Tech

Should You Use React Native For App Development?

React Native For App Development

April 9th, 2021   |   Updated on December 17th, 2021

What Is React Native?

React Native is an open-source framework that uses Javascript to help you code your own unique apps for just about any purpose.

The idea is that it makes the process a lot easier for beginners and it allows you to easily preview and edit your work as you go.

Apps created with React Native can also be compatible with IOS and Android and elements of each can be edited individually without the need to code an entirely new app.

For example, the Android app could be a different colour scheme to the IOS version without them being coded separately.

There is a selection of pre-existing components for you to add to your app as well as the option to create your own. Although basic knowledge of Javascript is necessary to do so, the website takes you through each section of creating your own app. Their website explains everything in detail and gives opportunities to practice each section of coding.

Why Should I use React Native?

For many, the idea of learning to code from scratch is a daunting task, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to be the one to create their app, rather than outsourcing the job to a professional.

React gives you full control of the creating process and teaches how to do it all in one. The framework makes the process quicker and easier than it would be normally.

Due to the fact the system still runs on code rather than basic templates such as a website creator, the app you create will still be just as unique as it would have been if coded from scratch.

Mobile Enterprise Apps

Naturally, it is a cheaper alternative to hiring someone else to create an app for you, which for a new start-up can be very important.

They are known for their stable and optimised apps, this means what you will create is going to run smoothly and as intended.

Arguably the biggest benefit to using React is that code can be reused, so codes are already written for certain purposes and features, all you need to do is copy it into your app’s coding.

What Are The Setbacks?

Like everything, React Native has its downfalls.

The biggest of which is that, despite how user-friendly they’ve made the service, it’s still a lot to learn. It’s not something you can just pick up and start creating an app with. Unless you already have a decent knowledge of coding, specifically in Javascript.

You will need to take time in learning how each element of the process works in order to create a functioning product.

This may be easier than learning how to code your own app from scratch, but it’s certainly a lot harder than paying someone else to do it for you.

The large community and open-source library provide information and tools to assist anyone that is struggling, but not enough to help a complete newbie create their app.

Summary

Despite the setbacks, React Native is still a very useful tool for anyone attempting to create an app and since they are backed by Facebook they are sure to keep growing and addressing the flaws in their service.

With the ever-growing community creating pre-coded features, it could eventually become simple enough that anyone will be able to pick it up and create a functioning app for their business.