Cross platform development using Xamarin technology is increasingly becoming popular among app creators and multi-platform developers who are looking for an all-in-one mobile app development platform that offers the best of worlds. While the tech world may continue to debate on whether it is easier to use Objective C or Java, a number of developers are shifting over to Xamarin for the cross platform benefits it offers. Read on to know what’s so striking about Xamarin:
Combines two unique platforms – iOS, Android: There are two separate .NET classes that developers can make use of – one for iOS and the other for Android projects. Xamarin doesn’t try to bridge the gap between the distinct UI and SDK of iOS or Android. Instead, the distinctive features of both are used in an optimal manner by the core logic of Xamarin.
Combines two unique platforms – iOS, Android: There are two separate .NET classes that developers can make use of – one for iOS and the other for Android projects. Xamarin doesn’t try to bridge the gap between the distinct UI and SDK of iOS or Android. Instead, the distinctive features of both are used in an optimal manner by the core logic of Xamarin.
No coding overload: In contrast to other languages such as Java, Xamarin doesn’t involve extensive or laborious coding. This is because C# doesn’t involve as much typing as other programming languages. Since the coding is succinct and streamlined, there are fewer opportunities for developers to make mistakes.
Delivers native applications: A complete support for native apps is one of the greatest plus points of Xamarin. There exists a vast range of APIs (application programming interfaces) that help developers keep platform specific appearances while using shared code. This dispels the myth that Java or Objective C are better choices than C# for native app creation.
Library support: Portable class libraries are present in Xamarin. These .NET libraries can be used to code iOS, Android or Windows apps. Developers are not forced to build the programs from scratch. In the past, some libraries would not work for Android or iOS projects, but this is not the case anymore.
Shorter learning curve: Most developers are experts in C#/.NET programming. In case of Xamarin, experts just need to learn one language C# instead of spending a long time in trying to master Objective C, Swift or Java.
Lean app development cycle: Shared code is another important benefit of Xamarin. Apart from native UI, the manner in which app logic is shared across various platforms makes Xamarin a must-have for developers. Whether it is support for native SDK of almost all app development platforms or the app logic for UI, 80% of the codes can be reused across operating systems. This not only saves time but also minimizes room for errors to creep in.
Faster testing: In line with the points stated above, when a limited/single line of code (in C#) needs to examined by a mobile app tester, the testing will be more comprehensive and free of mistakes. The time spent on the entire testing procedure will also be short. Therefore, Xamarin helps enterprises in maintaining service quality even if there’s a time crunch. Xamarin also provides real-time testing on devices while ensuring creating bug-free mobile apps. The real-time testing feature is available on Xamarin TestCloud that makes it possible for any Android or iOS app to be tested simultaneously on a large number of devices. Fragmentation and object-based testing, both are possible in Xamarin.
Xamarin.iOS: Xamarin.Android functions with JIT (just-in-time) and Xamarin.iOS works with AOT (ahead-of-time) compiler system. Also, the entire SDK of the iOS platform can be included into C#. Similarly, the in-built apps in Xamarin.iOS can be compiled on the ARM assembly code. Hence, devising apps in Xamarin specifically for Apple devices is easier than using Objective C.
Nevertheless, if enterprises are hiring Xamarin developers to build robust cross-platform apps, they can have a larger share of pie! A shared coding environment, integration of two platform leaders and a shorter T2M (time-to-market) is what makes Xamarin an attractive choice. So, for those who are keen on cross-platform app development – Xamarin stands out for its user friendliness and convenience.
Have you tried Xamarin yet? What are some of the other enterprise application development advantages of Xamarin ?
Let us know in the comments below.
Delivers native applications: A complete support for native apps is one of the greatest plus points of Xamarin. There exists a vast range of APIs (application programming interfaces) that help developers keep platform specific appearances while using shared code. This dispels the myth that Java or Objective C are better choices than C# for native app creation.
Library support: Portable class libraries are present in Xamarin. These .NET libraries can be used to code iOS, Android or Windows apps. Developers are not forced to build the programs from scratch. In the past, some libraries would not work for Android or iOS projects, but this is not the case anymore.
Shorter learning curve: Most developers are experts in C#/.NET programming. In case of Xamarin, experts just need to learn one language C# instead of spending a long time in trying to master Objective C, Swift or Java.
Lean app development cycle: Shared code is another important benefit of Xamarin. Apart from native UI, the manner in which app logic is shared across various platforms makes Xamarin a must-have for developers. Whether it is support for native SDK of almost all app development platforms or the app logic for UI, 80% of the codes can be reused across operating systems. This not only saves time but also minimizes room for errors to creep in.
Faster testing: In line with the points stated above, when a limited/single line of code (in C#) needs to examined by a mobile app tester, the testing will be more comprehensive and free of mistakes. The time spent on the entire testing procedure will also be short. Therefore, Xamarin helps enterprises in maintaining service quality even if there’s a time crunch. Xamarin also provides real-time testing on devices while ensuring creating bug-free mobile apps. The real-time testing feature is available on Xamarin TestCloud that makes it possible for any Android or iOS app to be tested simultaneously on a large number of devices. Fragmentation and object-based testing, both are possible in Xamarin.
Xamarin.iOS: Xamarin.Android functions with JIT (just-in-time) and Xamarin.iOS works with AOT (ahead-of-time) compiler system. Also, the entire SDK of the iOS platform can be included into C#. Similarly, the in-built apps in Xamarin.iOS can be compiled on the ARM assembly code. Hence, devising apps in Xamarin specifically for Apple devices is easier than using Objective C.
Nevertheless, if enterprises are hiring Xamarin developers to build robust cross-platform apps, they can have a larger share of pie! A shared coding environment, integration of two platform leaders and a shorter T2M (time-to-market) is what makes Xamarin an attractive choice. So, for those who are keen on cross-platform app development – Xamarin stands out for its user friendliness and convenience.
Have you tried Xamarin yet? What are some of the other enterprise application development advantages of Xamarin ?
Let us know in the comments below.