Mobile App Development Archives - Page 5 of 14

Posted on April 18, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

As the global market share of mobile app is increasing frequently, use of cross-platform mobile app development has been essential for businesses. When compared with native mobile app development, cross-platform development turns out to be more cost efficient and time saving.

In such a situation, Xamarin is incredibly the best platform or framework for developers to create mobile apps using a single code i.e. C# which can be shared in multiple platforms. With a powerful IDE, Xamarin helps developers to create a comprehensive environment for development, where if required the users can further integrate the app to Xamarin Studio or Microsoft Visual Studio. Other features of Xamarin like high compiled code, options to use the native UI across various platforms, Xamarin test suite, benefits of programming language C# also makes Xamarin an extensively preferred platform.

After checking out all the advantages of Xamarin, it becomes one of the best tool set that allows us to support multiple platforms with less or no amount of code change. Checkout this info graphic and learn about Xamarin a little more.

Posted on April 13, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

Developing a website or a mobile application could be an exhaustive process as it involves a lot of time and cost. Nevertheless, there are a lot of services, on the other hand, which are capable of assisting the development work in various ways. And one of them is through Firebase. This creative way takes away a major chunk of the burden from the developers’ shoulders.

Launched in the year 2012 April, Firebase is a framework that was anticipated to be a real-time database providing its APIs, letting users save and sync information across various customers. And this was the story when it first got launched. But when it was taken over by Google after 2 years, today, the same Firebase offers various functions that companies might find exceptionally valuable. To our surprise, Firebase has reached to 450, 000 plus developers currently from 110, 000 when it was taken over by Google in the year 2014.

Now, what is a Firebase exactly?

Firebase is a framework which helps in developing websites and web applications for companies across the globe with real-time database and that means when one user updates his or her record in the database, then that particular update would be projected to all users whether it is the website or a web application. This gives a basic and unified platform with rich features so that developers need not configure their server while using Firebase. The framework will take care of everything automatically.

There are a number of components which make working with Firebase excellent from a developer’s eye, which pertain to the core technology of the development. This will help to maintain the state of harmony between the developer and the customer by causing a minimal delay of work.

Now let’s check out some of the top benefits of using Firebase

1. Hosting

Production-grade web content which helps the developers in effectively sending apps and static content to CDN ( content delivery network) by just using one command. The process is extremely easy in Firebase as it consists Auto Provisioned SSL (Security Socket Layer) certificate ideas, Customized domain support, and Global CDN regardless developers are sending a single landing page or a complex web application. Hosting provides the best features and tools that are customized to build and manage static websites.

2. Authentication

Firebase authentication provides instant UI libraries, backend services, simple to utilize SDKs so that you can confirm customers over your app. It supports authentication utilizing username, email ids, or passwords. In addition, developers are allowed to let users sign in to their Firebase application either by utilizing FirebaseUI as a drop in authentication solution or by utilizing the Firebase Authentication SDK to manually incorporate sign-in techniques into the app.

3. Cloud Messaging

A cross-platform messaging solution, Firebase cloud messaging, allows users dependably send messages at literally no cost. You can let a customer know that a new message or another type of information is accessible for synchronization. Also, developers can send notifications to engage users and drive maintenance.

4. Test Lab

Used for testing the app on devices posted in a Google data center, this feature assists developers in finding issues with only happen on specific device configuration. Test Lab result consists of videos, images, logs, etc. that are available in your project in the Firebase console. In addition to that, this feature is capable of practicing your app constantly and will look for crashes even if you didn’t compose any test code for your app.

5. Notifications

Mobile app developers will get focused user notifications. This gives a choice for both developers and companies who are looking for an adaptable notification platform that needs basic coding work to start and a graphical console for sending messages.

6. Invites

Do you want to increase your users and compel them to download your application then word of mouth advertising stands out from the crowd? With the help of this feature, Firebase can actually make it happen. You can easily send customized messages emails and invitations to all your prospective clients.

7. Crash Reporting

This feature will help in creating a detailed report of the error that is categorized into groups of comparative stack flow picked out by the seriousness of impact on users. Apart from that, you can get registered to custom events that will help in figuring out a crash before it even happens.

8. Real-time database

It is a cloud-hosted database. Information will be stored as JSON and can be synchronized continuously to every related customer. This is especially true when you develop cross-platform apps with Android, iOS, JavaScript SDKs, the major role of your client’s demand will be depending on the real-time database example and continuously getting updates with the latest data. By using the Firebase Real-time database feature, there will be no need to build your own database or API as the Framework will be able to manage all the parts which generally come along by creating a backend for applications. It provides a flexible and expression based rules language to describe how organized your data should be and when the data should be scrutinized from or created to.

9. Storage

This feature is developed for application developers who feel the necessity to store and serve user-curated content such as images and videos. This feature provides safe document transfers and downloads for Firebase apps no matter how bad the network quality is. You can use it to save images, audios videos, and other user-curated content. Supported by Google cloud storage, Firebase storage is extremely cost- affordable.

10. Powerful Links

These powerful links will drastically change behavior to give the best user experience across various platforms such as social media networking platforms, emails, or any other promotions to improve user engagement, maintenance, and value to gain end to end insights Into all your development sources via analytics on the Firebase console.

11. App Indexing

By utilizing this feature, you can easily get to index your App in Google search. For example, if your app is already downloaded on a user’s device And whenever he searches for similar content, it will live your application directly from the search page. And if users don’t have your app then it a download button pops up in search results page.

Almost all features can be can be utilized and implemented while using Firebase. However, they have their own restrictions and trade-offs. For instance, unless your app is running over a unified database that is being edited by the various number of users at the same time and the updates are needed to be notified, the utilization of Firebase is not legitimized. As important review features and functions can be run by MySQL database.

Nevertheless, if you have a business app to be built, then Firebase is one of the best options. With effective and result-driven features, Firebase is all you need to launch your application.

