Mobile app development

1. Mobile App
Development (SENG-
3111)
INSTRUCTOR: MUHAMMAD ZOHAIB ANWAR
FACULTY OF COMPUTING
THE ISLAMIA UNIVERSITY OF BAHAWALPUR

2. What is Mobile App ?
 Definition: A mobile app is a software application designed to run on a mobile
device like a smartphone or tablet. These apps are designed to perform a range
of functions, from entertainment to communication and productivity.
 Types of Mobile Apps:
 Native Apps: Installed directly on the device, using platform-specific features (e.g., iOS,
Android).
 Web Apps: Accessed via a web browser and are not installed directly (e.g., Google Docs).
 Hybrid Apps: Combines elements of both native and web apps.
 Importance in Modern Society: Mobile apps have revolutionized how we interact
with technology and each other. From social media apps like Facebook to
productivity apps like Google Drive, they impact almost every part of our daily
lives.

3. The Evolution of Mobile Apps
 The History:
 Feature Phones (1990s-2000s): Basic apps like calendars and calculators; limited mobile
internet capabilities.
 Smartphones (2007 - Present): Introduction of the iPhone in 2007 led to the App Store and
Google Play, revolutionizing mobile app development.
 App Ecosystem: The launch of app stores allowed developers to distribute their apps
globally, creating a multi-billion-dollar mobile app industry.
 Milestones:
 2008: Apple App Store launched, featuring the first mobile apps.
 2010: Android Market (now Google Play) launched.
 Now: Over 2 million apps available in both stores, with apps for almost every possible
purpose.

4. Why Do We Use Mobile Apps?
 · Communication: Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Snapchat
allow us to stay connected with friends and family instantly, regardless of
distance.
 · Entertainment: Streaming platforms such as Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube
provide entertainment on-demand, offering video, music, and gaming
experiences.
 · Productivity: Apps like Microsoft Office, Trello, and Google Drive help
individuals and businesses manage tasks, projects, and documents efficiently.
 · Convenience: Services like Uber and Airbnb, which make everyday tasks like
transportation and travel booking easier, all through an app on your phone.
 · Health & Fitness: Apps such as MyFitnessPal and Fitbit track physical activity,
offer workouts, and help manage personal health.

5. Categories of Mobile Apps
 Native Apps:
 Developed for a specific platform (iOS, Android).
 Examples: Instagram (iOS), WhatsApp (Android).
 Pros: Best performance, use of device features (camera, GPS).
 Web Apps:
 Accessed via a browser, works across all platforms.
 Examples: Google Docs, Twitter, LinkedIn.
 Pros: Accessible from any device with a web browser.
 Hybrid Apps:
 A combination of both native and web apps.
 Examples: Facebook, Instagram (a mix of features accessible via the web and mobile).
 Pros: Easier and quicker to develop across platforms.

6. Examples of Mobile Apps
 Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.
 Entertainment: Netflix, YouTube, Spotify.
 Communication: WhatsApp, Skype, Messenger.
 Productivity: Google Drive, Microsoft Office, Trello.
 Shopping: Amazon, eBay, AliExpress.
 Finance: PayPal, Mint, Revolut.

7. Mobile Apps vs Desktop Software
 User Experience:
 Mobile apps are designed for touch screens and small form factors.
 Desktop software typically offers more powerful features but requires a mouse
and keyboard.
 Usability:
 Mobile apps provide convenience on the go, while desktop software is best for
heavy tasks or multitasking.
 Accessibility:
 Mobile apps are portable, accessible from anywhere, and provide notifications,
while desktop apps are more restricted to specific locations.

8. Group Discussion Instructions
 Activity: “What apps do you use and why?”
 Each participant will share the mobile apps they use regularly.
 Discuss the reasons behind the app choices (e.g., ease of use,
time-saving, productivity).
 Consider categories like communication, entertainment,
productivity, etc.

9. What Makes an App Popular?
 Key Features:
 User Experience (UX): Simple, intuitive interface, fast and responsive.
 Utility: Offers a clear function or solves a specific problem.
 Performance: Fast load times, minimal crashes.
 Marketing: Effective use of app store optimization, social media, and word of
mouth.
 Case Study: WhatsApp's simple yet effective communication platform
became popular by focusing on the user experience and solving the
problem of expensive international communication.

10. Storytelling in App Design
 What is Storytelling in App Design?
 Storytelling involves creating an experience where the user feels engaged and
emotionally connected to the app. It’s about guiding users through a journey rather
than just providing functions.
 Importance:
 Makes apps more engaging.
 Helps users understand how to use the app intuitively.
 Builds a connection between the user and the app.
 Example: Instagram’s onboarding process, guiding users through the features
while adding personal touches, creating a story of social interaction and content
sharing.

