passwords on a small mobile screen degrades the user experience. Hence, developers must use authentication that does not compromise the security postures yet provide an appropriate user experience.

Patterns and Digit-based Authentication

The user must set a pattern or a digit-based PIN (typically 4 or 6 digits). Developers can utilize this as an authentication factor for their mobile application, as this authentication method is faster and more comfortable than entering passwords on a mobile screen.

Limitation: Both patterns and 4 or 6 digits PINs are limited. Also, users tend to use simple patterns and PINs like L or S patterns and 1234, 987654, date of birth as their password.

OTP-based Login

Users use an OTP received via SMS or email to authenticate themself. Thus, users do not have to remember a password, pattern, or PIN to access their account. At the same time, developers don’t have to implement password-based security mechanisms.

Biometric Authentication

Biometric authentication uses unique biological traits of users for mobile authentication. Some common examples of biometric authentication are fingerprint scanning, face unlocks, retina scans, and vocal cadence.

Developers can implement pre-coded libraries and modules to enable authentication through mobile components like the finger scanner, camera (for facial recognition), and microphone (for voice-based identification).

Social Login

It acts as a single sign-on authentication mechanism. Developers can implement this in mobile apps to use users’ login tokens from other social networking sites to allow access to the app.

Also, with social login, developers don’t need to worry about storing passwords securely and managing the password recovery option. It helps the user sign in to the mobile app without creating a separate account from within the app, hence increasing the user experience (UX).

User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) in Mobile Authentication

Login and registration screens are a gateway to your mobile applications; if they are a hassle, the user might not bother using the application. Thus, developers should pay a lot of attention to these screens regarding user experience and usage.

Here are some quick tips for mobile authentication screens:

• Simple Registration Process: Lengthy registration forms are a big no-no. Brainstorm essential information for creating an account via mobile application and only include those fields.
• External or Social Login: Allow users to log in via external or social accounts. This way, users don’t have to remember another password or credentials for your app.
• Facilitate Resetting: Include forget password on the login screen for good visibility and reach if the app provides password-based login. Also, setting the new password should be seamless and fast.
• Keep Users Logged In: Not logging out users on app close is helpful in a good experience. However, this depends on the type of app you offer. Developers should include MFA for better security if the app stores sensitive information or skip the stay logged-in feature altogether.
• Meaningful Error Messages: Errors and how they are handled directly impact user experience. Thus, developers should keep error messages meaningful and clearly state what went wrong and how to fix it.

Tip: Customize the mobile app keyboard for the type of input field. For example – display a numeric keyboard when asking for a PIN and include @ button when asking for an email address.

Conclusion

Considering the above points would result in a great and secure user experience for your mobile app users. However, if you feel executing these guidelines would take ample time, be informed that CIAM solutions are available in the market to handle all these requirements for you.

The post The Developer’s Guide to Mobile Authentication appeared first on ReadWrite.

Competing with millions of mobile apps, on the app store and Google play store, isn’t a breeze. In the first quarter of 2021, there were 3.48 million apps on the Google Play store. On the other hand, the iOS app store had 2.22 million mobile apps.

In both cases, getting your app noticed is indeed a tough nut to break. That’s why app store optimization is a must.

Store optimization is a marketing strategy that delivers measurable results. It is the process of optimizing, improving, and refining the app’s listing on the app store and Google play store. Different app store optimization tools can be used for making the process easy.

Thus, mobile app developers must use the best techniques that smoothen the chances of an app getting featured in top results. To improve the mobile app search ranking on the app store and play store, it is vital to focus on factors such as:

Name of the application

• Wise keyword selection
• Description
• Inclusion of screenshots
• App icon
• Reviews & ratings

We’ll be covering all the factors and answering the question of why you need app store optimization services. But first, let’s understand the importance of app store optimization.

Why is ASO important?

Google stated that 48% of its users find new apps by scrolling through the play store. With that being said, 111.5 billion downloads are happening that way- random scrolling. But making it into the list of ‘downloaded apps’ is possible when you acquire professional app store optimization services.

As per experts, app store optimization is an amazing marketing strategy. It is, unarguably, the best way to push the mobile app.

It not only focuses on increasing the number of app users but aims to rope in as many prospective loyal users as it can. The higher the number of loyal users, the higher the conversion rates will be.

In case a brand misses out on implementing the ASO, it is willingly avoiding a major discovery channel. So, here’s a quick look at some ASO optimization tips & strategies that will increase search results, the number of organic downloads, and improve Google play and app store rankings.