Posted on April 12, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

An impressively crafted mobile app means constant revenue to a business and customer engagement. However, mobile app development comes across multiple development platforms and devices, which is apparently challenging. Xamarin mobile application development offers a thinkable cross-platform solution that works across multiple operating systems and devices.

Ever since its launch, Xamarin is used as a robust cross-platform app development platform that helps build a single app for all device systems. Native apps often require duplicated codes for different platforms. However, Xamarin app development comes with both pros and cons. In this blog, we are going to explore both advantages and disadvantages of using Xamarin in mobile app development.

Advantages:

Fast app development cycle

The most phenomenal part about Xamarin app development platform is that it contains reusable code 90% of which can be recycled for the development of apps on various platforms. The coding is based on C# language and .Net libraries. Since developers can reuse great portion of original Xamarin codes for creating apps across different platforms, it becomes easy to reserve big slice of time and efforts for them to accelerate the pace of development cycle. Due to simplified code sharing across different OS, users have a shortened product development lifecycle.

Getting the best of C#

Being a general-purpose, type-friendly programming language for Windows platform, C# is a sophisticated resort when it comes to leveraging object-oriented coding. C# is a modern, more advanced and improved version of C++ which enables you to treat basic data as objects. Its type-safety feature means a lot to Xamarin mobile app development company as it allows them to circumvent possible type-specific errors and blunders. Developers would not have to involve boilerplate or verbose type annotations, which increases convenience while also avoiding flawed program.

RMAD for businesses

Xamarin mobile app development services hugely appeal to businesses that emphasize modern app development practices due to its RMAD (rapid mobile app development) capability. Xamarin’s cross-platform development has the added advantage over native apps of speeding up the process without compromising on cost. Agility and cost are two primary requirements for any business and Xamarin does it better. Xamarin UI development uses forms libraries to make the process rapid, simple and smooth. This proves that Xamarin is a business-friendly platform.

Native User experience and feel

Xamarin cross-platform app development tool (IDE) enables such C# coding that the result is a native look and feel of the mobile app. At the moment of app runtime, it converts UI components into platform-specific elements, resulting in native app-like experience. Users choose apps with native UI design and experience. Xamarin app development company enjoys the access to device-specific features and its ability to compete with native app technologies.

Shared app code

What makes Xamarin as a considerable choice for cross-platform app development is the luxury of sharing the app code across multiple mobile platforms and OS. This is why businesses prefer to hire Xamarin developer. The important UI logics like input validation, web service calls, database interactions, back-end API integrations are all coded with C#. This makes Xamarin a cross-platform app development tool with a unique edge.

API Integration flexibility

Xamarin mobile application development also stands out because of its utmost flexibility to use same APIs and UI controls as found in developing Android, iOS and Mac applications. It supports the development for respective platform-specific programming languages such as Java, Objective-C and Swift. Such binding capability allows users to install new features no sooner than they are introduced into device’s OS.

Riddance from Hardware Compatibility issues

Xamarin offers the use of a rage of plug-ins and supporting APIs for cross-platform app development, which means it is quite possible that you are going to enjoy native-level interaction with operating device hardware. This goes to indicate that you will have little hardware compatibility issues with Xamarin mobile app development services as such. While developing apps on Xamarin platform, any Xamarin app development company can bask in the fact that they are to build applications with commonly available device functionalities running seamlessly on assorted platforms. Moreover, Xamarin delivers freedom to link native libraries for crafting great apps with good-quality customizations.

Disadvantages

Inevitable software overheads

Despite the fact that Xamarin mobile application development saves time by creating a single app for all platforms, it also involves, on the other hand, code linkage and referencing between target OS environments of different devices in use and .Net frameworks. This implies that such efforts can add to time taken for initiation and downloads of the app.

Time-consuming nature of UI Development

Again, time gets crucial when it comes to UI development on Xamarin platform. Although Xamarin facilitates reusing maximum code across target device platforms, it is hard to create a portable version of core UI. This is why Xamarin app development experts are compelled to perform some portion of coding for independent platform, which demands time.

Issues of App file size

While being beneficial in many ways, Xamarin is also slightly accused of swallowing more time for additional job of adjusting app file size. This is mainly because the generous use of Xamarin’s core libraries and functionality burdens the app stores with unjustifiable app file size. The size margin in the store may range from 3MB to 15MB.

Conclusive Remarks

According to enterprises and developers, Xamarin combines the best of both: native user experience and cross-platform operations. Albeit certain cons, Xamarin mobile app Development Company can still provide you with all the benefit of cross-platform mobile app project like code reuse, a flourishing community of Xamarin professionals and advanced technology of C#. This all-in-one solution platform enables you to build, test and monitor and deploy apps using just one tool. You can opt for Professional Xamarin mobile app development services provider after ensuring that pros of Xamarin outweigh its cons.

Posted on April 9, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

Before, creating an app was a tedious task that takes months of time for professional coders and developers. But now, with the introduction of hybrid mobile app development its now possible for even non-developers to create Android mobile applications with easy to follow steps. As people tend to spend most of their time in mobile phones, its important to have a mobile app for anything and everything. Now as you have such services its possible for anyone to create visually stunning & feature-rich apps without any technical knowledge, with very less or no money and without even a single line of coding.

To make the work easier for you, in this info graphics, we have listed the 11 best and most powerful no-code Android app builder platforms that can help you reach your niche and goals. Take a look…

Posted on April 6, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

As thousands of applications are launched on Google Play store and Apple app store, the demand for business-specific mobile application development is booming huge. Whether it is for iOS or Android platform, the ultimate success of your mobile app depends on the cross-platform technology in use and the development standards to be maintained.

Though Java, Objective-C and Swift were used to write applications in past, the new cross-platform development tools that are making enormous buzz are React Native and Xamarin.

Recently, the question of react native vs xamarin performance has come to interest people active in mobile app development arena. These frameworks not only stimulated the era of highly engaging and performance-oriented mobile apps, but they also transforms coding phenomenon, simplifies development cycle and emerges cost effective for modern businesses.

