Cloud computing is an advanced technology that has impacted mobile app development substantially.
With the evolving technology era, cloud-based mobile app development is gaining traction.
That’s because it offers better security of data, smart geolocation features and smooth integration of databases to name a few of its features.
In this article, we’ll discuss seven different ways in which the introduction of cloud computing has impacted mobile app development. But first, let’s do a quick recap of what it is.
What Is Mobile Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the availability of software, storage, databases, and more computing resources over the internet.
Mobile cloud computing (MCC) is an approach where app developers design, store and operate the app on the cloud. This way, you’re not restricted to developing apps specifically for certain operating systems or according to the internal storage of modern smartphones.
It might also be a cheaper way to develop apps since you don’t have to invest in hardware and upgrade it with time.
What are seven ways in which cloud computing is changing mobile app development?
Now onto the meat of the matter. Here are the different ways cloud computing has changed the development of mobile apps:
1. No Need to Develop Apps for Different Platforms
App developers no longer need to design apps for specific operating systems such as Android or iOS when developing on the cloud.
That’s because mobile cloud computing has increased platform compatibility since the software now lives in the cloud and not on a specific device.
Also, users don’t have to install mobile apps anymore which makes the cloud a win-win for both the users and the app developers.
2. Better Scalability On The Cloud
While scaling apps, a big concern for developers is a decline in performance. If they keep the same amount of storage or the same number of servers, they have to compromise on performance.
But that’s not a worry with mobile cloud development since cloud data centres are regularly updated to the latest tech. So you’ll always get the fastest performing apps at a good price.
Also, since your users don’t have to install the app, you can make the changes in the cloud and it’ll automatically update for your users the next time they open the app.
And yes, we realise that you can do something similar with native apps built the old-fashioned way, but the level of code complexity and related costs and much less with cloud-based apps.
3. Long Term App Maintenance Is Easier With Cloud Computing
If you plan on scaling your app by adding more features later, then building your app on the cloud might be the best way to go.
That’s because, on the cloud, it’s easier to add more storage instantly, archive data, synchronise files across servers or clouds and improve performance in a cost-effective way.
This can take the load off the app maintenance team and give you the flexibility to make whatever changes you need in your app without worrying about buying more servers.
4. Reduced Development Time
Since you don’t have to develop the mobile app for different platforms, you can save significant time during development.
This is a game-changer for startups and small businesses that need to develop user-friendly apps fast.
Cloud computing has decreased the time to market for apps unlike we’ve seen before with the launch of different frameworks.
That’s because when on the cloud, you can instantly collaborate rather than sending files back and forth and self-provision DevOps. According to one survey, it can reduce development time by approximately 11.6%.
5. Easy Access for Remote Developers
Talent isn’t restricted to one place, and mobile cloud computing has made it easy for startups to hire developers from across the globe.
For instance, a web designer from Newcastle can easily collaborate with app developers in Houston because of the cloud.
This has changed the web development landscape by giving clients the freedom to choose who they want to work with, without being linked to geographical locations.
It also eases the development process for programmers because they can access the code from anywhere if they have the login key.
That means developers can instantly make changes in the app because they don’t have to physically come to a specific location.
Remote working has also given a boost to the culture of outsourcing app development which has drastically changed the way we build mobile apps.
Now, front end, backend and design teams can wireframe the app together then go on to work on their individual tasks.
6. No More Losing Progress Or Data
Since everything is stored on the cloud, you don’t have to worry about losing progress because of a hardware malfunction or server going down.
Most cloud service providers have efficient backup systems to help recover data quickly. This excellent data recovery is a great feature for both the app developers and the users.
You can further bulletproof your development by using multiple clouds so your data is spread over multiple service providers.
7. Readymade Software and Predefined Code
For developers that don’t need highly sophisticated apps, some cloud service providers offer standardised solutions for common features such as payroll applications, email or newsletters lists, subscribers log in and ERP systems.
That can make your job easier while also freeing you up to work on more technical features that are unique to the app you’re developing.
Final Words
Mobile cloud computing is the future. That’s not only great for the end-users of the app but also amazing for the developers because of all the features it offers.
Now is the time to get to know why you should be using the cloud and jump on the bandwagon.
The points we’ve covered in this article are only a few of the many reasons how cloud computing is revolutionising the app development process. There’s a lot more to discover. But you’ll have to start using the cloud for that.