What do App Store and Google Play look for?

App Store and Play Store share one common trait — Bridging the gap between the user and desired mobile app(s). They figure out the relevant apps by judging the user’s behavior and displaying the relevant product pages.

Let’s focus on the key app factors that major app stores always consider.

In All but NAME

Naming the app is equivalent to naming a baby. Hence, you should be considerate while choosing the right name for the application. A wise name choice will not only provide it an identity but improve search rankings as well.

Presently, all apps go on the app store and Google play store. Since both stores manage titles and keywords differently, your name/title approach should be store-specific.

Google Play Store

When you are creating an app for android users, you need to be concise with its name. This is because the play store gives a meager space of 30 characters. However, the keywords can be integrated into the description of the app.

App Store

When you create the app for the iOS platform, you get plenty of space. The iOS platform provides 255 characters which is more than sufficient. Hence, making a crisp and keyword-rich name is not a bad idea.

Strong Keyword Game

Keyword research is a prominent ASO strategy preferred by mobile app developers. The right amount of keywords injected helps users to find and download your app effortlessly.

The unsaid rule of the app store optimization strategy says that one mustn’t exceed the keyword insertion limit in the app description. After all, the app is for users and its description should make sense when read.

But how to stuff the right keywords if thinking of an app store optimization strategy? Here’s the answer.

Keyword Research

Companies offering app store optimization services always conduct thorough research before integrating keywords. Factors like demand, traffic, difficulty, and how many apps are using it are checked.

Using app store keyword tools for keyword research can simplify the work. You can go for the free tools or paid tools as they offer worthy insights about the phrases and keywords used extensively by the target audience.

Ubersuggest, Answer The Public, Google Search Console, Keyword Sheeter, etc., are some free KW research tools. Also, here’s a quick look at some pro tips for picking up the best keywords for your mobile app:

• Include keyword(s) in the app name
• Avoid adding prepositions/conjunctions
• Use digits instead of spelling out figures
• Prefer commas instead of space for separating keywords

Briefing About The App

Technically, the app store and Google Play Store ignore the algorithm. But here’s the twist- users prefer a description to know & understand what the app is all about. In this section, experts emphasize the importance of focussing on the core functionalities instead of SEO.

Always keep it to the point and try clearing user queries like:

• The purpose of the application
• How does the application resolve an issue?
• Will it leave an impact by simplifying complex tasks?
• Is it worth downloading?

However, it is vital to remember that conciseness is the key. Do not go overboard with too much information. Increased mobile app downloads are directly linked to user acquisition. The more the downloads, the higher will be the user acquisition rate.

High-Quality Screenshots- Hidden ASO Strategy

How to convince someone to download your app without saying a word? It’s simple- just show them the HQ screenshots. High-quality screenshots are the second-most influential factor after ratings & reviews when it comes to inducing the target audience to download your app.

Since users do not spend beyond 10 seconds judging the app, the appearance of the app product pages becomes vital. Hence, it should be visually appealing to make a big difference. To make it impactful, add the most engaging screenshots.

App Icon – The Face of Mobile App

The icon is the face of the app that represents the brand on digital platforms. A catchy app icon can be a game-changer and magnetize more users to download the app, hence, it is a key part of app store optimization. The app icon should be simple, visually appealing, and congruent to the purpose served by the app.

For the best results, always look at the app icons of business competitors. This will aid in figuring out the loopholes in their design that you can avoid and integrations that have been made for a better appearance.

Reviews & Ratings

All reviews and ratings, in terms of quantity & quality, impact the app store optimization efforts. Reviews and ratings can be mustered from users that have downloaded the app. These can be further used as consideration for potential users looking for the right app.

Furthermore, more than 56% of users go through the ratings of an app before downloading. Hence, for more organic downloads and positive reviews, it becomes vital to keep the users delighted.

All satisfied users will drop a positive rating for the app that upscales the visibility on the app store and Google Play Store. You can muster reviews from users by sending push notifications or integrating an in-app popup.

The Bottom Line

If you seek numerous downloads, positive ratings, higher app store rankings, and potential revenue, paying close attention to app store optimization becomes vital. It is a process that needs to be monitored periodically for evaluation for better results.

The app store and Google Play Store won’t spill the beans about ranking the app, but there are certain criteria discussed above that positively impact the mobile app.

Right from conversion rates, user acquisition, and organic downloads, you can scale measurable results by acquiring professional app store optimization services.

Image Credit: Provided by the Author; Pexels; Thank you!

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