So who is superior to the other? In the below section of xamarin vs native, we are embarking on finding the answer and will discuss how to make an informed decision.

Xamarin at a Glance

Xamarin was launched in May 2011 and was acquired later by Microsoft. Xamarin was intended for addressing the prevalent issue of disconnected technology to facilitate the native app development using its open source platform.

The framework uses C# language that functions seamlessly across multitude of platforms (Android, iOS, and Windows). Due to its ability to write native UI codebase for mobile app development, more than 1.4 million developers were using Xamarin in the first quarter of the year 2017.

Used by many popular brands, this cross platform app development framework offers competitiveness in building exceptional native app interfaces that effectively surpasses the limitations of hybrid apps.

React Native at a Glance

Introduced by Facebook in 2015, React Native stands out as a cross platform app development technology due to the fact that it uses JavaScript to develop a native mobile app.

The annual survey by Stack Overflow confirms that JavaScript is one of the most illustrious technologies mainly because it involves steel learning curve for developers.

Xamarin vs React Native 2018: Which One Feels Better and When?

When it comes to making a candid, unbiased comparison between React Native and Xamarin cross-platform native app development frameworks, both seems to surpass each other in many situations. Here is what you need to know about their working standard before you can pick the one.

1) Cross-Platform Development Environment

While discussing xamarin vs native, one can easily discover how Xamarin cross platform provides immense flexibility in terms of development environment.

Once can build and compile a code for different platforms with Xamarin unlike React Native that does not offer similar support unless via Expo. However, Expo may not be as powerful since it also has limited support capability.

2) Code Deployment

Xamarin developers will need to opt for compilation to generate an executable file to be tested later on emulator or a device. This process takes good amount of time depending on how complex the project is.

React Native on the other hand enables you to save the code and see results instantly using “hot module replacement”.

Read Also: React Native App Development Company in UK

3) The Question of Choices

Being a JavaScript expert, you will find it easy to get started with building native apps with React Native.

On the other hand, if you are conversant with Microsoft-owned C# expertise, then Xamarin would be the most appropriate choice as you can build iOS and Android apps using C#.

4) Accessibility and Availability

React Native is fully open source framework, so you can use it for building applications for tablet, iOS and Android.

However, when thinking about Xamarin, you need to spend some amount since its free version offers limited resources and features especially for enterprise-grade app development.

5) React native vs Xamarin Performance

As far as React Native vs Xamarin performance goes, significant factors like GUI, 64-bit support and fast code execution matter most.

Xamarin emerges more beneficial for the fact that it allows developers to run the code fastest on both iOS and Android platforms.

It provides full range of support for 64-bit mode and enables rapid UI development because of direct access to native tools.

This factor is not much favourable for React Native as it does not support 64-bit mode on Android completely. Additionally, it gets worse for iOS where it appears to run code at dissatisfying speed.

6) Advanced Capabilities For Development

Xamarin vs React Native must include this critical factor that focuses on which among Xamarin and native offers advanced development capabilities.

Usually, this one goes in favour of React Native as it is JavaScript based and offers more features, making the process more convenient for mobile app developers.

Xamarin, on the other hand, enjoys the reputation of being a legacy or classic tool that does not contain as many snazzy or evolved features in Android studio as carried by JavaScript framework.

Some of them might be automatic restarting, cold swapping code, instant updates, etc.

7) Testing Capabilities

Though you can perform UI testing on both platforms, it is easier for Xamarin developers to do unit testing in Xunit and debug in Xcode Simulator for iOS.

However, with React Native you are compelled to debug in the Android Emulator where issues are likely to occur.

8) Brand Users

React Native has brand users such as Facebook, Instagram, Airbnb, Walmart, Skype whereas Xamarin is used by big names such as Slack, Siemens, Honeywell.

Who Wins the Battle?

Even after exploring all the pros and cons of React Native and Xamarin, it is not easy to conclude that one s better than the other. Developers can decide it based on how accustomed they are with a specific framework.

The Xamarin vs React Native battle is subject to certain aspects of development, maintenance, code sharing and testing, and developer’s personal experience and preferences.

But developers who is familiar with .NET and C# may choose xamarin cross-platform app development. It is after all a matter of opinion as the entire community of developers are split between both frameworks.

Hence, the ultimate choice comes down to what framework a developer is quite comfortable with. No matter what you decide, the native-like look and feel, performance, quality and usability of the end product must come into focus when telling which one wins the battle for you.

Posted on April 2, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

Firebase Security Rules control the access that users of your web apps have to read and write your database. The real-time database rules help determine who can use how much data, the structure of your data and how indexes work. Once defined properly, these rules remain active on Firebase servers and are applied automatically all the time. Users’ request to read and write will be fulfilled only if your rules consider it fair and allowable.

Firebase rules recognize authenticated users and allow them full access to your database by default. This sensible approach keeps at bay undesirable access and protects your database from being abused. You can always customize your rules around authentication, though. However, it is not always easy to set up Firebase security rules to protect database. Let’s learn more about all the necessary tips to use Firebase rules for web apps.

Introduction to Firebase security

Firebase real-time security is comprised of handy tools for web app developers to manage the overall security for the app. With Firebase authentication and validation tools running on server, it becomes easy to:

Authenticate users
Limit their access to database
Define permissions
Validate inputs/functions

The quintessential aspect of Firebase-powered apps is that it handles more client-side code unlike other available technology stack in the market. This ensures that your approach to secure your app is unique and deep with strong protective layers within.

The Central Components of Security Rules

There are three major components to Firebase Security rules:

User identification
Data Access Control
Input Validation (to create, read, update & delete Operations)

Once you know user’s identity through Firebase rules, you are allowed to automatically set restrictions for what action they can perform to the database (such as reading, updating or deleting).

The Firebase authentication process involves two options:

1. Firebase UI Auth: This option along with a few good code lines can help establish a complete sign-in system in your app for Web, iOS and Android. It will ask for user email, password, Google+, Facebook, GitHub, etc.

