Software development is a growing career in the age of technology. Businesses are now employing developers to create their websites and applications. These applications are used to connect with the business’ target consumers.
Among the most popular frameworks used for mobile applications is React Native. What is it and is there a demand for it?
What is React Native?
React Native was developed by the team behind Facebook. The foundations of React Native began with the development of React.js in 2012 (more on this later). The React.js was then decoupled from Facebook and open-sourced in 2013.
Further developments to the React framework were then done by the team of engineers behind it. In 2015, these developments led to the birth of the open-source framework known as React Native.
React Native uses JavaScript to create mobile apps. Its best feature is that it is a cross-platform framework. This means that developers can use React Native to create mobile apps that can work across any platform, be it Android or iOS.
What is the difference between native app development and cross-platform app development?
Native application development refers to creating software or applications that will only work on one operating system. This means that distinct codes need to be created to run on Android and another set of distinct codes for iOS.
Some companies enjoy the advantages of native app development especially if they want to create unique apps for each platform. But this type of development also has its downsides.
First, the cost of developing two separate apps is significantly higher. This is because two teams will have to work simultaneously to release the same app on two platforms. Second, the apps can end up having a different interface on each platform. This can lead to a confusing user experience.
Cross-platform development, on the other hand, is arguably more beneficial for mobile app developers. A single team of developers can use a cross-platform framework to develop a mobile app that will run on both Android and iOS. This can significantly save on costs and the time it takes to develop an app.
Using a cross-platform framework such as React Native will allow developers to produce a user interface that is consistent on all mobile operating systems.
What is the Difference Between React Native and React.js?
As mentioned, React.js preceded the React Native framework. React.js is a JavaScript library. It is capable of producing websites and mobile apps with complex features. At the heart of the React Native framework is the older React.js.
React Native, on the other hand, is the framework used to develop mobile apps. Using JavaScript, React Native can develop high-functioning applications. Not to be confused with native app development, React Native can produce cross-platform applications that have a native feel to them.
Both developments are widely used by the JavaScript and mobile app development communities. The good critical response to React Native makes it an in-demand framework today. Many companies prefer to hire React.js developers to create mobile apps that are both efficient and user-friendly.
Are React Native Developers in Demand?
As React Native is arguably the most popular framework for developing mobile apps, the demand for React Native developers is at an all-time high. Finding competent and knowledgeable developers is becoming more and more of a challenge. This is because companies are continuously competing to produce the best mobile applications.
Businesses are now choosing between in-house hiring or outsourcing developers.
In-House Developers
The advantage of hiring in-house React Native developers is the fast and efficient communication that it can bring. Developers are constantly making changes to the mobile app. Having a dedicated team of developers will help streamline these changes.
Hiring in-house developers also ensures that the company has a team of developers that are in line with the company’s goals and values. The only downside of in-house hiring is that it is also the most expensive.
Outsourced Developers
Outsourcing React Native developers is a great solution if the company does not need to be entirely involved with the app development process. Along with a team of developers, companies can also opt to outsource managers to coordinate the development and management process. Outsourcing is also a more cost-effective alternative.
Freelance Developers
Another solution is to hire freelance React Native developers. These developers work on a per-project basis. Most engagements with freelancers end once the development process of the mobile app is completed.
The downside to this type of engagement is that freelancers usually charge different costs for the development, troubleshooting, and management of the apps. Depending on the agreement, companies may spend more or less compared to outsourced developers.
The Final Word
The React Native framework is one of the most popular and widely used frameworks for mobile app development. Companies such as Facebook, Discord, and Skype, to name a few, are among the top users of React Native. With many businesses launching their mobile apps, React Native developers are more in-demand than ever before.
