Recommendations for Mobile Development Programming Languages

In summary, for mobile development, it is recommended to use web apps with Apache Cordova for platform independence or Elm for a promising replacement for traditional web development. For games, Unity is a popular choice with support for multiple platforms and programming in Javascript and C#. For on-device programming, there are options such as Pythonista, Codea, APDE, and AIDE for iOS and Android devices. For Apple apps, Xcode with a developer license is the official means of development, while Android has a similar environment using IntelliJ tools.
  • #1
ann2_15
1
0
Can someone recommend me what programming language is good for mobile development?
Thanks in advance.
 
Technology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Welcome to PF!

If you want platform independence then folks write web apps and use Apache Cordova to make it into a mobile app for a specific platform.

Checkout Elm for programming web apps. Its relatively new but seems like a very promising replacement for javascript+html+css programming for today's web apps.

If you want games then checkout the Unity game engine. It supports many platforms and 2D/3D games and the Oculus Rift VR tech. Programming is done in Javascript and C#.

If you just want to play then checkout Processing.org with the Android SDK where you can write processing sketches that can be sideloaded onto an Android device.

There are also some on-device apps that provide a programming environment:
- Pythonista on iOS
- Codea on iOS
- APDE on Android (on-device processing sketches)
- AIDE on Android (java on android)

Xcode for iOS is the official means of writing Apple apps in either Objective-C or in Apple's Swift. However, to upload apps you need a developer license from Apple and must get your app vetted by them for commercial use.

Android has a similar development environment using IntelliJ tools:

http://developer.android.com/sdk/in...wOUa9dbx3Lj3xbiW3VljiSLr50Eo5gKDXgRoCoZvw_wcB
 
  • Like
Likes meBigGuy

1. What are the most popular programming languages for mobile development?

The most popular programming languages for mobile development are Java, Swift, and Kotlin. These languages are used to create native apps for Android and iOS devices. Other popular options include React Native, Flutter, and Xamarin, which allow for cross-platform development.

2. How do I choose which programming language to use for my mobile app?

The choice of programming language for a mobile app depends on factors such as the platform you are targeting, the complexity of the app, and the skills of your development team. It is important to consider the pros and cons of each language and choose the one that best fits the needs of your project.

3. Is it necessary to learn multiple programming languages for mobile development?

It is not necessary to learn multiple programming languages for mobile development, but it can be beneficial. If you are creating a native app, you will need to learn the specific language for the platform you are targeting. However, learning cross-platform development languages like React Native or Flutter can allow you to create apps for both iOS and Android with one codebase.

4. Are there any new or emerging programming languages for mobile development?

Yes, there are always new and emerging programming languages for mobile development. Some examples include Swift, which was introduced by Apple in 2014 for iOS development, and Kotlin, which is gaining popularity for Android development. Other emerging languages include Dart for Google's Flutter framework and TypeScript for building cross-platform apps with React Native.

5. Can I use web development languages for mobile development?

Yes, you can use web development languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for mobile development with tools like Apache Cordova or Ionic. These frameworks allow you to create hybrid apps that run on both web and mobile platforms. However, they may not provide the same level of performance and functionality as native apps developed with platform-specific languages.

Similar threads

  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
4
Views
630
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
16
Views
1K
  • Programming and Computer Science
2
Replies
65
Views
2K
Replies
65
Views
3K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
7
Views
658
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
16
Views
1K
  • Programming and Computer Science
Replies
8
Views
878
Back
Top