2. Firebase SDK Authentication: This one allows complete freedom to manage authentication based on your choice. You can also opt for Facebook and Google Sign in as Valid Identity providers.

The successful sign-in gives you access to user’s basic profile which is useful while controlling user’s access to stored data.

Firebase Database Rules

The security of Firebase is attributed to powerful JSON-formatted security language. Due to its great flexibility, you can easily access and define rules in Firebase Console using Database->Rules tab.

Firebase Security Rules structure contains syntax like JavaScript and is divided in four types:

.read: Defines when and if users are allowed to read data.

.write: Determines if and when users can write data.

.validate: It defines a value in a correct format and its child attributes and data type.

.indexOn: Specifies a child to index to support ordering and querying.

Firebase Authentication Process

Identifying your users is a basic and the first step when it comes to securing your app. As all users have unique story and profile, their data and capabilities vary from person to person. In chat apps, users are allowed to create messages and delete them if they wish. Deleting messages sent by other users is impossible, though.

Through firebase authentication, users can sign in to your app. It involves popularly used authentication practices with inherent support for Google, Twitter or Facebook along with email login, anonymous log-in, etc.

Authorization

After identifying users, the next step is to limit and control their access to your database. Firebase authentication and Database Rules can be applied to perform data restrictions in several scenarios such as:

Strictly authenticated users can access(read) data
Authenticated users are allowed to only write to his own node
No one can create a new node except users

Built in variables and functions present in the Firebase security rules allow to refer to other paths, authentication information and server-side timestamps. Using similar format of rule that includes user ID obtained from Firebase authentication, you can also grant write access for authenticated users as well.

Data validation Phase

Owing to seamless nature of Firebase database rules, you can easily tweak and apply changes during development process. However, data should remain consistent once your app is finally ready. The validate rule of Firebase is to bring in validation logic with the same expression as used for .read and .write rules. However, validation rules do not cascade and have to be true for .write to come to effect.

Just like .read and .write rules, you can use the same built-in variables and functions to create Validation rules that know all data locations in your database.

Using Predefined Variables

Firebase has certain predefined variables you can find handy to define security rules that restrict, usher, read, write and validate. A few of them are:

auth: Functions as token payload of authenticated users

root : A node that represents the root path in the Firebase database before the attempted operation.

newData : Contains data that exists after the attempted operation

Data : Contains the data that existed before the attempted operation

now:The current time in milliseconds

$ variables:A wildcard path used to represent ids and dynamic child keys.

Defining database indexes

The Firebase Database security makes it possible to order and query data. Indexes are declared with .indexOn rule.

The data of small sizes do not require indexes during development because of ad hoc querying. However, before the app is launched, it is important to specify indexes for your queries so that it will still work when the app is scaled up.

Conclusion:

This blog was our attempt to show how Firebase Database and security appears and works for mobile app and web developers while creating incredible web apps. Hope you will learn a few tips you may need for your next mobile or web app development project. You can always find more details about how to set up and define different security rules for user authentication, authorization and validation by reviewing Firebase Security Rules. If you are trying to build a highly secure, functional and user-friendly app, you can seek collaborative assistance from our company.

Posted on March 22, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

The use of Google cloud platform is not something new nowadays. A large user base are making use of its possibilities to save the device space and access the data anytime they lost their phone data. Have you heard about Google cloud functions, a joint venture of the Firebase and Google Cloud Platform teams?

Back-end code is often required for web and mobile applications to perform actions such as processing long running tasks or sending out notifications. The back end runs on a server in case of conventional approach. This phenomenon is made a lot easier than you can think by using firebase cloud functions in which the back-end code runs in the cloud.

For new users who would like to learn more about firebase cloud functions, here is an overview of its features, working and implementation, capabilities and other advantages that made it the talking point.

What are Firebase cloud functions?

This server less compute solution from Google is ideal for setting up event driven applications. The cloud functions in fact help to run backend code automatically as a reaction to the triggered events. And cloud functions for firebase is exclusively for firebase developers that enable them to add server-side code to integrate its features. A collaboration of HTTPS requests and Firebase features lets you trigger events. The Google’s cloud will store your code and a managed environment runs it. So you can be free from the role of managing and scaling the servers of your own.

Integration with Firebase platform:

The use of cloud functions together with Admin SDK lets the integration across firebase features. For third party services integration, there is option to write web hooks on your own. As the cloud functions lessen the boilerplate code, it gives way for easily using Google Cloud and Firebase within your function. The written functions can respond well to events by other Google Cloud and Firebase features.

Types of triggers:

When you write a function, it can respond to events created by Google Cloud features and Firebase which are termed as triggers.

Some of the most common triggers include:

Realtime Database Triggers: In this case, users can respond well to changes that occur in the Firebase Real-time Database.
Firebase Authentication Triggers: At the time a user account is created or deleted, code is executed in response through Firebase authentication. This trigger gets invoked in many cases such as a user sets up an account and password, a user signs in for the initial time with federated identity provider and more.
HTTP Triggers: At times of an HTTP request, such triggers are invoked.
Cloud Storage Triggers: A firebase cloud function is executed in case files and folders are uploaded, updated, or deleted in Google Cloud Storage.

Some of the other triggers include Cloud Pub/Sub Triggers, Cloud Firestore Triggers and Crashlytics Triggers.

A function’s lifecycle

The cycle starts off with writing codes for a novel function by the developer. Followed by that, an event provider will be selected. The conditions are then defined according to which the execution of function happens. The function is then deployed by the developer and Firebase takes the role of connecting to the chosen event provider.

Here are the probable step wise happenings of the rest of the function’s cycle:

The code gets evoked once the function’s conditions matches the event generated by event provider
The instances get cleaned up in case the function remains idle
More instances are created by Google in case many events are handled by functions making them busy
Once the updated code gets deployed by developer to update function, the older version instances get cleaned up and new instances replace them
In case the function gets deleted by the developer, it is followed by cleaning up of instances. The connection or link between the event provider and function also gets removed.

