Top 15 Mobile App Development Platforms in 2025

Mobile technology is dominating the world, left, right, and center. From shopping to dating to games, there are over 8.9 million applications available worldwide. Out of this staggering number, the Apple App Store has over 1.64 million apps, and the Google Play Store has over 3.55 million apps.

Due to this massive growth, businesses are collaborating massively with an app development company to build a strong mobile presence. However, in this cut-throat and ever-increasing competition, the market demands innovation, and mobile app development platforms are the key to success.

Choosing the right app development platform is not only crucial but mandatory. The right platform helps build stunning apps, but what is the best mobile app development platform? Much depends on the type of app you want to build.

Today, we will explore 15 different mobile development platforms and frameworks, along with their introduction and benefits. Lastly, we will provide tips on choosing the best platform.

The rest is for you to decide!

What Are Mobile App Development Platforms?

According to statistics, the global mobile application development platforms market was worth US $1.941 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US $2.236 billion by 2031.

Mobile app development software programs provide the necessary tools and resources to develop mobile apps. These apps are typically for iOS and Android, which hold 99.26% of mobile operating systems share worldwide, but they can also be Web and Windows applications.

The best app development platform and framework includes a range of features, integrations, and services. Developers can use these assets to effectively and efficiently build, test, and deploy any kind of mobile application.

Types of Mobile App Development

With an increasing number of mobile applications entering the market, it is important to understand the different types. Below, we have highlighted the major types of mobile app development to help businesses and individuals understand their impact and use.

●      No Code or Low Code App Development

No-code or Low-Code is a method of mobile app design and development using simple drag-and-drop mechanics. It is much easier and more cost-effective than standard app development and reduces the load on the IT team.

Why Work With NC/LC?

It requires little to no coding knowledge and eliminates the need for designers or developers to build apps.

●      Native App Development

Native app development helps developers build OS-exclusive apps using native APIs and tools. It includes Android app development and iOS app development.

Why Choose Native?

Native apps utilize hardware and software-specific features and security parameters to ensure maximum data protection.

●      Cross-Platform App Development

Cross-Platforms app development allows the use of a single code base to build an app for multiple operating systems.

Why Opt For Cross-Platform?

It allows code reusability and helps businesses future-proof against changing markets. Also, it is cost-effective.

●      Hybrid App Development

Hybrid apps combine the best of both native and web-based worlds in a single, powerful, multi-platform application.

Why Build Hybrid?

Hybrid apps are easier to maintain and save a lot of time. Plus, they can access native device-specific features through different plugins and APIs.

●      Custom App Development

Custom development helps businesses build applications according to their unique needs and demands.

Why Go Custom?

Custom developments can help address multiple issues like communication and work efficiency with a single solution.

15 Best Mobile App Development Platforms for 2024

Now, there’s nothing left to discuss but go over the top 15 platforms that you can use to develop apps. We will dive into the details, tell you the basics, and help you understand the good and bad of each app development platform so you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

 1. Flutter

Made by Google, Flutter is an open-source software and the best mobile app development platform. It helps build, test, and deploy wonderful apps for mobile, web, and desktop platforms and design beautiful experiences from a single code base. If you’re juggling between a web app vs mobile app, our blog will help you uncover what is the right platform for your business.

Flutter provides a range of features and tools that make it easy for developers to build responsive, optimized, and creatively wonderful applications. These include cloud-based integrations, authentication, data storage, and more.

2. React Native

React Native is an open-source app development platform built by Meta Inc. Developers can use React Native app development to create truly native applications with stunning user experiences. Moreover, it offers file-based routing, allows the use of any library, SDK, or native code, and provides robust developer tools.

3. Ionic

Ionic Framework is another powerful open-source mobile app development platform and mobile UI kit. Ionic allows developers to build cross-platform apps from a single code base. Moreover, ionic is fast, offers light and dark modes, and supports React, Angular, and Vue.

4. .NET MAUI

Microsoft’s .NET MAUI is a multi-platform mobile development platform that helps developers build native, cross-platform desktop and mobile apps. Moreover, it utilizes one codebase and is built for productivity. Also, you can integrate Visual Studio with .NET MAUI.

5. Apple Xcode

Created by Apple, Xcode 15 is a seamless, engaging, and robust iOS app development platform. It offers advanced features, including, but not limited to, code completion, live animations, TestFlight, and Xcode Cloud. Moreover, Xcode 15 is 50% smaller, with downloadable simulator runtimes for all platforms. Also, it helps you stay organized with the new bookmark navigator.

