Should You Opt for Python Mobile App Development in 2024?

Python is one of the most popular programming languages in the world. This is partly due to the relative ease with which users can learn the language and the depth of resources available. Additionally, writing lengthy code can be done quickly, and there is a shorter deployment time for new-build programs.

Python is a general-purpose programming language that stresses readability. There is still something of a question mark over the suitability of Python for mobile application development. Should you opt for Python for your mobile apps in 2024? 

This article will provide you with some information you need to make that decision. 

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Python Growth

In 2021, Python was the third most popular language according to the Tiobe Index of Programming Languages. In January of 2022, it took first place. This movement in position indicates that more and more data engineers are choosing to use Python code over other options like Java or C#. The more engineers that use a language, the more prevalent it becomes in the world of developers. And the more prevalent it is, the easier it is for you to find an expert team to work on your application.

Versatility

The chief reason for Python’s rise to prominence is the sheer versatility of the language. As an article in Computer Weekly puts it, “although there might be a better solution for any given problem, Python will always get the job done well.” This means that a developer working in Python can work on any given problem with a high success rate, even if a better solution may be available using a different language. Python is the way to go unless you have a massive team of highly skilled experts in each programming language.

Resources

Python is an open-source programming language. That might not mean much to a business looking to develop an application; after all, you will likely outsource the work or hire a consultant to do it for you. However, the nature of open source technology has repeatedly encouraged community support and other free resources. 

Python is no exception. Along with Python-based conferences, chat rooms, and meet-ups, the Python Standard Library is an invaluable resource that gives even the Python beginner all the tools they need to build outstanding programs. 

Add in the seemingly endless number of previously resolved issues that coding communities on Stack Overflow, Discord, and Slack maintain. There is likely already a solution for any new developer’s query.

Who Uses Python for Mobile Apps?

Although it is much-praised for its ability to be picked up by beginners, Python underpins some of the most popular apps globally, proving that it is not just for simple code but also for super-heavy traffic use cases. Big names that use Python for some elements of their code include: 

•     Google
•     Spotify
•     Instagram
•     Dropbox
•     Reddit
•     Uber 

These apps attract millions of users every day, which would not happen if the language did not produce effective, intuitive, and flawless programs. 

Python from the User Perspective

Using Python programming at the back-end is seamless. Users often cite it as the fastest and most cost-effective way of coding on the server-side. 

At the front-end, though, there is one main issue, neither Android nor iOS currently support the language. You ideally want it to run on both of those operating systems, making it a significant inconvenience. However, there are ways around this by using bridging frameworks.

The two most popular frameworks used for this purpose are Kivy and BeeWare, which use the same Python source code across the different operating systems with no re-writing required.

These bridging frameworks give users an interface that feels native to the device (particularly with BeeWare) and functions consistently across devices (particularly with Kivy). 

Cross-platform Mobile App Development

In the past, and with some current programming languages, you would need to code one program to launch an Android application. Launching the same application on iOS would require a different code program. Naturally, this impacts both the cost and time to deployment.

Getting an app up and running could take twice as long and double the investment to get your app in front of an audience. If you have ever had a colleague, friend, or family member recommend an app to you but then found that it is unavailable on your device, this is likely the reason. It is frustrating for the potential end-user of the app and a loss of potential income for the app developer. 

With Python, this issue does not exist. Developers only need to write one bank of code, and then the app can then be launched simultaneously across platforms (using Kivy or BeeWare). This can cut your cost to deployment in half compared with other languages. 

Python is a desirable language for a range of mobile applications because of the reduction in the time and resources needed to get an app to deployment. 

When Should You Use Python?

To answer the question set at the beginning of this article, consider the descriptions below; if any of these fit the app you are developing, you should consider using Python. 

Python is the right language for you if your app…

• is a simple app that does not rely on fantastic operating speed and performance.
•  needs to be developed quickly to hit the market as soon as possible.
• needs to be developed for the least amount of money.
• needs to make use of machine learning, artificial intelligence, or other advanced data science techniques

These criteria can fit the full spectrum of application use cases including, games, social networking, machine learning, blockchain, system admin, video, music, and business.

Need Help?

Digital Authority Partners is an award-winning Chicago Mobile App Development agency with a track record of successful app development for companies, ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. We offer free consultations to businesses interested in app development, and we can help you with any questions or issues you have.