Mobile Application Frameworks: Native and Flutter
- 1. Session Title: Mobile Application Development
- 2. Learning Outcomes 1. Define mobile application development architecture 2. Identify mobile development frameworks
- 3. Mobile Application Development Architecture • Mobile application development architecture is the structural foundation that guides the design, development, and deployment of mobile applications. • It involves a set of patterns and practices to build apps that meet functional and performance requirements while maintaining scalability, maintainability, and adaptability. • The architecture is typically categorized into several layers and approaches, including the following:
- 4. Presentation Layer • This is the front-end or user interface layer, which users directly interact with. It includes screens, buttons, and animations. Business Logic Layer (BLL) • Also known as the "domain layer," this contains all the business rules and logic that govern the application’s functionality. • This layer manages data processing, app workflow, and decision-making processes. Data Access Layer (DAL) • This layer handles data storage, retrieval, and manipulation. It typically interacts with databases, cloud services, or external data sources. Backend Services Layer • Backend services are external components that mobile apps rely on for essential functions such as data storage, authentication, and analytics. • These services are hosted on servers and communicate with the app via APIs. • Examples of backend services include cloud storage (e.g., Firebase, AWS), authentication (e.g., OAuth), and push notification services.
- 5. • Mobile Development frameworks are software frameworks that provide developers with pre- built tools, libraries and best practices for creating mobile applications more efficiently and effectively. • They provide a foundation of pre- written code and tools that simplify the development process. • Popular frameworks include React Native, Flutter, and Xamarin, each offering unique features tailored to different development • needs. Understanding Mobile Frameworks
- 6. Mobile development frameworks like Flutter and React Native enable developers to build high-quality, cross-platform mobile applications using a single codebase. 1. Flutter Developed By: Google Programming Language: Dart UI Approach: Flutter uses its own widgets to create UI elements, which means it doesn’t rely on platform-native components but instead provides a unified UI structure across platforms. Rendering Engine: Flutter’s rendering engine, Skia, allows it to render directly on both Android and iOS.
- 7. Pros: 1. Consistent UI across platforms. 2. High-performance graphics and animations. 3. Rich libraries and a strong ecosystem, particularly for custom UI. Cons: 4. Larger app size compared to some other frameworks. 5. Limited libraries for some platform-specific features, though this is improving.
- 8. Applications Ideal for apps with 1. heavy custom UI requirements, 2. high-performance graphics, 3. animations, and complex visual designs. Examples include • fintech, media, and ecommerce applications, where consistent user experience across platforms is critical.
- 9. 2. React Native Developed By: Meta (Facebook) Programming Language: JavaScript (or TypeScript) UI Approach: React Native relies on native components for UI, providing a more "native" look and feel, as it bridges JavaScript code to native UI elements. Pros: 1. Native feel and performance, especially for simpler UIs. 2. Strong community support and vast libraries due to its JavaScript foundation. 3. Easy to integrate with existing native apps, which is beneficial for hybrid development. Cons: 4. Can be less performing than Flutter for intensive graphics or complex UIs. 5. Requires third-party modules for certain platform-specific functionalities.
- 10. Applications: 1. Best suited for apps that require high interactivity with platform-native components or have simple UI needs. 2. Ideal for social media, eCommerce, and productivity apps where user experience benefits from native components.
- 11. Different frameworks cater to various development styles and requirements. For instance, React Native focuses on performance and native feel, while Flutter emphasizes a rich UI experience. Understanding these key differences helps developers choose the right framework for their projects. Key Differences Among Frameworks
- 12. While mobile frameworks streamline development, they also present challenges such as performance issues, compatibility, and learning curves. Developers must navigate these challenges to ensure smooth user experiences and app functionality across different devices and platforms. Challenges in Mobile Development
- 13. SESSION REVIEW
- 14. Conclusion and Future Trends In conclusion, understanding mobile application development architecture and frameworks is crucial for developers. As technology evolves, staying updated with future trends and emerging frameworks will enhance development practices and lead to innovative mobile solutions.
- 15. ASSIGNMENT • Describe any two methodologies used in mobile application development.
- 16. Thanks!