Hybrid apps, also known as cross-platform apps, are digital applications that run on both iOS and Android using a single codebase. In the past, this wasn’t possible, and apps had to be built natively for each operating system. Today, developer tools like Flutter and React Native enable the creation of hybrid apps that provide a near-native user experience.

As an app agency specializing in native app development and with a growing interest in Flutter, we aim to explore the pros and cons of both development approaches. The importance of these advantages and disadvantages varies depending on whether you’re a developer, a client, or an end user.

Hybrid vs Native: The Decision Factor

The decision between hybrid and native development often hinges on individual project needs. For clients, the lower cost of hybrid development is a major benefit. Additionally, the shorter development time is a significant advantage. Since hybrid apps are built on a shared codebase, the process is faster compared to native development, where separate code must be written for Android and iOS.

Another clear advantage of hybrid apps is their ability to reach a larger audience with minimal effort. Offering an app on only one platform limits potential users, while hybrid apps make it easier to ensure a consistent experience across both the App Store and Google Play. Users switching between operating systems will recognize a familiar interface.

From a developer’s perspective, hybrid apps simplify maintenance. When updates or changes are needed, they only have to be made once and can then be applied across both platforms.

However, hybrid development does have its drawbacks. When an app requires complex features or high performance, hybrid apps may not be able to meet these demands as effectively as native apps. For apps that require top-tier performance and UX, native development is often the better choice. Another minor downside is the potential delay in accessing new features introduced by Apple or Google, as it can take time for hybrid frameworks to support them.

Choosing the Right Approach

Ultimately, the decision between hybrid and native development comes down to factors like cost, development time, and the app’s specific requirements. In our portfolio, you’ll find examples of both native and hybrid apps, and we’d be happy to provide advice on the best approach for your project.

”Flutter is an open source UI development kit from Google and is based on the Dart programming language. According to the manufacturer, Flutter’s focus is on short development times, fast execution speed and “native user experience”. A Flutter program should be able to run on the following target platforms without major adjustments: WebApp, Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, macOS and Google Fuchsia.”Wikipedia