Differences between Native, Hybrid, and Web Applications

As a mobile application developer, it's essential to understand the distinctions between native, hybrid, and web applications.

Native Applications

Native applications are developed for specific platforms using programming languages and tools recommended by the platform (such as Swift or Objective-C for iOS, Java or Kotlin for Android). These apps have direct access to the device's hardware and software features, providing optimal performance and user experience.

Example: iOS App Store for iPhone.

Hybrid Applications

Hybrid applications combine elements of both native and web applications. They are created using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and then wrapped in a native container. This allows them to be deployed across multiple platforms with a single codebase.

Example: MoPub advertising platform app.

Web Applications

Web applications run on a web server and are accessed through a web browser. They are platform-independent and do not need to be installed on the device. While web apps may not have access to all device features, they offer ease of development and maintenance.

Example: Gmail web application.