The experts for app development
The development of a successful app starts with more than just an idea – it requires a precise strategy and detailed planning. We accompany you step by step: First, we analyse whether a native app or a cross-platform app is the best choice for your requirements. We then select the ideal app development framework to technically realise your vision. In the end, your app is created with consistent design and experienced programming – customised and ready to be launched on the market.
What types of applications are there?
As an app agency, we differentiate between four main types of apps: cross-platform apps (sometimes also called hybrid apps) that are developed for iOS, Android and/or web, native apps that are written for either Android or iOS only, web apps that run in a device's browser and therefore do not need to be installed, and progressive web apps (PWAs) that are structured similarly to web apps but, unlike web apps, can also be used offline.
- Cross-platform apps vs native apps: When is which approach a better fit?
- Native app vs web app: a comparison with examples
- What are hybrid apps?
- Progressive web apps: Are websites the better apps?
Create a native or cross-platform app?
Native apps are mobile apps that are written specifically for one operating system, i.e. iOS or Android. Cross-platform apps, on the other hand, are only developed with a cross-platform code base. Our article Native vs cross-platform apps lists the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.
How do you develop an Android app?
Android apps are usually programmed with Android Studio and Kotlin. This enables comprehensive, direct control over device interfaces and the use of Google services such as Google Maps or Firebase.
How do you develop an iOS app?
An iOS app is developed using Xcode or Swift. This allows good integration with Apple-specific functions such as Face ID, Siri or Apple Pay and, of course, optimum performance on iPhones and other iOS devices.
How do you develop a cross-platform app?
Cross-platform frameworks such as Flutter and React Native allow parallel development for iOS and Android with a single code base, thus reducing development time and costs. Performance differences compared to native apps are usually minimal.
Which app programming languages are available?
There are numerous widely used programming languages for developing apps. The selection of the most suitable platform depends on the target platform (Android, iOS, Web?), desired features and technical requirements (Which programming language is best suited to my app project?).
- React Native with Expo: Advantages of app development
- Flutter vs. React Native: Differences between the two frameworks
- React Native or Ionic?: Advantages and disadvantages of both frameworks explained
- Next.js Rendering Strategies: SSR, SSG, and ISR Compared
React Native
A cross-platform framework developed by Meta. In React Native, a ‘bridge’ is used to utilise native iOS and Android components via JavaScript code.
Flutter
A cross-platform framework developed by Google. Flutter is based on the Dart programming language. Just like React Native, it offers fast, native performance.
Next.js
Next.js is a JavaScript framework. It is ideal for server-side applications and is often used to create web apps (often in conjunction with React).
Ionic
Ionic uses HTML, CSS and JavaScript to create cross-platform mobile apps. Apps created with Ionic have a user experience that is very similar to that of native apps.
Kotlin
A native development framework for Android development. Kotlin is a very mature, high-performance and secure programming language.
Swift
Apple's programming language for iOS and macOS. Ideal for performance-heavy iPhone applications in particular.
How do you develop an – All steps
Developing a good app is a complex process. As with any software development project, it is important to start with clear goals and then follow a clearly structured plan. With an agile methodology, this does not rule out the possibility of making adjustments during app programming. Read more about this in this article on app development.
App idea & consulting
In order to create an optimal user experience, it is important to develop a customised mobile or web app solution. At the start of the project, we therefore work with you to create a precise roadmap that summarises the technical requirements, desired app functionality and your overarching goals.
Proof of concept
To ensure that your app project can be implemented smoothly, we create a proof of concept (PoC) - an interactive app prototype. This helps to assess whether the requirements for your app can be implemented technically and whether the user experience is coherent and intuitive.
App UI/UX Design
An intuitive UX and UI design is a decisive success factor both for the initial release of your app and for long-term user loyalty. When designing apps, we draw on our experience from more than 100 successfully implemented app projects.
Android & iOS app development
Depending on the usage requirements of an app, it is developed as a cross-platform, web app, PWA or native app. As an experienced app agency, we specialise in quickly developing uniform and scalable apps with reliable performance for multiple operating systems such as iOS and Android.
User Testing & Prototypes
User tests, software and usability testing help to ensure smooth app utilisation. We distribute prototypes via a beta distribution service such as Microsoft App Centre, Apple Testflight or Google Play Beta.
