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Mobile Software Development is basically choosing between two prominent mobile software types, who are leading in mobile applications, Android and iOS.
But why choose between them?
Well strategically it’s a very competitive business decision.
In terms of mobile software development Android has Play store while iOS has App Store, other than these stores there are not many prominent and trustworthy stores which the best mobile app development platforms prefer.
Spoiler alert – I prefer Android over iOS as i am accustomed to it since i have had a mobile phone in my hands, but still my decision won’t be biased.
So going further lets explore why the top mobile app development company prefer Android or iOS.
Why Choosing Between iOS and Android Matters in 2025
When you think about Mobile Operating Software (OS) only two OS will pop up in your head such is their innovation and strength.
Other than these two, one most famous would be Symbian which was also preferred in the early days of Nokia phones.
If you know more famous operating software feel free to comment about them and why you found it good.
Mobile application development software is more about the experience that users like and feel comfortable with.
Choosing the right OS will impact your business significantly consider the following Statistics:
- Global: Android dominates worldwide. In mid-2025 Android held about 74% of global smartphone OS share, iOS about 25%. This is similar to 2020 (Android ~72%, iOS ~27%).
- United States: The situation is inverted in the U.S.. As of June 2025, iOS had ~58.6% market share and Android ~41.1%. iOS has led U.S. smartphone share (often above 50%) since around 2021.
Other than these statistics you should also consider:
- Development Time and Its Cost.
- Performance and Stability of The App.
- User Engagement.
- Monetization
With millions of apps competing for user attention, choosing the right platform—and the right development partner—is critical.
Partnering with expert teams like HyScaler, one of the top mobile app development companies, ensures your app is optimized for the platform that best suits your goals.
Overview of iOS and Android Development Ecosystems
iOS
The first time I used an Apple phone I found it hard to use because of my Android roots.
I can surely say Apple’s iOS is known for its controlled environment and high-security standards.
Developers primarily use Swift or Objective-C within Xcode, Apple’s official IDE.
The platform offers consistency in devices, performance, and design patterns—making it ideal for premium apps and faster updates.
Android
I have used Android all my life, I find it easy to use, easy to interact with and is highly customizable.
It is Powered by Google and is open-source.
Developers use Kotlin or Java with Android Studio, giving them access to a wide range of devices and APIs.
However, device fragmentation can increase testing time and maintenance efforts.
Mobile application development software on Android offers flexibility, while iOS ensures uniformity and polish.
Programming Languages and Development Tools
| Platform | Primary Languages | IDE | Ecosystem |
| iOS | Swift, Objective-C | Xcode | Apple-exclusive |
| Android | Kotlin, Java | Android Studio | Open-source |
Both platforms support cross-platform frameworks like Flutter and React Native, but for high-performance native experiences, top developers still prefer platform-specific tools.
In-fact statistics show Apple reported about 51.8 million registered App Store developers worldwide (2024).
Google does not publish a comparable figure, but the Android ecosystem similarly involves millions of developers worldwide.
Mobile developers often build for both platforms.
In fact, a JetBrains survey found that most mobile-app developers target Android and “more than half” also target iOS.
Roughly half of mobile developers use cross-platform frameworks.
If you’re unsure which tech stack fits your needs, teams like HyScaler offer expert consultation, full-cycle mobile app development services and app making guide.
App Design Guidelines and UI Differences
Design consistency affects not only aesthetics but also usability.
- iOS apps follow Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines, promoting clarity, deference, and depth. The result? Sleek, intuitive interfaces across all Apple devices.
- Android apps are built using Material Design, which emphasises motion, bold colours, and flexible layouts adaptable to various screens.
While iOS limits design variability, Android offers more freedom—both with pros and cons depending on your branding and UX goals.
Market Share and User Demographics
Understanding your audience is key in mobile software development.
- Android holds the lion’s share globally—over 70%—with strongholds in Asia, Africa, and South America.
- iOS, though smaller in market share, dominates in North America, Europe, and affluent user bases.
Figures from SensorTower show: Global mobile app consumer spending from 2020 to 2030 (combined iOS App Store + Google Play actual and forecast), the total app store revenue reached ~$150.1B in 2024 and is projected to hit ~$288B by 2030.
Revenue Split: Apple’s App Store consistently generates far more revenue than Google Play.
For example, in Q1 2024 App Store consumer spend was $24.6 billion versus $11.2 billion on Google Play (roughly a 69% to 31% split).
AppleInsider confirms iOS revenue grew 11.5% to $24.6B (Q1 2024) while Android grew only 5.3% to $11.2B.
Worldwide, apps & games together earned about $150B in 2024; most of that growth came from iOS.
The US is the largest single market – in 2024 the U.S. App Store alone accounted for $406 billion in developer billings/sales ,reflecting both Apple’s high U.S. market share and affluent user base.
So if you’re aiming for global reach, Android is king. For monetisation via in-app purchases or subscriptions, iOS often proves more lucrative.
App Store Policies and Approval Process
iOS (Apple App Store)
Apple maintains strict review guidelines. Apps typically undergo a 1–3 day approval process and are scrutinized for privacy, security, and UI consistency.
Android (Google Play)
Google’s review is faster—often just a few hours. However, the looser policy can result in more competition and quality variation.
These differences affect your go-to-market strategy. Top mobile app development companies like HyScaler can guide you through these processes, minimizing delays and ensuring compliance.
Final Thoughts
In the iOS vs Android debate, there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
The best choice depends on your audience, goals, and budget.
From programming tools to app store approval processes, each platform offers unique advantages and challenges.
If you’re planning to build a next-gen app and need help navigating the best mobile app development platform, connect with HyScaler—one of the industry’s most trusted names in mobile software development.
Our expertise spans both platforms, helping businesses launch scalable, secure, and high-performing mobile apps.
Want tailored advice for your app idea? Explore mobile app solutions with HyScaler
FAQs
Which software is best, iOS or Android?
It depends on your business goals. If you’re targeting premium users and faster ROI, iOS might be ideal. For global scale and customization, Android offers more flexibility.
What is the importance of Android OS?
Android OS is crucial for reaching the broadest audience possible. Its open-source architecture makes it a favorite in mobile app development for innovation, adaptability, and device variety.
What is the key difference between iOS and Android?
iOS is a closed, uniform ecosystem focused on control and performance. Android is open and customizable, but more fragmented.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of iOS vs Android?
1. iOS Pros
– Higher revenue per user
– Better security and privacy
– Faster updates across devices
2. iOS Cons
– More expensive development
– Closed ecosystem
3. Android Pros
– Greater market share
– Flexible and open-source
– Lower barrier to entry
4. Android Cons
– Fragmentation challenges
– Longer QA cycles
Why do people prefer iOS over Android?
People often choose iOS for its seamless ecosystem, smooth updates, clean UI, and strong privacy policies. It’s the preferred platform in enterprise and premium app categories.