11. Problem-Solving Apps
 How Apps Solve Problems:
 Apps are created to solve specific problems. For example, Uber provides an
easy and fast way to get a ride, while Google Maps helps navigate unfamiliar
places.
 Apps like Evernote help people stay organized, and Headspace solves the
problem of mindfulness and stress reduction.
 Case studies
 Uber – Solving the Problem of Transportation
 Google Maps – Solving the Problem of Navigation
 Evernote – Solving the Problem of Organization and Note-Taking

12. Mint – Solving the Problem of Personal
Finance Management
 Problem: Managing personal finances, tracking expenses, budgeting, and saving can be
complex and overwhelming for many people. Without proper tools, it’s easy to lose track of
spending, leading to financial stress or poor decision-making.
 Solution:
Mint is a personal finance management app that consolidates all of a user's financial information
in one place. It tracks expenses, categorizes spending, and helps users set and stick to budgets.
Additionally, Mint provides financial insights and tips to help users make informed decisions about
saving and investing.
 Key Features of Mint:
 Expense Tracking: Automatically categorizes expenses based on bank transactions.
 Budgeting: Users can set monthly budgets and track progress.
 Bill Reminders: Sends alerts for upcoming bills and payment due dates.
 Credit Score Monitoring: Provides users with free credit score updates and tips to improve credit.
 Impact: Mint solves the problem of managing personal finances by providing a simple, easy-to-
use app that offers insights, budgeting tools, and financial education. It helps users stay on top of
their spending and make better financial decisions.

13. The Future of Mobile Apps
 Trends:
 Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI in apps for personalized recommendations,
chatbots, and predictive typing.
 Augmented Reality (AR): Apps that combine the physical and digital world
(e.g., Pokémon GO, IKEA Place).
 Internet of Things (IoT): Apps that control smart home devices (e.g., Google
Home, Amazon Alexa).
 Emerging Apps: Blockchain apps, virtual reality experiences, and apps that
integrate seamlessly with smart devices.

14. The Mobile App Ecosystem
 App Stores:
 Apple App Store & Google Play Store: Major platforms where apps are published and downloaded.
 Microsoft Store: A smaller platform for Windows apps.
 Other App Stores: Emerging regional stores like the Amazon Appstore or Huawei AppGallery.
 Developers:
 Individuals & Teams: Developers creating apps, either independently or as part of a company.
 Cross-platform Tools: Frameworks like Flutter and React Native for building apps that work on both iOS and
Android.
 Users:
 End Users: The people who download and use apps.
 Beta Testers: Users who help test apps before full release.
 Businesses:
 Enterprises: Companies creating apps for internal use (e.g., employee tools).
 Consumer Apps: Businesses creating apps for customers (e.g., shopping, entertainment).

15. Mobile App Platforms
 iOS:
 Developed by Apple, iOS powers iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch devices.
 Known for its closed ecosystem, strict app approval process, and seamless integration with Apple
hardware and software.
 Android:
 Developed by Google, Android is an open-source platform used by a wide range of
manufacturers like Samsung, Google, and Huawei.
 Offers flexibility for customization and more device variety, but with more fragmentation in
software versions.
 Cross-Platform Development:
 Tools like Flutter, React Native, and Xamarin allow developers to write a single codebase that
works on both iOS and Android.
 These tools help reduce development time and cost but may face limitations in utilizing platform-
specific features.

16. Benefits of Mobile Apps for Businesses
 Revenue Generation:
 Direct Sales: Apps sell products/services directly, increasing sales.
 In-App Purchases & Subscriptions: Extra content or recurring payments generate ongoing revenue.
 Ad Revenue: Ads within apps (e.g., Google AdMob) add another income stream.
 Customer Engagement:
 Push Notifications: Personalized alerts encourage user interaction.
 Loyalty Programs & Personalization: Reward repeat customers and offer tailored content to boost engagement.
 Brand Loyalty:
 Easy Access & Updates: Quick access and regular improvements enhance user satisfaction.
 Customer Support & Offline Access: In-app support and offline capabilities deepen brand connection.
 Data Collection & Insights:
 Apps collect data to refine strategies and improve user experiences.

17. Real-World Application
 Healthcare: Apps like MyFitnessPal and Fitbit help users track health and
fitness goals, monitor activity, and improve overall well-being.
 Finance: Apps like Mint and PayPal make budgeting, managing finances,
and transactions easier, providing users with real-time insights.
 Education: Apps like Duolingo and Khan Academy are revolutionizing
learning by offering accessible and interactive ways to gain knowledge.
 Retail: Apps like Amazon and eBay allow users to shop easily, track deliveries,
and access personalized recommendations.
 Entertainment: Streaming apps like Netflix and Spotify provide on-demand
access to movies, shows, music, and podcasts, enhancing user experiences.

18. Recap and Key Takeaways
 Mobile apps are essential tools for daily life, with a variety of
functions ranging from communication to entertainment.
 There are different types of mobile apps: native, web, and
hybrid.
 Popular apps focus on user experience, solving problems,
and leveraging marketing strategies.
 The future of mobile apps includes AI, AR, IoT, and
blockchain.

19. Group Activity Instructions
 Activity: Discuss "What apps do you use and why?"
 Share your favorite apps, discuss their features, and understand why
people choose these apps over others.
 Consider the utility, user experience, and accessibility of the apps
discussed.

20. Closing Thoughts and Next Week’s
Preview
 Closing: Understanding what mobile apps are and why
they matter is key to starting your development journey.
 Next Week’s Preview: We will explore "Types of Apps" –
diving into native, web, and hybrid apps, and how they
differ in terms of performance, design, and usage.

21. Thank You