6. Android Studio

Android Studio is the open-source go-to Android app development platform. It offers Jetpack compose for dynamic layouts, an intelligent code editor for faster working, a flexible build system, and an Android app bundle for optimization.

7. Firebase

Backed by Google, Firebase is a cross-platform app development platform that allows developers to build and deploy engaging, AI-powered applications. Moreover, it provides many advanced features, which are as follows:

Enhanced AI features

Genkit integration reduces complexities related to AI components by offering plugins, templates, and simple ideas. Vertex AI to integrate Gemini API features. Machine learning abilities integration in the apps.

Powerful app storage and synchronization

Data Connect. Cloud Firestore is used to build apps with the NoSQL document database. Real-time database with robust user-based security.

Static and dynamic app building and deployment

App hosting with the security and scalability of Google Cloud, seamless deployment with GitHub, and modern web framework support. Hosting, supported by global CDN.

Robust security

App check to protect backend resources and user authentication.

8. NativeScript

NativeScript is an impressive mobile app development platform for building native cross-platform mobile applications in JavaScript. It is highly compatible and supported with JavaScript, TypeScript, Angular, Vue, Solid, React Native, Svelte, Capacitor, and Ionic.

Furthermore, NativeScript also helps amateur and passionate developers to start a career through mentoring. Also, it offers AMA sessions with supportive OSS maintainers.

9. Apache Cordova

Although Apache Cordova was created by Nitobi, Adobe Systems bought the company in 2011 and made Apache Cordova open-source. It is a free and open-source app development platform that lets you build apps with HTML, CSS, and JS, and deploy on multiple platforms using a single code base.

Moreover, Apache Cordova also offers a range of tools and forums to help users with development. These include source code, issue tracker, stack overflow, mailing list, and nightly builds.

10. Appy Pie

Appy Pie is an online AI no-code and best mobile development platform. It is best for novice developers and people who just want to create a simple app for their business without learning to code. Moreover, it offers powerful AI design tools and automation features to help developers create engaging apps or websites.

11. Sencha Ext JS

Built to empower enterprise-level application development, Sencha Ext JS is an extensive JavaScript framework. It helps developers build cross-platform modern web and mobile applications. Moreover, it offers high-performance and comprehensive UI components and testing methods and is adaptive for easy layout management. Also, Sencha Ext JS is fully aligned with ADA standards.

12. Framework7

Framework7 is a powerful app development framework for building rich, full-featured applications. It is free and open-source and helps develop iOS, Android, and Desktop apps with native looks and feels.

Framework 7 offers impressive UI elements, a rich ecosystem, and premium templates and plugins. Finally, it also has community forums and tutorials for help.

13. Unity

Go create games and apps with one of the best gaming mobile app platforms, Unity. It provides end-to-end tools and services that allow developers to create games for more than 20 platforms. Moreover, it offers creator tools and enterprise support for CAD and 3D data immersion into apps. Also, it provides a complete set of tools, services, and support to help users grow their business.

14. OutSystems

OutSystems offers creating robust, enterprise-grade app development with an easy and friendly platform. It is a low-code platform that encourages efficiency and provides tools to help devs with AI use with the GenAI tool-set.

In short, OutSystems is a powerful mobile app development platform that helps build great customer and employee experiences and uses AI to transform operations and accelerate growth.

15. BuildFire

BuildFire is a top-tier mobile application development platform for iOS and Android devices. It offers a simple interface, allows adding custom functionality, decreases time-to-market, and lowers risks.

Moreover, users can build a number of mobile applications, which are as follows:

• Fully custom mobile apps
• Business workflow apps
• Employee communication apps
• Religious organizations apps
• Content creator apps
• Event apps
• Fitness apps
• ECommerce apps
• Education apps

Some Lesser-Known Mobile App Development Platforms To Check

Mobile app development is getting more complex and competitive with each passing year. If you want to stay ahead of the competition, you need to be the first one to grab new opportunities and open the market.

Although popular mobile app platforms like Flutter, React Native, Unity, and others are making their presence known, some underdogs are rising as well. These platforms may not be up to the best platforms level but are certainly not some to be ignored.

Here we will talk about some of the lesser-known app development platforms that are kind of hidden gems. You should consider them.