Implementation path

This phase involves three main sections including setting up of cloud functions, followed by writing functions and finally deploying and monitoring.

Let us see in detail:

The Firebase CLI is installed at first. In the particular Firebase project, the cloud functions are initialized.

JavaScript code is written in order to manage events from Google Cloud services, Firebase services and other similar event providers.

The functions are finally deployed by making use of the Firebase CLI. The Firebase console can be used to see and look for through the logs.

Privacy and security

It is common that developers look to power over application logic in server in order to keep away from interference from the client side. As here it is completely insulated from the client side; that is not a problem with Firebase cloud functions. You can be sure about keeping up the privacy and follow what exactly is needed.

Zero maintenance

The maintenance part is the headache for the users handling all platforms but the case is different in Firebase cloud functions which has zero maintenance. All what you have to do is to set out your TypeScript or JavaScript code to the servers with just a single command. Firebase will do the rest by automatically scaling up computing resources to synchronize with the users’ usage patterns. Unlike other platforms, there is nothing to think hard regarding server configuration, provisioning new servers, credentials, or decommissioning old server.

Running code in cloud- key benefits:

When the code is running in the cloud instead of the traditional approach, you can come across various advantages:

There is no necessity for you to run your own server and maintain it.
In case of the back-end code, an isolated code base can be used
The billing is done only for the code’s real executing time
High scalability is possible in case of the cloud infrastructure

More use cases with firebase cloud functions:

Apart from the many advantages and benefits when using firebase cloud functions, here you can see the possible user cases:

User notifications are send out at times of events
Welcome email is send out at time of a user sign up
Confirmation emails are send out in case the users subscribe or unsubscribe
In order to make the data base clean and up to date, Real-time Database Tasks are performed which are automated
In case a user deletes his account, the contents are deleted from the database
For a Real-time Database list, the count of elements are tracked
Intensive tasks are executed in the cloud itself and not in your data base
At the time of uploading of an image into the database, thumbnails for the same are generated automatically
Bulk emails can be send to users for particular cases
Even in cases of third party services, integration is possible
In case of insertion of text into the Real-time Database, Google Translate service helps with the translation
Payments are processed in a lot easier way

Firebase cloud functions have in fact set the technology world on fire with its innovative technologies and the way it has positively impacted the whole scenario. In short words, this innovative cloud functions just remain as a folder in your project which contains an index file and their own node modules.

You can simply run your back-end code without giving a second thought. However, organizing them can get messy if you follow an unstructured way. The most accepted solution is to name the files by the way in which it triggers and you can get the most out of this innovative solution.

Posted on March 17, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

Although Android and iOS are wild-grown mobile platforms found in constant rivalry, they are quite different when it comes to security threats and ways to fight them. They are best known for innovative updates that surprise the mobile market, but still none of it is completely secure.

In comparison, Android ecosystem appears to be a little more vulnerable than iOS mainly because Android OS receives updates less frequently. Android devices are more likely to be compromised as Google falls weak to implement on security solutions.

Both Apple and Google put their persistent attempts to design the most viable and secure operating system. However, iOS platform is highly trusted and scores over Android in the arena of security. Here is why:

The Open Source Nature of Android

Being an Open Source platform is Android’s most pleasant yet technically a terrible aspect. Making the Operating System open for all the developers and users for the purpose of gratuitous use often invites hackers to harm the platform with noxious malwares. This facility tends to create perils because:

It increases the chance for an access to ongoing operations in Android platform
Users do not receive expected results in the process of modifying their phone aspects
Hackers find it easy to track and penetrate the Android phone and access the details of your device
Even developers can’t stop attackers from distributing the malware owing to the Open Source state of Android
Google does not have strict standards to apply in order to restrict harmful occurrences of malware attack or data theft

Apple’s Strong Commitment of Security

On the other hand, iOS handles the security challenges pretty pre-emptively blocking any unauthorized access with its solid, impenetrable terms. With Apple, you can enjoy the following benefits:

Not everything in iOS is open source, which limits any chance of abusing services for personal advantage
Apple remains vigilant about possibilities of threats unauthorized access can bring, making it difficult for unexpected bug to break into its iOS system
Apple follows stringent guidelines and service usage terms and conditions when it comes to downloading and tweaking the software
Unlike Google Play store, Apple does not approve and host any app developed by iOS developers, which closes gateway for uninvited problems
With Apple, almost everything follows a predefined system like a religion, which assures its users of its unbreakable commitment of security

iOS Boasts The Enterprise Apps Security

Enterprise mobile apps have enabled business organizations and companies to organize, collaborate and manage all aspects of work, adding efficiency, economy and speed to the system. However, introduction of BYOD approach in enterprises has also spawned data security concerns.

Although developers can create secure area to install enterprise apps and use VPN controllers and data encryption, both platforms are sensitive to security breaches.

iOS defeats Android here too since:

It follows a strong, secure updating and implementation of OS software
It restricts the viewing of data to block any security loophole
It protects the device from third-party intrusion
Contact lists or UDID number remain inaccessible

Android Disappoints On Regular Security Updates

Android is conspicuously inconsistent about updating the OS in a timely fashion. Its progress is fragmented, unreliable and incomplete. This is because:

Users can’t be sure of whether or not they have received latest security patches
It is difficult to say which security hole is patched in your device
Manufacturer has total control over implementing the patch
Careers and manufacturers make the update process slow and vague
Google fails to update the web browser for old Android devices
Android security can be compromised with even MMS

Google has not enforced the implementation of security patches on manufacturers who make hundreds of devices supporting Android OS. This is the reason why Android ecosystem is growing to become a pool of unprotected devices with terrible security holes.

Apple proves to be smart in this: they are clever enough to release a patch and update all existing iPhones with a fresh version, without further involvement of careers.

