Smart phone market is growing like a fire in the industry. The experts and trade analysts have already estimated that it will be even bigger in shape this year as well. Almost every day, there is something happening in the industry like introduction of a new handset or release of a new version or update of a version or even all together!! In this situation, there are three major smart operating system dominating the industry Android, iOS and Windows 8.1. Among them, Google’s Android is at the top of the list with highest market share of around 60-70% and it still increases with every passing day. With such a huge market, it creates a favourable environment for the hackers to show their so called talent in the industry through various virus malware applications. Let’s see what are the conditions that make android platform vulnerable than ever before.
Popularity of Android is tremendous: Usually a hunted mind hunts for something that is very popular; because he can gain his unpopularity on the backbone of popularity of the same. If there are billions of android users and a person spreads a virus into the eco system, then he will reach to a billion users with one chance!! So, it prompts him to attack a bigger eco system just like android so that he can reach at maximum number of users in less effort.
There are many third party market places for android apps other than Google Play Store: This is yet another possible reason for the vulnerability of android platform!! There are many portals other than Google’s authentic Play store to provide different apps for android platform. Well, when it is Google, there are many security measures are adopted before an app get launched into the android eco system; but, this is not the case in other unauthentic platforms. These portals work like an easy entrance for those hackers; because, there are no security checks for the apps required and hence they can put their viral app for the innocent android users. Once the android user comes under the trap of these viral apps, it will spread like fire in the industry.
Still large scales of devices run on older android versions: Everyone knows and believes that the latest version comes with many bug fixes and improvements for the end user!! But, there is a huge gap between what we believe and what we do!! Isn’t? It may be a circumstance driven or whatever; but, at the end of the day, we have to pay huge for the same. In Android eco system, there are huge shares of older android versions in the smart devices. Moreover, I would like to inform you that the latest android version devices are less in number to that of older versions. It may be due to lack of infrastructure; I mean the hardware specification of a device that prevents you from upgrading your OS. But, it’s not in every case; many times we find this because of marketing policies of the industry. Whatever the reason may be, this tempts the hackers to have a bad eye on your device and making you the victim for their next adventure!!
Mindfire Solutions was one of the first companies in India to launch Android application development when the official Android SDK was released. Our Android App Development Team has experience in developing apps in all Android versions, starting from Froyo to Lollipop. If you have any custom app development needs or you need to upgrade existing app to the recent Android version, you can hire senior Android App developers and as a limited period offer, you can avail our Risk-Free Trial Offer. Similarly, you can avail the services of our Android App Testing team to test existing or new Android Apps.
Like big brands, small and local businesses can reap several benefits by launching custom mobile apps. But each business has to invest time, effort and money to create its own dedicated mobile app. Each business, however, has option to increase productivity by downloading the right Android apps. Along with facilitating business operations and communication, the Android business apps will further help businesses in staying connected with their customers.
7 Essential Business Apps for Android Devices in 2015
1) Microsoft Office for Android Tablet: As the name indicates, the app is the full-featured version of Microsoft Office from Android tablets. The Android app enables users to access Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook Preview on their tablets. Further, the users have option to use Microsoft's OneDrive cloud-storage platform to store and access their files anytime and anywhere. The app makes it easier for easier to access their normal business documents without using any additional tools.
2) Google Drive: Google Drive is a solid and free cloud-storage option for Android devices. The app makes it easier for users to store a variety of files online and access them anywhere. The application enables users to access documents, photos, videos and PDFs on the go. Further, they have option to share the files and folders with other users, while allowing them to edit and comment.
3) Google Docs, Sheets and Slides: Google boosts the user’s productivity by providing its own apps like Docs, Sheets and Slides. Docs is the word processor, Sheets is the spreadsheet editor, and Slides is the presentation maker. In comparison to other office apps, these applications have better features, along with cleaner and more attractive interface. As the Google files are compatible with Microsoft Office files, it becomes easier for user to transfer their business information to the Google Drive from the desktop computer and mobile devices. The user can further edit the files offline when there is no internet connection.
4) Skype: As a hugely popular instant messaging and video calling application, Skype does not need any introduction. The Android version of Skype makes it easier for users to meet and stay connected with their employees and customers by making video calls. The front-facing camera of Android devices further makes it easier for users to make video calls without any hassle. At the same time, the business owners can also use the Skype app to make low cost calls to landlines and mobile devices.
