Where to Start

So, you want to be a mobile developer. Where do you start? What language do you learn? What platform do you use? Should you develop for iOS or Android?

Well, it depends on where you’re starting from. If you are comfortable in java, then I’d start with Android. If you don’t have access to a Mac, then definitely start with Android. Just know that, unless you are willing to restrict yourself to one platform, you’re eventually going to have to work in both iOS and Android. There are still places where you can specialize in just one platform, but an ability to work in both platforms will give you more flexibility. You’re also going to want to become familiar with at least the basics of front end type development (HTML, css, and javascript to start with as a bare minimum.)

You just need to pick one to start with. Ideally you want to have an actual device you can test your code on as well. And if you aren’t planning on specializing in one platform, then I strongly suggest making sure you have experience using both iOS and Android physical devices. And by using, I mean carrying them around and using them for your regular daily tasks.

If you’re starting as a front end developer, you’re probably going to be tempted to use one of the hybrid type tools available such as Ionic, or whatever is popular at the moment. Pick one you like and learn it. And then, I strongly recommend learning at least the basics of how to develop native code on at least one platform. The hybrid tools can be very useful, but chances are good that you will eventually run into something that will require dropping down to the native code. And if you learn how the native code works, you’ll be in a better position to understand what’s going on with the hybrid code when things get weird.

Get your development environment set up and find yourself a tutorial that you like and can understand. If you’re not sure where to start, Ray Wenderlich’s site (https://raywenderlich.com) is not a bad place to begin, but there are lots of options out there. Once you’ve got a tutorial or two under your belt, come up with your own idea for an app. It can be simple and silly, just so long as it gives you incentive to learn more things. The most important thing is to start.