Great Control & Privacy with iOS platform

What makes iPhones rule the mobile phone market across the world is its promise to give apps that support maximum users’ requirements.

iPhones overwhelm Android devices with its controlled, favourable app permissions. With its improved permission system, iPhone users can now choose the amount and type of data an app can access. For instance, if you don’t want to allow your app to gain access to your personal contacts, messages or other important data, iOS listens and lets you do that.

Apple protects its users by:

Offering well-managed app permissions for enhanced privacy control
Allowing users to see what an app can do a user’s phone
Securing their private data with understandable permissions
Enabling users to enjoy great control over their private data
Always allowing apps from an approved source
Making the entire system less demanding and more friendly for users

Android has less control and more demand

In the beginning, Android offered app permissions that would only allow users to choose whether or not to download the app. On Android, users can only see how much access an app requests and decide to install or not to install.

What makes Android unfavourable is:

Take-it-or-leave-it demand of its apps
Apps enjoy total power to permissions controls
Excessive permissions required for app’s functioning
Uncertainty about the risk of losing your contacts to app’s server
Slow and delayed implementations of permission controls
Limited availability of privacy control

Jailbreak Is Rare with iOS Devices

Due to high-security structure in advanced iOS devices, it is difficult for outsiders, or even iOS app developers, to break the jail of software restrictions. Apple is quite conscious of developers and prefers closed code in its new iPhone models to make the data access even more difficult for iOS apps.

However, this is not the case in Android, which makes its messenger app penetrable for undesirable threats.

Apple’s unbreakable software protection pattern revolves around the following:

Phone lock: In the event of jailbreaking, user’s iPhone will be locked out so that no user data can be accessed by the intruding app.

Closed code: To establish more control over its hardware and software, Apple selects closed code that creates the wall against malicious factors and excessive privacy invasion.

Rigorous approval process: Apple has a tough app store approval process that does not allow automatic algorithm for publishing the app and demands the involvement of the app developer/tester.

Apple Enables Safe Digital Payment System

While talking about OS security, online digital payment becomes important criteria to discriminate the best from the average. Cashless transactions executed through digital devices are in greater demand. However, such payments also involve potential risk of compromising data about bank account and credit cards – which makes users insecure and dubious.

Here also Apple Pay transcends Google Wallet, assuring users with improved technology, unique security features and superior user experience. It offers Touch ID system that requires users to use their fingerprint to authenticate every transaction.

iOS Apps Are Austerely Tested

One needs to be more careful before releasing the app to the app store and making it live. This factor is ensured by the stern standards of mobile app testing as practised by Apple. Apple cannot approve anything before it passes through its attentive eyes. Every aspect of the app is tested before it becomes actually downloadable.

Google still has not reached such austere testing parameters though they follow almost similar policies. Its tests are not as precise and thorough as iOS apps. Hence, Google Play Store is loaded with more releases than Apple store.

The final verdict

So here comes the verdict: iOS seems to defeat Android in the area of data security. Both Android and iOS platforms are trying to trounce each other in the cutting-edge landscape of mobile technology. Despite their merits and demerits, iOS still manages to rule the sphere of digital device especially when it comes to the questions of uncompromised security. Apple practices austere policies for development and testing of apps to deliver satisfying and unblemished user experience. Hence, it is recommended to choose iOS devices if phone security is your first priority.

Posted on March 10, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

Parse is an Open-Source BaaS (Backend-as-a-Service) platform and a part of the Software Development Kit (SDK) that will enable developers to build a mobile backend for all sort of apps. These apps can run on Windows Phone 8, Windows 8, Android and iOS. Parse not only assists developers to deploy apps quickly, it can also effortlessly bring down boiler plate code when attempting to update apps with additional features.

This backend tool named Parse shares its name with Parse Inc., a company that was acquired by Facebook which later announced the closing down of its services by January 2017. Thus, if you are on the lookout for time-tested and reliable substitutes of Parse, here are 13 app development options that can be availed by you in 2018.

1. Appcelerator

If you as a mobile app developer are looking for an all-in-one platform that will become an instrument to churn out mobile API, you can check out Appcelerator. Through Appcelerator, you can not only deliver native apps but also offer real-time analytics. Tagged as a cross-platform tool, Appcelerator employs JavaScript through which developers can offer a host of features to users.

Along with push notifications, you can also stay connected with data sources and provide custom analytics which are linked to User Interface. Founded in 2006, Appcelerator is the new kid on the block of Axway; a B2B company that acquired Appcelerator.

2. Built.io

Promising integrated platforms and back-end services, Built.io helps mobile app developers come up with amazing user experiences. Launched in 2007, Built.io can be deployed on VMware vCloud Air, Amazon Web Services and IBM SoftLayer. While this is an MBaaS platform, you can also churn out content management solutions through Built.io.

Incorporating pluggable architecture that facilitates custom-made projects, it is through Built.io that you can meet your business needs. You can bank upon this back-end choice to come up with APIs that can be connected with the overall ecosystem of enterprises.

3. AnyPresence

Launched in 2010, AnyPresence is an enterprise platform facilitating digital transformation. It is through its BaaS concept that developers can come up with cross-platform applications. Allowing you to offer application programing interfaces, AnyPresence has been making its strong presence felt as a patronized enterprise-level app.

A higher-level enterprise coupled with strong customer support and developer features are the hallmark of this tool.

4. Kii

Recognized as a single-window full stack platform for all your app and smart device requirements, Kii is poised to deliver greater user experiences. You can employ the mobile backend services of Kii to deliver scalable and high-performing mobile apps that can run on multiple operating systems.

Kii is a comprehensive option which can help you develop, scale and test alongside optimize your requirements and implement them. With Kii, you can substantially cut down your mobile app development period, which in turn helps you cut down operational and developmental costs.

5. CloudMine

If you are looking to build a healthcare application in a short time without any financial hardships, then CloudMine can be your top bet. All thanks to the Micro-services and SDKs offered by CloudMine that you can not only cut down your development time but can also secure your data storage.