1. Laravel

The PHP framework-powered Laravel is a mobile app development platform for building solid and secure mobile applications. Moreover, the simple and easy development process not only makes it easy to create apps but also makes it fun.

Laravel helps develop full-stack applications in PHP, JavaScript, React, Vue, and Next.JS using different frontend and backend APIs. Also, it has everything you need to develop sound applications. This includes authentication, authorization, eloquent ORM, database migration, validation, notifications & mail, file storage, job queues, time scheduling, testing, and events & web sockets.

2. Titanium SDK

Titanium SDK is a complete mobile app development solution that lets you design cross-platform native apps. Developers can create stunning mobile experiences using JavaScript, integrate rich APIs, and include third-party integrations with ease.

Not only that, Titanium offers tons of support guidelines and good community support for easy learning.

3. Kony AppPlatform

Kony AppPlatform is a powerful platform for app building. It allows developers to create native, web, and hybrid apps using a single database. It offers simple drag and drop tools and makes it easy to develop engaging user interfaces and experiences.

4. Mendix

Mendix is one of the leading low-code development platforms. It helps developers build and deploy powerful and engaging applications without any serious coding knowledge. Moreover, Mendix offers pre-built templates and simple drag and drop functionality.

Mendix is a great tool for multi-platform development. It offers collaborative features so developers can work together more easily and efficiently. Also, it supports great functionality for integrations, including aws, dropbox, salesforce, docusign, and many more.

5. Monaca

The last lesser-known mobile app development platform on our list is Monaca. It is a fast, easy, and flexible cross-platform hybrid mobile app development tool. It works best with Apache Cordova and supercharges the Cordova apps and provides amazing results with lots of integrations and performance.

Not only that, Monaca is a beautiful and strong app development platform that works with many frameworks, including Angular, React.JS, Vue.JS, and others. The different features include remote building, powerful debugging, Cordova Power Plugins, and backend services.

More Information About Lesser Known Mobile App Development Tools

Benefits of Using Mobile App Development Platforms

With the rising demand for applications, app development platforms have also gained popularity. In an era where mobile applications are the primary source of almost everything, a mobile development platform brings tons of benefits for developers. These are as follows:

1. Diverse Features & Capabilities

App development platforms offer a range of powerful features, including built-in analytics, reporting, pre-built development environments, cloud-services integration, and many more, which help speed up deployment and lower overall development costs.

2. Multiple Operating System Support

Some app development platforms allow developers to build and deploy apps for multiple operating systems, including iOS, Android, and Windows. They use a single code base, which means devs don’t have to write long lines of code again and again.

3. Enhanced Security and Maintenance

A top-tier, best platform for mobile app development provides a diverse set of security features that help developers build apps with enhanced security. These include secure code, cache encryption, API security, application-level security, restricted access control, and many more.

Moreover, app development platforms make app updating and maintenance much easier with version control support and easy patch fixes. Also, it provides real-time feedback.

4. Availability of Pre-Built Components

The pre-built components and templates that many app development platforms provide help developers build interactive and stable applications. In turn, it increases user engagement and better revenue growth.

5. One For Every Skill-Level Developer

The biggest advantage of app development platforms is that there is one for every skill-level developer.

Some platforms are harder to use and require technical expertise and deep coding knowledge that only experienced developers can use. On the other hand, some platforms require little to no coding knowledge and allow low-skill developers to build apps with simple drag-and-drop features.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mobile App Development Platform and Framework

Finding the right mobile app platform may be a complex task, but it is essential for the sake of the project’s success and growth. Multiple factors come into play that you must consider to find the best app development platform according to your needs and demands. Here are the 5 factors that will help you choose the best app development platform and framework.

1. Identify Your Needs

Before you even start researching different app development platforms, you must think about whether you want to target iOS, Android, or both platforms. There are three types of mobile app development platforms:

• iOS Development Platform for iOS apps

Apple iOS is a tightly knitted platform with strict security. You will need to produce a robust app to deploy on the App Store and maintain it with updates to ensure optimal performance.

• Android Development Platform for Android apps

There are an excessive number of Android devices and so a big pool of potential customers. However, you will need to maintain app quality and test multiple times to ensure it works flawlessly on every device.

• Cross-Platform Development Platforms for Cross-Platform apps

These platforms utilize HTML5 and native plugins to help users build cross-platform apps capable of running on both iOS and Android. It is a cost-effective way to target multiple platforms and gain a wider reach. You will have to carefully evaluate frameworks to build perfect apps.

