At OSKY, we’re all about delivering premium digital experiences, and when it comes to mobile app development, strategy is everything. We understand the importance of both iOS and Android platforms, but we often choose to develop for iOS first. Here’s why this makes sense for us and our clients—and why Android users won’t have to wait too long.
1. Consistency and Control in iOS Development
Our focus is always on creating seamless, top-tier user experiences, and iOS provides an ideal environment for this. Apple’s control over both hardware and software means we deal with fewer device variations, making it easier for our team to focus on refining the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX). With iOS 18, we have a streamlined device landscape, so our apps look and perform consistently across the entire Apple ecosystem.
While Android 15 offers some amazing features, it also comes with the familiar challenge of device fragmentation. With so many different manufacturers, screen sizes, and performance capabilities to consider, Android requires extensive testing and optimisation. That’s why we start with iOS, where we can deliver a perfectly polished app, and then build on that foundation when expanding to Android.
2. Cross-Platform Development with React Native
At OSKY, we believe in using the best tools for the job, which is why we rely on React Native for our mobile app development. This framework allows us to build native apps for both iOS and Android using a single codebase, reducing development time while ensuring the app runs smoothly on both platforms. React Native’s ability to integrate with native iOS and Android components means we can still leverage the unique features of each operating system.
When developing for iOS first, React Native allows us to quickly transition to Android development while maintaining the same level of performance, UX, and design consistency. With this approach, we’re able to prioritise the specific needs of each platform without sacrificing quality.
3. Monetisation and Early ROI with iOS
For many of our clients, the Apple App Store is where the money is. Apps on iOS often generate more revenue through in-app purchases and paid downloads, making it the obvious choice for an initial launch. The streamlined and curated nature of the App Store also makes it easier to stand out. By launching on iOS first, we help our clients see a faster return on investment (ROI) while we continue fine-tuning the app for Android.
That doesn’t mean Android is an afterthought—far from it. In fact, we’re currently in the final stages of development for an Android app that we plan to release very soon. With Android 15’s new features like enhanced multitasking and foldable device support, we’re ensuring our Android apps take full advantage of the platform’s strengths.
4. Swift Development with React Native and Swift for iOS
Our development team is well-versed in Swift, Apple’s powerful programming language. Combined with React Native, we can build fast, robust iOS applications that take full advantage of iOS 18’s new features, including enhanced lock screen widgets, HQ webcam mode, and improved multitasking. Swift’s integration with React Native also means we can ensure the app runs smoothly while maintaining native-level performance for iOS users.
This combination of Swift and React Native ensures we’re developing high-quality apps efficiently. Once we perfect the iOS version, it’s relatively quick and painless to adapt that app for Android using the same codebase in React Native.
5. Preparing for Android 15: The Next Step
While we begin with iOS, we never leave Android behind. In fact, we’re actively working on an Android app that’s slated to be released shortly. With React Native, we can roll out our Android versions more quickly, while taking advantage of the unique features in Android 15, such as HQ webcam mode, edge-to-edge displays, and private space for sensitive apps.
Our Android apps undergo rigorous testing to ensure they perform well across the diverse range of Android devices. By developing on iOS first, we eliminate initial launch challenges, and our Android apps are stronger for it when they reach the market.
6. Android 15 and iOS 18: The Latest and Greatest
As we’re wrapping up development on our latest Android app, we’re excited by all the new possibilities Android 15 offers. The enhanced multitasking, dynamic performance framework, and features geared toward foldable devices have opened up exciting avenues for innovation.
Meanwhile, iOS 18 continues to push the boundaries of what we can do with lock screen widgets, HQ webcam mode, and private space, giving iOS users an enriched experience.
Both platforms are introducing game-changing features, and at OSKY, we’re committed to delivering top-quality apps for both ecosystems.
Conclusion: iOS First, But Android Is Right Behind
At OSKY, our decision to develop for iOS first is based on consistency, early ROI, and the opportunity to streamline the process with React Native. This allows us to deliver a high-quality product on iOS and then seamlessly adapt it for Android, ensuring that both platforms receive the same level of attention to detail and functionality.
By prioritising iOS initially, we capitalise on its more unified ecosystem, which helps reduce variability and testing time. Once the iOS version is perfected, we can leverage React Native’s cross-platform capabilities to efficiently bring the same experience to Android, without compromising on performance or user experience. This approach ultimately allows us to meet client expectations on both platforms while maintaining cost-effectiveness and high standards across the board.
