The 18 Benefits of iOS App Development You Did Not Know Before

Curious to know those benefits? We have covered all in our blog making sure you get the most out of your investment in iOS application development. 

What is iOS Application Development?

iOS application development is the process of creating software applications specifically for Apple's iOS operating system, which powers devices like iPhones, iPads, and iPods. 

The process involves various actions, such as designing the app's user interface, conceptualizing it, its user interface, writing code and testing it, and improving performance. Developers use the tools offered by Apple, such as Xcode and the Swift programming languages, to build apps that comply with the strict standards that the App Store sets. 

With a focus on providing an effortless user experience, secure features, and extremely fast speed, iOS app development enables businesses to create a premium and loyal user base worldwide.

Market Statistics of iOS App Development

• Nearly 2 million apps are available on the Apple App Store, with approximately 1,999,748 available as of mid-2024. Of these, 1,766,150 are non-gaming apps, and 233,598 are gaming apps​(Source:42matters).
• Around 838,570 publishers have released apps on the Apple App Store​(Source:42matters).
• Most apps on the App Store are free, with about 1,902,477 free apps and 95,823 paid apps. This translates to 95.2% of the apps being free and 4.8% being paid​(Source:42matters, BuildFire).
• Despite the higher volume of apps on Google Play, the Apple App Store continues to see substantial download activity. The Apple App Store grew by about 2.5% in downloads, while Google Play grew by 31% from 2019 to 2020​(Source: BuildFire).
• On average, about 1,091 new apps are released on the Apple App Store daily, amounting to approximately 38,912 new apps monthly​(Source:42matters).
• Approximately 42% of the apps on the Apple App Store have been rated by users. The average rating distribution indicates that many users actively engage with and rate the apps they download​(Source:42matters).

The 4 Phases of iOS Application Development

An iOS app is usually created in four phases of development, each crucially involved in creating the final product.

• Conceptualization: The first step is to help developers bring the concept for the app into existence. Determine the capabilities and features that will be added. This phase is completed by collaborating with market research, segmenting the target market, and defining the purpose of the application. iOS app developers use tools such as mind-mapping software, templates for personas, and tools to analyze competitors to fine-tune the initial idea of the app.
• Design: This design phase involves transforming conceptualized ideas into tangible objects. As a team, experienced UI and UX designers jointly develop wireframes, prototypes, and aesthetically pleasing visuals that meet the app's objective and users' needs. The rapid rise of Sketch, Adobe XD, and Figma as essential apps for designing pixel-perfect apps.
• Development: The development phase is the primary phase where the developers complete the conceptualization phase by constructing functional codes using programming languages. Using Swift and Objective-C, a programming language, developers write a software codebase to build the mobile application's user interface and server-side workflows. Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such as Xcode provide a complete software package that allows programming, debugging, and test tools to help make the process of creating an iOS application quick and efficient. Not to mention, it also offers control and code monitoring capabilities to achieve high-quality results in the app. 
• Testing and Deployment: The final step involves a thorough app test to identify glitches, bugs, or performance issues. The role of Quality Assurance (QA) testers is to test the independent component of the app and its version on various iOS devices. This includes functional tests for usability and compatibility. This will provide users with an uninterrupted experience. This is why, after the test programs are completed, the application will be made available for review by the App Store and, consequently, will be available to all users worldwide.

To complete all the phases, iOS developers must have the following.

• A Mac system running on the latest version of macOS
• Xcode, which is Apple's IDE (Integrated Development Environment) for developing apps on iOS
• iOS SDK, which includes the frameworks and tools that you require to build iOS applications
• Knowledge of a specific programming language, like Swift or Objective-C

Beyond that, developers must be able to access an active Apple Developer account for $99 per year. Only valid Apple Developer Program members can submit applications for inclusion in the App Store. 

18 Business Benefits of Developing an iOS Application

1. Exceptional Numbers in Revenue

When comparing iOS app development with Android, you can see that the former typically yields more returns on investments (ROI). A variety of factors can contribute to this higher revenue potential. 