2. Understand The Audience

The second thing is to understand and evaluate your target audience.

In the global iPhone vs Android market share, Android has more than 70.6% share while iPhone stands at over 28.5%. However, in the US Mobile OS market, iPhone is leading the charge with over 56.5% share and Android has just over 43.1% share.

Also, you must consider the total iOS and Android users count by gender. If you must know, as of 2023, 28% of iPhone users were male and 31% were female, while 60% of Android users were male and 54% were female. It is not so different till now, in 2024, and will be more or less the same at the time you are building your app. It is especially important in case you are making a gender-specific app.

So, based on where you reside and your app, understand and research the audience. Choose the app OS which is dominating the market to increase the chances of your app to succeed.

3. Cost Comparison

Most app development platforms are free to use, but the frameworks may cost prices. App development is not free in any way. The overall mobile app development cost depends on the features, integrations, security, target platform, and your business.

An estimate of cost to make an app is around $5000 to $150,000 and more. For the complete pricing according to your needs, you must use app development cost calculator.

In addition, you have to consider the cost of running the platform for apps. iOS app development tools like Xcode work only on Macs, which is an expensive investment. On the other hand, almost every Android application development platform is more flexible and runs on pretty much every device, including Windows and Linux.

4. App Features

The next thing you have to consider is the features and integrations available in the platform. These can include budgeting, in-app payments, security and encryption, a dynamic interface, framework support, and others.

For example, if you want to build an AR application, you will have to consider a platform that supports AR integrations.

5. Time of Development

The last factor to consider is the time it will take to develop the app. It can vary between mobile app development platforms and also based on the features you plan to integrate. However, in general, Android apps take longer to develop due to detailed testing requirements on several devices. On the flip side, iOS apps are only for iPhones and have more streamlined development.

Potential Issues With Mobile Development Platforms

Developing applications with an app development platform is not always sunshine and rainbows. Like any other software, product, or service, app building platforms also have a few problems. Here are the 4 potential issues with mobile development platforms.

1. Lack of Third-Party Support

Some mobile app development platforms do not support third-party integrations, libraries, frameworks, or plugins. It may not mean the end of the world, but it can be a hurdle if you are switching to a different platform with your existing app.

2. Less Support and Help

Although every mobile app development platform has a good customer service line and guides, some don’t offer as much support as others. The issues can be regarding customer service response time, limited community support, limited guides & tutorials, and less number of assets. Due to this, users may not be able to find solutions to issues and bugs easily. As a result, it may hinder their efficiency and productivity.

3. Skill-Level Requirements

Some mobile app development platforms are much harder to use than others. They require professional expertise and in-depth coding knowledge to learn and use them for app building. On the other hand, there are a few app development platforms, like Appy Pie, that are simple, easy, and fun to use. These types of platforms use low-code or no-code development and offer a drag-and-drop feature for easy app design and development.

4. Platform-Specific Development

Another common issue with mobile application platforms is the platform dependency that some have, like Apple Xcode. These platforms are designed to only work on specific devices and design apps for specific devices or operating systems only.

Tips for Using Mobile Application Development Platforms Effectively

Once you have decided which mobile application platform you want to go with, it is time to get started. Here are the five best tips for using mobile application development platforms effectively.

1. Learn the Platform

Getting started with a new platform can seem scary, but that is where our first tip comes in. In order to make things easier for yourself, spend some time getting familiar with the platform. You can watch tutorials or guides and learn about all the features, tools, integrations, and frameworks the platform includes or can support.

2. Utilize Templates

Almost all mobile application platforms offer tons of resources and templates. You should explore the templates list and use whichever you can to make your development easier or better. Also, you can find templates and resources on other platforms, like GitHub, with guides on how to integrate them with your app development platform and framework.

3. Follow Simplicity

Remember, you don’t have to integrate more than necessary features and design elements in a single app. It will only result in an oversized and overburdened app, which is less likely to function properly. Always aim for a simple UI/UX design and features that provide a friendly experience and satisfaction.

4. Use Support Channels

It is not mandatory to use support channels like community, forums, customer service, or guides; you can only use them when you get stuck or face issues. These support channels are meant for developers’ help, and you can use them whenever necessary.

Final Thought on the Importance of Selecting a Suitable Mobile App Development Platform

An ideal mobile app development platform is a mix of powerful capabilities, robust security, strong integrations, diverse features, and multi-channel support. Finding one that meets your needs is not difficult once you start researching the options. However, you must consider the platform you want to build for and your target audience to get the maximum benefit.