5) Microsoft’s Remote Desktop App: The small business owners need to access the work resources stored on their desktop computers frequently. Microsoft has launched the app to make it easier for users to access to their PC remotely through Android devices. The app further enables them to access the work resources stored on the PC through a secure and reliable connection. So it becomes easier for business owners to access and edit the full desktop version of work resources anytime and anywhere.
6) Square Register: The business app’s point-of-sales features enable users to start, run and grow their businesses on the go. Along with keeping track of sales and inventory, the Android application can also be used to view business analytics, customize products, record cash or gift card receipts, and send receipts through email or text message. The users residing in USA can further use the app to accept credit card payment through a specially designed credit card reader dongle.
7) Expense Manager: As the name signifies, the Android business app enables business owners to keep track of their budgets and expenses. The users also have option to track their income and expenses on a weekly, monthly or yearly basis. They can further use the app to schedule payments and recurring payments, receive payment alerts, and take picture of receipts. The Expense Manager app also supports multiple accounts and multiple currencies.
On the whole, each user has option to choose from loads of Android apps. The user can further consider using the free Android business apps to become more productive without incurring additional expenses. The Android App developers must select the right open source Android development tools to create high-performing and user-friendly apps without increasing project overheads.
We provide Android App development services. To hire Android developer from us, please reach out to us at Mindfire Solutions.
Google adopted a completely different approach to roll out Android Lollipop 5.0. Instead of organizing a grand event to launch the version 5.0 of the mobile operating system, Google promoted its features through the Android website and a number of blogs. But many analysts recently predicted that the market share of Android Lollipop will rise in Q2 2015 with the mobile devices from major manufacturers hitting the market during the period. That is why; it is important for users to understand some of the most important features of Android 5.0 to optimize their experience.
Some of the Most Important Features of Android Lollipop 5.0
Material Design: Google has build Lollipop using a completely revamped design language, i.e. Material Design. Google had further extended Material Design to its mobile operating system, services and applications. The Material Design provides a cleaner and lighter look to the updated version of Google mobile operating system, while making it look fresh and distinct. The designed interface is the first thing that each user will notice after updating to Android Lollipop.
Volta: Android 5.0 further improves a device’s battery life drastically by taking advantage of the new initiative by Google called Volta. As Volta is hardwired into Lollipop, it runs deep inside the mobile operating system. At the same time, it uses Job Scheduler and similar APIs to control how the device performs specific tasks, and how it behaves while remaining inactive. The feature makes Volta effective in enhancing the battery life of various mobile devices.
Voice Command System: Android Lollipop enables users to give voice commands if their devices support the feature. The users also have option to say "Ok Google" when the device is inactive, and make the device wake. Once the device is active, they can use voice commands to send text messages or initiating web searches. However, they have to active the Voice Input option from the device’s system settings.
Face Unlock: Lollipop further makes it easier for users to secure their devices and sensitive data through the Face Lock feature. The user can visit Security > Smart Lock > Trusted Face, and make the system recognize his face. After saving the setting, he can access the device and files without further security checks. Each time the screen is activated the system will identify the user’s face, and allow him to access the device. The entire authentication can be further completed by the system in just a few seconds.
Lock Screen Notifications: Lollipop completely alters the look and feel of Android lock screen. But it enables user to see his personal notifications directly on the lock screen. Each time the user switches his device on; he can immediately see the notifications waiting. He also has option to dismiss the notification simply by swiping it horizontally in any direction. Also, he can open the notification by tapping on it twice.
Priority Mode: The feature is identical to iOS’s "Do Not Disturb" feature. But Google has implemented the feature in a smarter way. A user can avail the feature to choose the specific apps that can disturb him when the system is in Priority Mode. He also has option to set the duration for the notification to be included in normal notification. Thus, it becomes easier for users to keep track of important notifications.
Pin Apps Mode: Often a user has to allow others to use his mobile device. While allowing others to use his mobile device, the user has to explore ways to keep his pictures, messages and similar personal information secure. Android Lollipop enables users to solve the problem by enabling the Pin Apps mode. The mode keeps the private and sensitive information stored on a device inaccessible by adding an extra layer of security. Each time others try to access the locked apps, the system will ask them to enter the passkey.
