Key Takeaways:
- AI and ML are reshaping user experiences and app functionalities.
- 5G technology is enabling immersive experiences and real-time data processing.
- Swift language advancements are improving development processes and app performance.
- IoT is connecting devices and enhancing automation across various sectors.
- PWAs are bridging the gap between web and mobile experiences.
The mobile app development space is always changing. A day hardly goes by that we don’t witness a new trend knocking on the door. For developers, keeping up with these changes can become overwhelming. We have done thorough research and came up with the top trends that will dominate the year 2024.
It starts with AI, which, like other sectors, also impacts the iOS app development industry with new advancements. Moving on, the expansion of 5G across the globe and its fusion with apps are assisting developers to come up with innovative technologies like VR and AR.
Swift language advancements are allowing iOS developers to work on cross-platform mobile app development. IoT apps give users extra access and control on their home devices and equipment, creating a sense of ease. Another top iOS trend is progressive web apps that offer seamless mobile and web app integration.
Top 5 iOS App Development Trends in 2024
iOS app development means building apps for the Apple operating system. Apple products such as iPhones, iPads and iMacs use this ecosystem for their operations. Every year, the number of iOS apps is rising, and iOS developers across the globe make significant contributions to this innovative software. iOS app development is an evolving process with new trends changing the way new apps operate and interact with their users.
Following are the top 5 iOS app development trends that are going to dominate 2024.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- 5G Technology and Enhanced Connectivity
- Swift Language Advancement
- Internet of Things (IoT) and Connected Devices
- Progressive Web Apps for iOS
Let’s dig deeper into the top iOS app development trends in 2024 to help developers so that they can keep on creating wonderful mobile apps.
1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are the latest iOS app development trends of 2024. Their contribution isn’t limited to iOS app development. They play a key role in the overall development of mobile apps.
With more people and organizations joining the wave of AI, it is becoming affordable and accessible for developers. This unique collaboration of AI and iOS app development has expanded the horizon of mobile app development.
Apple announced its brand new concept, ‘Apple Intelligence’. It works by harnessing the power of dynamic Apple silicon to comprehend and generate language and images, take in-app actions and simplify and expedite daily tasks using personal context. Let’s understand each new update one by one:
Next-Generation Language AI: Apple intelligence opens up new avenues for users to write and communicate, and it’s better. Apps like Notes, Pages, Mail and similar third-party apps will support these features. You can change the tone of words to be identical to the built-in functionalities of these apps powered by AI. Priority messages or emails are another cool feature where AI will prioritize your messages and notify you accordingly. Moreover, you can record, transcribe, and summarize audio using the Notes and Phone apps. Isn’t that helpful?
Reimagine Visual Communication: Image Playground is what Apple is calling its new in-app built-in feature that lets you create fun photos in seconds. It gives users the freedom to express themselves as they like through AI-powered images. Furthermore, these new features take communication to the next level by suggesting concepts based on the discussion going on in the Messaging application. In the Notes app, Image Wand allows palette tools to enhance notes visualization. This feature is also available in apps like Freeform, Keynote and Pages.
AI-Powered iOS Voice Bot Apps / Chatbots: A voice bot like Siri is the latest advancement in the app development space. Businesses leverage chatbots to increase sales and customer retention. Siri has also become more advanced with AI integration. Now, it can help users auto-complete their queries by understanding the search intent. You can also switch between voice and text to communicate with the new upgrades to this voice bot. Intelligent Siri will deliver the results tailored to the user and device information.
2. 5G Technology and Enhanced Connectivity
In 2024, the future of iOS app development is looking significantly transformed with 5G technology integration. 5G is way faster than 4G, with a speed averaging around 100 megabytes per second. It comes with multiple benefits, such as lower latency, faster data transmission and enhanced network reliability. New avenues of mobile app development have opened that allows developers to build features and functionalities that only a faster internet could support.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the outstanding results of 5G and iOS mobile app development integration:
5G-Optimized iOS Apps: The impact of 5G, in combination with cutting-edge iOS mobile app development technology, has been game-changing in optimizing wireless networks both for speed and enhanced coverage. This revolution in emerging iOS app technologies is qualifying developers sitting in Asia to deliver notable user experience. iOS apps can now process and transfer data swiftly, which maximizes user interaction and minimizes the delay. It offers users an unparalleled experience with almost no network limitations and introduces modern ways of innovation.