Still, the entire mobile app development process can be stressful and complex. To make things easy, it is better to collaborate with a professional and reliable app development company. If you are already hunting for one, look no further; Trango Tech is here for you.

From skilled developers to top-notch technology, we have the perfect recipe to build stunning applications. Whether you want to go native, hybrid, or cross-platform, Trango Tech will help you choose the best app development platform and with tools like iOS emulators, we ensure your app runs smoothly across all devices, helping your business thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions by the community.

Q1. What is the best platform for developing mobile apps?

If you are looking for the best platform to develop mobile apps, we must tell you it all depends on your needs and project goals. However, we will not leave you hanging with just that! Below is a list of development platforms and frameworks for different types of app development. It will help you choose the right one that fits your requirements.

Native App Development Platform

Examples include Google Maps, Artsy, and Spotify.

Android Studio and IntelliJ IDEA for Android app development.

Xcode and AppCode for iOS app development.

Hybrid App Development

Examples include Instagram, Gmail, and Evernote.

Ionic and Apache Cordova are great for Hybrid app development.

Cross-Platform App Development

Examples include Skype, Slack, and Bloomberg.

Flutter, .NET MAUI (previously Xamarin), Kotlin Multiplatform, Ionic, and React Native are the top 5 mobile app development platforms to create cross-platform apps.

No-Code/Low-Code App Development

Examples include Eat Local New York and Mr. Olympia.

BuildFire and Appy Pie are the best no-code platforms for mobile app development, and Zoho Creator is the best low-code platform for app development.

Custom App Development

Although almost every platform lets you create an app according to your needs, the custom development process can be daunting. So, it is best to contact the best custom app development company – Trango Tech.

Q2. How much does an App Development Platform cost?

Here is a mobile app development platform comparison on the basis of cost.

Q3. How much time does it take to develop a Mobile Application?

In general,

• A Simple App takes about 1-3 months.
• An Average App takes about 2-4 months.
• A Complex App takes about 7-10 months.

However, there are multiple factors that can alter the time it takes to develop an app. These include complexity, requirements, expertise, UI/UX needs, backend and frontend development, and third-party integrations.

Q4. What technology stack drives Mobile App Development?

The choice of technology stack depends on the type of app you want to build and the platform you want to build it for. Also, the features and functionalities you want to integrate. Here are some options for app development.

Native App Development

Platform-specific SDKs and programming languages.

For iOS – Xcode and Swift.

For Android – Android Studio, Java, and Kotlin.

Hybrid App Development

HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are used to enable mobile apps to run on multiple platforms.

Cordova, PhoneGap, and Ionic are some good options.

Cross-Platform App Development

A single codebase to build multi-platform apps.

Flutter, React Native, and Xamarin (now .NET MAUI) are popular choices.

Q5. Which app development is easier and more profitable – iOS or Android?

• In terms of development and usage ease, iOS apps are easier and cheaper to design and maintain than Android apps. It is mainly due to their friendly and native software and programming language, i.e., Swift. However, Google’s Android has a much wider market and device support, meaning more downloads.
• In terms of profit, according to a Business of Apps report, Android and iOS app consumer spending reached a staggering $135 billion in 2023, and iOS was responsible for 66% of that. It is mainly due to more rich people preferring Apple devices and spending more on apps.

However, revenue generation comes later, and before that, you have to worry about the app publishing cost. The Apple Developer Program annual fee is US $99, and the enterprise version costs US $299. On the other hand, Google Play Store charges only a one-time fee of US $25, which is much less expensive.

Q6. Why choose Trango Tech for Mobile Application Development?

A lot of technicalities and complex structuring are involved in creating a distinct mobile application, but it is definitely worth the great rewards that come after. Here is how Trango Tech can help you:

• Superior Quality of Work

We don’t just build apps; we create experiences. From initial strategy building to final deployment and maintenance, Trango Tech’s meticulous planning helps brands succeed.

• Excellent Customer Support

Trango Tech believes in building long-term relationships with its clients and customers. Our support team is always available to provide excellent consultation and after-service support.

• Broad Expertise

With a skilled team at the back, Trango Tech provides excellent web and mobile development services along with a complete set of digital marketing and IT assistance.

• Affordable Services

Trango Tech is committed to serving its clientele not just with great services and support but also by offering top-notch services at budget-friendly prices.