Tagged as a Platform-as-a-Service option, CloudMine brings to the table a host of features including advanced analytics, big data processing, data normalization, real-time streaming and self-serviced data recovery. Partnering with Apprenda, a PaaS provider, CloudMine which was launched in 2011 is a top choice for building engaging mobile apps that are driven to add value to your healthcare business.

6. Appery

Next in the list of alternatives to Parse is Appery; a choice that will help you create new RESTful APIs which require very little programming in MySQL, SAP, Oracle, SharePoint or LDAP. Identified as an Enterprise Level MBaaS platform, Appery helps you come out with secure, reliable and scalable online apps that can be seamlessly deployed across premise servers.

Proud of its state-of-the-art technologies, Appery can become your first choice to build mobile web apps and hybrid apps that promise a superior user experience. Catering to the development needs of over 300,000 global developers, Appery offers MBaaS mobile backend services along with server code, push notifications and database functions.

7. Kony

In keeping with the next-gen needs of the banking industry, Kony which was incorporated in 2007 offers digital banking experiences through its industry-specific apps. Tagged as a leading enterprise mobility company, Kony makes its strong presence felt in the sphere of mobile application development. Kony is a trusted name amongst global banking clients looking to offer custom-made digitized solutions.

While you can build multi-channel apps with Kony, you can also deliver them at a rocket speed. Mindful of agility, flexibility and security, Kony comes as a blessing to financial institutions through its unique Mobile Fabric MBaaS Integration feature.

8. Telerik

To offer modern User Interface (UI) to all its clients is the unwritten promise kept up by Telerik at all times. Through Telerik, you can build up-to-date user interface for mobile apps. Making use of JavaScript and .Net, Telerik blends the capabilities of productivity and reporting tools that are patronized by over 2.1 million developers from across the globe.

Set up with stringent security and encryption measures, Telerik can handhold enterprises eyeing to scale their operations. Global giants like Dell, Microsoft, Sony and IBM are the esteemed clients of Telerik.

9. Kumulos

If it is your dream to deliver simple yet affordable and powerful mobile apps through an effective mobile app performance platform, then Kumulos can be your top choice. Identified as a one-stop-shop to manage the performance of commercial and technical mobile apps, Kumulos helps you derive the best business results.

Through push notifications, you can assist your clients build and implement marketing campaigns that will attract the attention of new customers. Incorporating the Backend-as-a-Service concept, Kumulos is built on MBaaS technology has the support of KScript, RESTful API and Hookup as part of mobile SDK.

10. Kinvey

Another alternative that is very close to the functionalities of Parse is Kinvey; a leading mobile app development platform. Established in 2010, Kinvey can build mission-specific apps which can digitize your entire business without any hassles.

Kinvey brings a lot to your table in the form of Cloud storage, customized business logic and push notifications.

11. FireBase

Firebase comes with a plethora of benefits. With a commitment to deliver better mobile apps that will help you grow your business, FireBase keeps up this promise at all times. Built on Google infrastructure, FireBase provides databases, analytics along with crash reporting and messaging services.

For all those developers who are looking to sync their web-based and mobile apps with real-time data, Firebase comes as a top pick. Along with authentication, Firebase offers static hosting; a feature that makes it a typical replacement for Parse.

12. SkyGear

Looking to build apps on a reliable backend? Then, look no further and sign up with Skygear; an open-source SDK for web, IoT and mobile apps. Equipped with a plethora of backend functions, Skygear, an MBaaS platform simplifies the task of adding new features to your existing apps. The luxury of building apps faster makes Skygear stand out from other platforms. It is through a simple click that you can launch your application, without getting bogged down by deployment issues.

With Skygear as a perfect substitute for Parse, you can add a long list of reusable plugins and effortlessly code chat apps along with messenger bots and social platforms.

13. Backendless

Founded in 2012, Backendless is another MBaaS platform that can substitute Parse. If you are looking to develop mobile apps backed by a powerful cloud backend, then it is time you check out the functionalities of Backendless. Offering a perfect blend of reliable and secure hosting services, Backendless delivers the best file storage solutions to its clients. With Backendless, you can not only generate dynamic content but can also store static files.

Specially designed for enterprisesrunning on venture capital, Backendless offers scalable app solutions that not only streamline but also accelerate your application development.

Closing Thoughts

It will not be an overstatement to quote that the mobile app development is a limitless domain, characterized by rapid changes. Poised for an exponential growth, this territory of mobile app development is dictated by state-of-the-art tools which will eventually push the demand for mobile apps. Since Parse is no longer an option to you, you as a developer will benefit a great deal by weighing the benefits of the above-mentioned tools that will come handy in 2018.

Posted on February 13, 2018 by rbsupadminnextjssite

Kotlin has emerged as a sterral new programming language for Android app development as Google has approved Kotlin as the second official Android language at I/O conference. Kotlin community is flourishing, which means that now Java isn’t your only resort even though many android apps are written in Java. JetBrains have introduced this compelling programming language Kotlin that runs and is compatible on Java Virtual Machine.

In this article, we will go a little deep into why you being an Android app developer need to make a switch from Java to Kotlin and how certain features of Kotlin as a programming language can power-charge your Android app development. In the end you will realize the benefits of moving to Kotlin and decide what could be a better choice for you.

About Kotlin:

Kotlin is a static general-purpose programming language designed for JVM and JavaScript. Built to improve coding efficiency and development productivity, Kotlin contains many features that promote lucidity, interoperability and versatility.

So far Kotlin has achieved glory and fame due to its distinctive ability to enhance coding experience and eliminate certain drawbacks that Java offers to developers. The purpose for creating Kotlin was to increase productivity of android app developers in a practical and effective manner.