Utilizing 5G for Operating Modern Tech: Cloud-based computing enabled by 5G and integrated with iOS apps has amplified mobile capabilities. Whether you are working on documents, accessing cloud storage, or live streaming, 5G provides seamless interactions. Furthermore, with 5G in the game, developers can work on the latest technologies, such as VR, AR and AI and their seamless operations across iOS applications. With such top iOS app trends beginning to surface in the development space will surely produce stupendous results in the future of this technology.
For a closer look at the implications of 5G on tech, check out our article on cloud security trends
3. Swift Language Advancement
One of the top iOS app development trends of 2024 includes Swift language advancement. The language is getting faster and more reliable with new contributions and upgrades helping developers build quality iOS apps. Let’s explore the changes in the Swift language shaping the iOS app development infrastructure:
SwiftUI allows seamless integration across all mobile app development platforms. Its native integration and declarative syntax simplify the development process for iOS app developers. While it comes with multiple benefits, using SwiftUI in cross-platform application development also creates challenges. These issues can be resolved by forming a design system of reusable parts, dividing UI into multiple parts, and regularly testing the mobile application.
Swift 6 has been announced by Apple, and is expected to be available for use in September 2024. Its impact is going to be transformative for iOS app development. Developers can expect enhanced syntax and performance coupled with testing and debugging abilities. Furthermore, once the Swift 6 rolls out, it will reach more developers who, in turn, will develop diverse and innovative iOS applications.
4. Internet of Things (IoT) and Connected Devices
IoT has augmented user experience with wearable gadgets and automation of the home, changing mobile connectivity in the future. The Internet of Things is a collection of devices that works via app development infrastructure, allowing communication between the cloud and devices. Mobile app development technology has also moved forward owing to this advancement of IoT.
HomeKit is an iOS app that allows users to control the devices connected to their homes using mobile phones or tablets. It is an easy integration with benefits such as ease for users and more authority on home devices. The inclusion of this trend in the list of top iOS app development trends shows the rising value of automation and connectivity in homes and living spaces.
IoT in industry and healthcare is leading the way in enhancing productivity and efficiency. Medical equipment can get lost or misplaced at times, which makes it hard to locate, but with IoT, things become easy to find. Similarly, in the mobile application development industry, devices utilizing IoT track equipment performance, streamline operations and help in proactive maintenance.
5. Progressive Web Apps for iOS
PWAs are dominating the iOS app development space in 2024. You can enjoy app experience directly from the browser. It has potential to enhance accessibility and boost engagement by creating an interactive experience for the users. It has great advantage with offering versatility for web based mobile apps adjusted to iOS app development.
PWAs on iOS: Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) provide a cost-effective and efficient alternative to native iOS apps. They require less storage, are easily accessible via browsers, and offer cross-platform compatibility. PWAs also function offline, ensuring seamless user experiences even in low-connectivity situations.
Developing PWAs with Safari Technologies: Building PWAs with Safari technologies allows developers to deliver app-like experiences directly in the browser. Despite the manual installation process, leveraging Safari’s support for modern web standards enhances features like offline access and push notifications. This approach increases user engagement and ensures consistency across iOS devices, contributing to a more versatile mobile app development ecosystem.
Conclusion: The Future of iOS App Development in 2024
The iOS app development landscape in 2024 is marked by transformative trends. AI and ML integration is revolutionizing user experiences, enabling smarter app functionalities. The expansion of 5G technology is unlocking new possibilities for developers, facilitating the creation of immersive experiences. Swift language advancements are streamlining development processes and improving app performance.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is connecting devices and enhancing automation in various sectors. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are bridging the gap between web and mobile experiences, offering accessible interactions.
These trends highlight the dynamic nature of the iOS app development landscape and underscore the importance for developers to stay informed and adapt to these evolving technologies.