Mobile development platforms give developers a single environment possessing all of the tools developers need to create a mobile application. Most platforms are geared toward creating iOS or Android applications, but others are cross-platform applications and provide an environment with specific native tools. Others will possess hybrid functionality and tools to create applications across multiple operating systems. Companies in need of a mobile application provide their developers with a platform to write, manage, and deploy mobile applications. This process usually takes place entirely within a development or IT department but can occur throughout a small company or on an individual basis. The products can be used to create anything from games to e-commerce applications.
Mobile development platforms possess similar characteristics to integrated development environments (IDE) but are geared specifically toward mobile applications. Many mobile development platforms also possess tools for mobile app testing, mobile app optimization, and mobile app debugging.
To qualify for inclusion in the Mobile Development Platforms category, a product must:
Have a mobile-specific development focus
Possess front-end mobile development tools for UI/UX creation
Possess back-end development tools for data services
Possess tools for mobile application testing
Provide a software developer’s kit with additional tools for actions such as collaboration, debugging, or code analysis