App distribution & -updates
We can submit your new app to the Google Play and Apple App Store for you. For our B2B corporate customers, we also offer app launch via MDM (Mobile Device Management). With regular updates, we ensure that new features become available and that the apps remain technically up to date.
Why app development with Hybrid Heroes?
Born in Berlin
Berlin is undisputedly THE city of tech talent in Germany. A fact that benefits us and you!
25+ Heroes
Our cross-functional team consists of many creative minds and experts from different departments. What we always have in common: Our enjoyment of teamwork, our passion for tech and design and our willingness to keep learning new things.
9 years of experience
Since 2015, we have successfully implemented over 100 apps for corporations, medium-sized companies, start-ups and research institutions.
Long-term client relationships
Over many years, we have gained the trust of numerous clients and maintain long-term, trusting partnerships.
Cross-Platform
We were one of the first agencies to specialize in cross-platform app development, using innovative app development frameworks to create apps for iOS, Android or browser platforms.
No outsourcing or offshoring
Our mantra is: if it says Hybrid Heroes on it, it's only Hybrid Heroes inside.
We build applications that inspire
Mobile app development – how to get started
Discovery Call
In a free 30–60 minute discovery call, we get to know each other and discuss the basic framework conditions and requirements for your desired app:
- What stage of planning are you at?
- What is the basic app idea?
- What services are likely to be required?
Based on the first meeting, it is usually already possible to find out whether we can support you.
Cost estimate
In the next step, we try to estimate the scope and costs of the app development. Either another phone call or documents that you provide us with, such as functional descriptions, wireframes or a specification sheet, help us to do this. So you know exactly how much budget you have to plan with and how long it will take until your application is fully programmed.
Proposal
If our initial assessment goes in the right direction, we create a proposal document with a rough concept that describes our services and the technical approach precisely and transparently.
FAQ – App development
If you still have questions, you will find the most important answers summarised here.
How long does it take to build an app?
The app development time is similar to the costs: complex apps with many innovative features require more time. Programming the app, but also user testing and app UX/UI design take more time. Find out more in our blog post ‘App development duration’. Pro tip: One of the best ways to save time and money in app development is to consistently focus on cross-platform app development.
How much does it cost to develop an app?
The costs for app development depend on many factors, such as the type of app. Of course, it also costs more to create a comprehensive app with many functions and integrations than, for example, to create a simple learning app with static content. Very simple apps can often be developed for budgets of between 10,000 and 40,000 euros. Highly complex apps, on the other hand, can cost between 100,000 and 250,000 euros. A detailed overview of all the factors that influence the cost of an app (and how best to save money) can be found in our blog post on ‘App development costs’.
Can anyone create a mobile app?
In principle, anyone with programming skills can get started and build an app themselves. There are also online app construction kits that allow even less technically savvy people to create simple apps themselves. However, for commercial applications that are to be integrated with existing databases, where data protection is of great importance and where a good user experience is the top priority, there is no way around app experts. But how do you find the right partner? Find out more in our blog post: Tips for choosing a mobile app agency.
How do I ensure that my app is successful?
Successful apps have clear target groups, offer real added value and an intuitive user experience. We recommend a thorough market analysis, clear goals, continuous testing and feedback loops during development. A well thought-out marketing strategy after the launch is also important.
Will the app be maintained after release?
Yes, we offer post-release support and maintenance. This includes bug fixes, updates for new operating system versions and the introduction of new functions as required.
Can I update the app myself after the release?
We offer flexible solutions. A content management system (CMS) can be integrated for minor changes, allowing you to update certain content yourself without any programming knowledge. For larger updates, we are ready to professionally expand and maintain the app.
How is my app tested?
We carry out extensive tests on various devices and operating systems to ensure that your app is stable and user-friendly. This includes unit tests, integration tests and usability tests to ensure the best possible quality.
How is the app published in the App Store?
We take care of the entire publishing process in the app stores (Apple App Store and Google Play Store), including compliance with all guidelines, the creation of app descriptions and screenshots as well as the optimisation of discoverability (App Store Optimisation, ASO).
How important is the design of my app?
The design is crucial to the success of your app. An appealing, intuitive design ensures a positive user experience and increases user loyalty. Our design team develops customised solutions that combine functionality and aesthetics.
We look forward to your project!
Would you like to open up new digital worlds with your company or organization? Send us a message or give us a call! We will get back to you within a few hours.