For instance, iOS apps typically draw a more affluent audience, who are generally more inclined to purchase premium apps and also make in-app purchases. The higher disposable income of this demographic is reflected in more expenditure on applications, increasing the potential for revenue for developers.

Additionally, Apple's App Store follows strict standards that ensure only the best applications are accepted onto the platform. This thorough screening procedure not only ensures an excellent standard for app quality but also decreases the chance of encountering problems with performance that may impact user satisfaction. 

This means that iOS apps generally provide an improved user experience that encourages higher user satisfaction and engagement levels. The increased satisfaction of users leads to greater use of the app and increased rates of in-app purchases, further boosting revenues.

2. High-Quality Standards

One thing that distinguishes the iOS app is its quality. Apple App Store has strict quality standards to review all the applications to be published on their platform. These guidelines emphasize the need to hire iPhone developers. 

Quality assurance experts can further assure the quality, design, and security of the application. High-quality apps assure the audience that they will get an effortless and secure experience free of malware and performance issues. 

3. Affluent Customer Base

Opportunities for business in the iOS Market are never-ending, with the potential to target an elite market. This is due to the characteristics of iOS users, which usually represent a group with greater purchasing power. 

The iOS user base offers a unique opportunity for businesses to reach a customer segment that values high-end, superior services. By aligning their products and services with the needs of this affluent market, businesses can tap into a wealthy customer base. This not only opens doors for increased revenues but also ensures brand loyalty.

4. Increased Capital Return

Every business needs a high return on investment when investing money into a new app development. Developing an iOS app ensures that you will achieve this as iOS users have greater purchasing power even if the Android platform has more users.

5. Privacy and Security

Apple's approach to providing security to its users is unmatched. Choosing the iOS platform ensures robust security features, including end-to-end encryption, regular application security reviews, and frequent updates. These updates often include enhancements designed to address vulnerabilities, inter-app encryption, and advanced user authentication mechanisms.

This not only secures sensitive business information but also increases customer confidence. Additionally, companies can opt to install reliable third-party SDKs to further protect users and their data. 

By using third-party partners and strong security practices in iOS mobile app development, companies can prevent even advanced data breaches. This gives the sense of relation to users that their data is in safe hands and they can freely enjoy the app’s features.

6. Superior User Experience

Do you realize that about 50% of customers remove the app after the first time installation due to a poor user experience? This isn't the case for iOS Application development.

Apple has developed a great reputation for its customers thanks to its flawless hardware, excellent customer service, and fantastic software suite. Every iOS app runs seamlessly on an iPhone and delivers a great user experience that is the basis of any company.

The satisfaction of Apple customers cannot be ignored when evaluating the benefits of app development. The users can rest assured that each app they purchase via the Apple App Store is safe, secure, and free from any performance glitches.

7. Monetization Opportunities

Unlike users on different platforms, iOS Users are more likely to make in-app purchases and spend money on apps. For businesses, this provides an array of monetization options. Additionally, the iOS platform is a wonderful option for earning income regardless of whether you make an in-app purchase, charge users for downloads, or provide subscription-based services.

A large number of users with a willingness to spend more money allows businesses to earn profit from the value of their iOS apps.

8. Safe Payments

Users are conscious of online transaction dangers since they ask for personal details, credit/debit card details, and transactions. Because of this, many seek a reliable application that provides faster and safer transactions. As we have mentioned before, iOS is highly secure. Online payment transactions through Apple Pay are more secure than other transactions.

The iPhone provides encryption to ensure a secure transaction. Therefore, entrepreneurs focus on iOS app development to attain the success they desire in their business and aim for 100% profits.

9. Easier Updates and Lower Fragmentation

One of the most notable benefits that comes with the Apple ecosystem is less fragmentation of iOS between operating systems. Contrary to the sprawling Android marketplace, iOS devices run on only a few operating system versions and models, easing the development of apps and ensuring better integration with iOS devices.

