iOS App Development Trends That Will Shape 2017

The role of mobile applications is widening as their utility is pervading multiple aspects of our everyday life. There were hints of some of their varied utility in 2016 which is being fortified in the onset of 2017.

Apple, especially will be witnessing some dynamic changes as it adjusts itself to the changing market demands, embracing a more open source outlook over its closely guarded proprietorship. We look at some iOS App Development trends that will shape 2017.

IoT Apps

The HomeKit forayed at the developer’s forum in the latter half of last year, and this year we will get to see its widespread application in consumer devices. IoT technologies are have become sophisticated, iOS’ homegrown iBeacon technology has also matured and become a more reliable device.

Depending on its advancement, Apple first launched beacon-based applications for commercial use in events and retail industry. It is now prepared to launch it for personal use in the home space.

Apple Watch 2 has also generated enthusiasm amongst consumers and Apple is actively encouraging mobile app developers to launch applications in this space.

GPS & Beacons

The GPS and beacon technologies are being used in commercial spaces for pushing advanced marketing efforts, that target individual customers. Their application has been widespread in household appliances too since the past two years, however it will gain widespread utilisation in this year.

Beacon and GPS sensors are being integrated in automobiles, kitchen appliances, lighting, washing machine and much more. With iOS 7, Apple has created a separate interface which the device owner can use to manage and control the various electronic appliances in their homes.

They can do this while being present within the vicinity of their homes or from some remote location such as their homes. This can also be viewed as an energy saving, environment friendly move.

Augmented Reality

Augmented reality is making headway through iOS applications, largely using GPS technology to offer a whole range of services to its users. The use of augmented reality for games is changing the landscape of gaming industry, integrating games into every activity of individuals.

In 2017, augmented reality and GPS will be indispensible for the mobile app developer. 3D games will also gain prominence and the only issue may arise in terms of security.

Security

The above point of augmented reality brings us to a brining issue of this decade, security! As people rely more on their devices for performing intimate personal tasks pertaining to managing their homes, finances and much more, mobile app security will be a prominent issue that mobile app developers will have to address.

Apple’s devices are renowned for the advanced level secure infrastructure, but with iOS 3.0, security may be compromised, especially as Apple plans to open some aspects of app development to the larger public. Also, till an international standard arrives, mobile app security will be a point of concern.

iOS for Enterprises

Apple’s iPad tablet is widely adopted by enterprises and the business applications are also used prominently. However, it has made real breakthrough with the beacon technology which is being used in applications for commercial and marketing purposes.

The iPhone’s market share may witness greater rise as iOS integrates it to devices such as watch, Mac laptop and beacon enabled office appliances. Also, the widespread use of cloud technology will make adoption of the secure infrastructure provided by iOS very lucrative.

Swift 3.0 Proprietary Programming

Swift became an open source programming language over an year ago in December, 2015. Currently, Apple developers have more or less distanced themselves from Objective-C and enthusiastically adopted Swift programming language in its entirety.

The Swift platform is easy to use, navigate and can be used to create advanced applications. In 2017, use of Swift 3.0 will only extend, especially to develop apps for iOS, watchOS and tvOS.

2017 will be an exciting year for iOS app developers as there is a host of new technologies to work with to develop futuristic applications. Solution Analysts provides highly agile applications for start-ups, enterprises and government bodies. We have the infrastructure to create most complex applications with ergonomic interface.