Hybrid App Framework-A Complete Guide

The Internet is booming and smartphones and tablets are spreading at a rapid pace. It is not surprising that the need for mobile apps is also growing. Hundreds of new apps are already appearing every month – and the trend is rising. So that the apps do not have to be completely programmed by hand and to help the developer at work, there are a large number of frameworks for hybrid cross-platform app development. These are an absolute must for every mobile developer.

However, the selection of frameworks is very large and making the right decision can sometimes be very difficult. In this blog, we have therefore put together the most important information about the Mobile App Frameworks for you. In addition, we will introduce you to the top ten frameworks to help you make your choice.

Providers		Target Group	Costs	Particularities
1- Ionic		Projects Of All Sizes	0 – 150 EUR	Easy Handling
2- PhoneGap		Smaller, Simple Apps	Open Source	Additional Components Subject To A Charge
3 –  AppceleratorTitanium		Demanding Cross-Platform Projects	Depending On The Project	0 – 100+ EUR
4- ReactNative		Cross-Platform Projects Of All Sizes	Open Source	Many Functions
5- Xamarine		Small To Large Projects	Depending On The Project	Leader Outside Enterprise
6- SenchaTouch		Complex Enterprise Projects	EUR 4000 – 9000	Enterprise Leader
7- OnsenUI		Cross-Platform Projects Of All Sizes	Open Source	Commercial Use Free Of Charge
8- famo.us		Small To Medium-Sized Projects	Open Source	Completely Free
9- Framework		Simple To Medium-Sized Projects	Open Source	Native Design
10- IntelXDK		Projects Of All Sizes	Open Source	Drag & Drop Function

What Is a Mobile App Framework?

A mobile app framework is software or a software framework that is used for the development of mobile apps. If you already have experience with a content management system, such as WordPress or with an online shop software such as Magento, then you already have an idea of ​​how a framework works.

Just as WordPress creates the complete basic structure of a website without a lot of programming knowledge or special expertise, so a mobile app framework creates such a structure for the mobile app. The framework creates a basic app, in which the standard functions are already available. You then only have to insert the desired content, functions, images, etc. The goal is to simplify the work of developers by eliminating the need to write many lines of code that are standard in a mobile app. In addition, many things can be done via a graphical interface. Again, you can usually do without writing lengthy code.

Frameworks are also comparable to integrated development interfaces (IDE), which developers often use for programming. A well-known example is NetBeans or Eclipse.

How Does a Mobile App Framework for Hybrid Cross-Platform Development Work?

A mobile app framework for hybrid cross-platform development works in an ingeniously simple way. Basically, the framework is nothing more than a collection of code, pages and scripts that are packaged in a visually appealing user interface. Similar to a construction kit or a text editor, you can make many of the required tasks and changes with simple clicks. For example, if you create a new project for an app with the framework, it already contains all the important scripts, basic functions such as closing the app, etc. You then only have to fill the app with content and adapt it to your needs.

In terms of how it works, a mobile app framework does not differ from other frameworks, such as Bootstrap or the WordPress Content Management System – which, by the way, is also nothing more than a framework.

Most frameworks are based on PHP, but there are also frameworks that are based on other programming languages, such as Ruby or Java. The aim of the framework for the development of hybrid cross-platform apps is to relieve you as a developer of many recurring and repetitive tasks and thus make your work easier.

The Advantages of a Mobile App Framework

The advantages of a mobile app framework were briefly mentioned above. You get a complete development environment in which many basic functions and scripts are already available. This saves you from having to write many lines of code that are always available in a mobile app. Basically, you get a finished app that you only have to adapt and add the desired functions.

In addition, you have another advantage with a mobile app framework. Since the framework already provides many scripts and basic functions, the risk of errors that can otherwise creep in when writing the code is reduced. All in all, you are more efficient at work with a mobile app framework and can also work much more quickly.

Especially if you regularly develop mobile apps for smartphones and tablets, you should not do without a framework.

The Disadvantages of a Mobile App Framework

However, there are some disadvantages that you should be aware of when using mobile frameworks. For example, you are mostly dependent on the functions supported by the framework. Each framework offers different possibilities and functions that you should know exactly before choosing. If functions are missing, they can sometimes be easily inserted with a little specialist knowledge and programming knowledge. However, this is not always the case.

There are also frameworks that specialize in special platforms such as iOS. This means that you may have to work with several frameworks to be able to do justice to all mobile devices. In addition, many good frameworks for mobile app development are chargeable. This means that you have to accept paying for the software monthly or annually. However, the costs are usually worth the labor saving, so that in most cases, especially if you develop regularly, the purchase is still worthwhile.

It is important that before you decide on a framework, you inform yourself about this information and if necessary compare other options. Otherwise, you may experience a nasty surprise later.

For Whom Is a Hybrid Mobile App Framework Suitable?

A mobile app framework for hybrid cross-platform development is aimed primarily at professional developers who develop regular hybrid applications for mobile devices. The reason for this is, among other things, the high costs that some frameworks entail. On the other hand, a framework can also be used for occasional app development. It usually makes the job much easier. The prerequisite is that you are ready to invest in a framework.

Of course, it is also important that you have the appropriate programming knowledge. A mobile app framework for cross-platform development can make your work easier with pre-built scripts and codes. However, you still need to understand and adapt the code and scripts to use the framework successfully. Otherwise you end up quickly in a one-way street with no way out. A framework cannot and should not replace sound programming knowledge. The only goal is to make your work as a developer easier.

Mobile App Frameworks for Hybrid Cross-Platform Development – What Should You Pay Attention to?

There is a large selection of mobile app frameworks that are suitable for hybrid cross-platform development. Many of these frameworks have different options, focuses and functions. There are also some mobile app frameworks that are aimed in particular at a specific platform. It is therefore all the more important that you inform yourself in advance and compare the different options. We present the ten best mobile app frameworks for the hybrid cross-platform in more detail later in this article.

As a rule, you should make sure that the framework is a cross-platform framework. Exceptions are only appropriate if you really only want to develop exclusively for a very specific platform, which usually makes no sense, since you would do without a large target group. You should also look at the price. Most professional mobile app frameworks for cross-platform development are chargeable. However, they differ significantly in terms of costs, as well as in terms of payment. While some frameworks are free, you have to pay monthly or annual fees for others. For other mobile app frameworks, on the other hand, you only have to make a one-time payment.

How Much Does a Hybrid Mobile App Framework Cost?

The costs for a mobile app framework for hybrid cross-platform development cannot be determined in a blanket manner. Rather, the price depends on the desired platform, the functions and the payment options available. For example, some mobile app frameworks are available free of charge. For other frameworks, however, you have to make a one-time payment. Still other mobile app frameworks, however, charge a subscription fee monthly or annually.

All systems have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, there are very good mobile app frameworks for hybrid cross-platform development. However, compared to paid versions, these are usually not as functional or there are restrictions that make it necessary, for example, to display advertising or prohibit commercial use. Frameworks, on the other hand, which you can use for a one-off payment, often have the full range of functions. However, it is important to check whether updates or newer versions are included in the price. In most cases, you will have to accept additional costs or an annual fee for additional updates. Subscription solutions such as Xamarin, on the other hand, cost money every month. However, new versions and updates, etc. are included, so that you save the costs for additional support and updates, etc. You can also save additional costs for a subscription, for example by paying it semi-annually or annually. In these cases, many providers give you discounts of up to 20%.

You have to decide for yourself which solution works best for you and which variant suits you. A thorough comparison, not only of the price, but also of the functions and scope of services can be an important aid. In any case, you should be sure before you make the decision, as switching to a new framework could be difficult later and additional costs may arise.