The streamlined iOS ecosystem makes managing app maintenance and software upgrades easier. Developers can focus on optimizing apps for a wider range of operating systems and devices, which results in faster and more reliable iOS updates. The unifying environment and the lack of iOS fragmentation will ensure that the management of iOS updates is simpler. 

Furthermore, it provides your users with an uncluttered experience across all iOS devices without having your developers worry about compatibility issues or lengthy maintenance.

10. Easy Yet Powerful Testing

Many believe testing an iOS app is costly if they don’t have devices with different OS and iOS versions.

That’s not it. Apple’s IDE provides efficient testing tools and frameworks such as the Xcode testing suite for holistic app testing. It has an in-built framework called XCTest using which developers can write test cases for unit testing, UI, and performance testing. 

With an iOS simulator, developers can test the iOS app on multiple Apple devices. Besides automating the test, XCode also helps in the identification of all the areas that need to be tested. For testing small code snippets, it has a swift playground to test your app in real time without even running all the functionalities of the app. 

11. Thoughtful and Beautiful Designs

It is necessary to compare iOS and Android applications from the design point of view. iOS icons are more stylish and sophisticated. Users are attracted to Apple devices due to their gorgeous UX/UI.

The apps are periodically designed and constantly updated. Some apps also display notifications without users signing up, which helps establish a connection between corporate individuals more quickly and effectively. They have a variety of stunning designs that will delight your clients.

In short, the iOS UI is simple and pleasant to use. This makes a business's application more attractive to customers and helps increase sales. This is why iOS has a better ROI.

12. Low Latency and High Responsiveness

iOS devices' highly optimized hardware and software deliver extremely low latency and high responsiveness. An intuitive and seamless user experience is achieved by the speed of detection and responsiveness to user actions and gestures. Overall performance for iOS apps is perceived as faster and more responsive because of this speed.

13. Fast and Easy Data Moving

Another benefit people seek is iPhone App Development's capability of moving data between Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. Transferring information from one Apple gadget to the next takes just a few seconds. This is why it's essential to design iOS applications for your company.

14. Support for Emerging Technologies

iOS and emerging tech have been in constant contact for a long time. Beyond its well-known reputation, Apple consistently pioneers and supports emerging technologies and offers an opportunity for businesses to be innovative. With regular upgrades and investments in the latest technology, Apple allows developers to investigate and incorporate new features into iOS applications.

15. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

Apple has made utilizing the augmented reality feature within iOS very easy for developers by introducing ARKit. It allows businesses to build immersive experiences in iOS applications. This allows for creative marketing campaigns, interactive product demonstrations, and increased customer engagement, especially in gaming, retail, and education.

16. Machine Learning and AI Integration

The Apple Core ML framework facilitates integrating machine learning and AI capabilities into iOS applications that promote technology adoption. Companies can benefit from this technology by creating personalized customer experiences, predictive analysis, and more efficient operations, as well as enhancing the value of their apps.

17. Wearables and Health Integration

With Apple's primary focus on wearables, such as the Apple Watch and the HealthKit framework, companies can look at opportunities in the wellness and health sectors. Integrating these technologies permits applications for health monitoring, fitness tracking systems, and innovative health services that cater to the increasing need for wellness-related apps.

18. Sustainability and Green Initiatives

Apple's technological advances don't have to be accompanied by a lack of commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable practices that align with the changing consumer mindset. Businesses developing iOS apps can tap into this ethos by integrating sustainability-focused features, promoting eco-friendly initiatives, and aligning their brand values with Apple's environmental initiatives.

Apple makes adopting new technology with iOS simple for professionals, which allows businesses to remain at the forefront of technological advancement, differentiate their products, and meet the ever-changing customer demands.

The Key Takeaway

Hiring an iOS app development company brings immense benefits to you regardless of whether you wish to broaden your business's prospects in the local and globally-oriented market or require greater security than Android apps.

While iOS app development is not for everyone and may be a challenge for business owners, it's worth hiring iOS app developers. They would simplify and speed up the iOS app development resulting in high-quality mobile applications and increasing your profits. 

iOS application development services also ensure you get exceptional support post-development for the continuous success of your business and apps.