Some of its features are:

Incorporates both Object oriented and functional programming
Support for high-order functions and types
Enables developers to incorporate both OO and FP forms
Powers mixed-language operations
Full compatibility with Java and Objective C
Much improved syntax and concise abstractions
Supports usability with Android, web and server development

The chief purpose of Kotlin is to enable Android developers to work on mixed-language projects using its compatibility with Java and Objective C so that developers can relish broader learning curve.

The Emergence of Kotlin/Native

To allow developers to leverage universal language across all platforms, JetBrains has released Kotlin/Native that enables inter-platform coding. Since Kotlin/Native runs on LLMV compiler infrastructure, developers can easily write platform-specific components and reuse them on any platform it supports. It gives access to Objective-C API on iOS platform so that developers can also write iOS apps in Kotlin.

Kotlin/Native is not completely ready as the development of compiler, library and runtime is still a work in progress. When fully mature, Kotlin will have consistent interoperability of code and build common libraries.

Prime advantages of Kotlin over Java

Although developers are quite accustomed to Java, it also suffers many critical drawbacks. Kotlin seems to surpass them all with its significant benefits such as:

The comfort of Succinct Code:

Unlike Java where developers are compelled to write bigger forms, Kotlin proves to be succinct for the same code results. By enabling Android developers to avoid redundant lines and syntax while coding the app, Kotlin saves them from meeting complications or entering the room of errors.

With Kotlin’s concise nature:

Same functions can be written in less code
Occurrences of bugs are greatly brought down
The code lines remain quite uncompromised when it comes to clarity and cleanliness
Coders save almost half the efforts put in composing Java code lines
You can observe much more brevity, more power and productivity as a developer
The amount of boilerplate code is significantly reduced
Coding experience in is much more enjoyable for Kotlin developers

Having succinct code becomes especially important when Android app specialists have to handle much larger and demanding projects than simple Android apps.

On the other hand, Java code snippets are relatively long-winded even for the same output or computing function. This results in consumption of more time and strenuous job for Android developers to craft a single function for the app.

Interoperability and Versatility:

This is one of the surprising quality of Kotlin that fascinate any Java developer. In Kotlin, modules can be simply written in a way that immaculately fits into existing Java code. All that is required is emitting Bytecode so that Kotlin compiler can have the two languages work harmoniously in the same development project.

This is termed as interoperability that allows you to try Kotlin in a small portion of your existing project. Kotlin and Java classes co-exist without having developers convert entire coding in Kotlin.

Also if you wish to continue with Kotlin, migrate the completed Java code to Kotlin or alternatively leave the Java code in its original form and build new features and class with Kotlin. The interoperability is so seamless users will not have any clue about parts that are written either in Java or Kotlin.

Android apps developers can even use Java libraries in Kotlin development making the language a most versatile option for building Android apps.

Easy Learning Curve:

Before learning any new language updates, developers often dread how much time and energy it may consume before they are thorough with it. Kotlin does not disappoint those who want to learn coding fast since you just spend a few good hours reading the language references to be able to use it. This is because:

Kotlin acts as a Java enhancement enabling developers to use their polished Java skills in Android projects
Kotlin has lean, lucid and intuitive syntax offering easy learning curve to Java developers
Kotlin and Java classes can exist and work in the same project
It is Intelligible and so easy-to-read that even an unforeseen code can be interpreted quickly

Programmers find Kotlin flexible as they do not need to convert the existing project into Kotlin or work afresh on a new project with Kotlin.

Android Studio Support:

JetBrains who developed Kotlin is also behind IntelliJ, which is responsible for the existence of Android Studio – which means developers will have sufficient support from Android Studio. All you need to do is install Kotlin plugin and Kotlin will be configured in your current project in a few straightforward steps.

Kotlin users can easily understand and run its code once once the plugin is installed. Some of the development areas where Android studio offers support are:

Auto-completion
Debugging
Unit testing
Code navigation
Refactoring

You can even convert your existing Java source file into Kotlin code with Android support at lightning pace.

Ensured Safety

The main cause of Android development errors NullPointException is eliminated in Kotlin since Kotlin system comes with in-built safety measure. Usually, null represents the absence of value, but it can cause the app to go dysfunctional. Kotlin has inherent null protection which saves developers extra effort to write code to address the problem.

No problem of raw types

Usually, raw types were used too often to help ensure backwards compatibility. However, raw types also caused the error of CastClassException during execution but it did not occur in compiling stage. Kotlin resolved the issue by forbidding raw types and improved coding efficiency.

Checked Exceptions are purged

In Java programming, checked exception feature is unnecessary and annoys developers with empty catch blocks. It misinforms developers to identify a non-existent exception in coding. Again, Kotlin eliminated them completely to reduce code density and increase type safety and productivity.

Does adoption of Kotlin mean a farewell to Java?

To answer this, let’s first mention the enormous brands that have converted to Kotlin. Some of them are:

Pinterest
Netflix
Amazon
Uber
Trello

Such adoption of great scale means Kotlin is definitely considered as a superior choice in programming language for Android apps development.

Still, Java is a highly reputed programming language for many years and offers a bounty of open-source tools and libraries to assist and support developers.

Kotlin’s Unfavourable Cons:

No programming language is impeccable. Though Kotlin is growing more stable and popular, there are certain cons about Kotlin:

The issue of Runtime Size

Due to Standard library and runtime of Kotlin, your .apk size will go up by extra 800KB. This may become a problem for applications having large size since users don’t download large-sized apps.

Limited help of community

Android studio does support Kotlin users, but Google is still not the official supporter of Kotlin. Moreover, since the language is still new and emerging, the community is quite smaller compared to beloved Java. Kotline may not offer the same amount of tutorials, documentation, blogs and community support. This might be a heavy disadvantage for Kotlin starters.

Conclusion

Kotlin has certainly taken the world of Android app development by storm mainly due to its innovative coding benefits. As a JVM-compatible language, Kotlin is undoubtedly beneficial to developers and better than Java when it comes to speed, efficiency and clarity of Java coding. But the decision of whether or not to switch entirely to Kotlin depends on the project requirements and suitability of developers.