How to Build a Cross-Platform Mobile Application Using Kotlin?
Cross-platform development is becoming more popular, and you may be wondering why. As implied by the name, it enables the execution of apps on various platforms – whether iOS or Android and assists businesses in reaching more consumers and making more money. It’s no wonder that the spotlight is gradually but steadily shifting to cross platform mobile application and that new technologies are emerging at an increasing rate.
Since the beginning of mobile app development, there has been a demand for a single codebase that can operate on multiple platforms. There are many more solutions and technologies out there than you can keep up with, and Kotlin Multiplatform (Mobile) is a (relatively) new player in town. Is it worth it to invest your time in this new player in town? In this article, we’ll look at Kotlin Multiplatform, what it is, how it differs from other platforms, the pros, and cons of the kotlin multiplatform, and why you should at least try it in one of your next mobile projects.
What is Kotlin Multiplatform?
Kotin Multiplatform is a framework for exchanging code across multiple platforms. This means you can share similar data, state, and business logic across Windows, Linux, macOS, Web, iOS, and Android, as well as any Java Virtual Machine (JVM)-based platform not supported by the aforementioned operating systems.
Who is using Kotlin Multiplatform?
- VMware
- Autodesk
- Yandex
- IceRock
- Quizlet
What is Kotlin Mobile Multiplatform?
Kotlin Mobile Multiplatform is an SDK for cross-platform mobile development developed by JetBrains. It leverages Kotlin’s multiplayer functionality. The Android and iOS versions of an application frequently share many features. Nonetheless, they differ substantially – particularly in terms of their user interface – from slight differences in scrolling behavior to entirely different navigation logic. Simultaneously, the application’s business logic, including data management, analytics, and authentication, is frequently identical. As a result, it’s easy to share some aspects of an application across platforms while keeping others completely distinct.
Kotlin Multiplatform Pros
1) Modular Integration
The fact that Kotlin is an SDK rather than a framework is probably its most significant advantage. This implies that teams with current apps may add a module or move a small portion to test its feasibility without making a considerable investment. This significantly aids Kotlin in addressing the most significant barrier to transitioning to a new codebase.
2) Ease to Learn
Kotlin is already a popular programming language, and its syntax is quite similar to other popular languages such as Swift and Java. This also decreases the entrance barrier and encourages developers to use Kotlin as an alternative.
3) A single codebase for the business logic
Cross-platform solutions allow you to use single code for different platforms, and Kotlin Multi-Platform is no different. The benefit of Kotlin is that it will enable you to share functionality and libraries below the UI layer. This allows developers to connect with their native environment (iOS/Android) directly.
4) Faster Development
When you develop the same application for several platforms, the business logic, authentication, data management, and analytics are often the same. From scrolling to navigation to structure, the UI is unique. Developers can use Kotlin Multiplatform Mobile to share standard code and generate UI code separately. Developers save time and effort with this simple code sharing, making app development faster and easier.
5) Fewer Bugs
Kotlin enables developers to write the cleanest code possible. However, if certain flaws have crept into the code, they can be found and fixed prior to runtime, saving you time and money in the testing and quality assurance (QA) procedures.
Kotlin Benefits in Cross Platform Mobile Application
1) Still in Alpha
Although Kotlin Multi-Platform was released in version 1.2, the SDK is still in alpha. It has a surprising amount of acceptance in large products (VMware, PlanGrid, CashApp, and Trikot by Mirego), but organizations may be hesitant to switch to it until it has a stable version.
2) Community support and Libraries
As this is a new alternative, libraries and community support are still limited and will need to catch up. There are a few fundamental libraries, and they are continually being improved and worked on.
3) Take more development resources
When compared to other programming languages, Kotlin isn’t the best option for quickly creating an MVP or prototype. Its need for various semi-native components raises the development cost in terms of both time and resources.
The Final Verdict
Fortunately, Latitude Technolabs employs professionals that believe Kotlin is a viable choice because they are familiar with its capabilities. Hiring our Kotlin specialists may be a win-win situation if you’re looking to develop a solution for two major platforms as well as a web version. Contact us, and we’ll explain to you how the Kotlin may help you with your cross platform mobile application.