On the whole, Android Lollipop 5.0 comes with loads of new features and enhancements, along with a completely different look and feel. The users can simply buy the latest Android handsets available in the market to avail the updated version of Android. Each user must spend some time to understand the new features of the popular mobile operating system to get a real sense of it. To get maximum benefits of Android development, you may consider hiring services of an Android App development company.
If you want to know more about our Android App development expertise or you want to hire Android developers, please contact us at sales[@]mindfiresolutions[.]com. We will be glad to help you.
Mobile development has come a long way and still surprising users with its smart features and functions. Looks like technology promises to introduce new and more innovative products at a rapid pace, there by creating room for many developers to make huge mistakes which could harm their product or even their entire business. After all programmers are humans and humans are prone to making errors.
Designing a mobile app is very challenging. One has to keep in mind lot of things in order to develop a mobile app. First of all should have easy layout so that users find it easy to use the app in their Smartphones. Usability is an important factor for an android app development. The more it is handy and easy to use, more number of customers will be attracted. Easy navigation, displaying neat messages and laying out useful rules of how to use an app is very important so that it will keep the users glued of using any app for a longer time.
There are various reasons why a company may want to create an app. For example, some businesses use apps as an extension of their business. Others may want to develop an app as a main product or service. Whatever the reason, here are twelve critical app development mistakes every small business owner should avoid. They are as follows:
1. Varied Users Varied Smartphones – Apps should meet compatibility: It is not that android users are being favored, but at the same time one should ask the developer to create apps which matches with the existing features of several mobile phones. For example an Apple's iPhone has allowed certain apps which can be freely downloaded from Blackberry and Android. An android app developer needs to choose the best software which can be suitable for even the mobile used by common men and not only for expensive models.
2. Users advise is needed at each step of building an app: Interaction with user-flows is very important while developing critical business applications. The decisions made at the design stage can ultimately determine an app's success or failure. Every business app should meet its requirement.
3. Inadequate knowledge of mobile development: Understand the software development tools, without having an in-depth understanding & knowledge about the Android SDK and similar other tools, one will not be able to create even a simple mobile app leave alone a powerful android application. There are tons of resources available on the web, which offer complete guidance for developing a mobile application for Android devices. The very first version of an app should use an easy-to-operate, intuitive, user interface. The UI should preferably be such that the user learns to use it quickly, without having to refer to the user manual. The UI needs to be simple and precise and well-laid-out.
Every users with any age group should be able to enjoy the basic features of their mobile device. Hence, most users are not looking for a UI that is over-the-top and very difficult to understand. Users prefer apps where every aspect, including each screen, each button and each function is well defined and rendered on screen in such a way as to make their lives simple for them.
4. Non consistent user interfaces: There are many ground-breaking apps with complicated UIs and multi-touch gestures, which have become the craze amongst the latest generation of mobile device users. In case one wants to develop such an app, it would be a good idea to also include a detailed requirements and how to section in an app. An app must have UI consistent and homogeneous through all the future versions of app, so that end users need not be adjusting to different types of UIs in the coming app updates. They should be confusing and where they can easily leave the apps in no time.
5. Fail to understand the needs of common users may fail your business: As a developer must understand what an app should do, its unique functions and in what particular way one wants to serve its business users. Simply building an app that tries to take advantage of all these multiple functions will not help an app in any way. At least the very first version of an app should only focus to meet the immediate needs of the user or the company that one is developing the app for. Focus sharply on target audience while initially creating an app. Adding more features in the upcoming versions of the app, like constantly updating an app. This itself will make it more popular among the users.
6. Not Focusing on Security: Security is very important for any business application irrespective of whether one is developing an android or iphone app. An enterprise app provides users access to sensitive business information, couple this with the fact that mobile devices can get lost easily or stolen and a mobile app needs to stand up to the most stringent standards of scrutiny. App usability and security must be the main focus of attention while developing an app for enterprise. All passwords should be encrypted form.
7. Overthinking the Development: Mobile apps need to be designed in a simple way. While developing a mobile app, it needs to be developed in precisely the same way that one develops any other app. The stages of app development remain the same, if you over think, you are liable to make mistakes. If you focus on the app’s objectives and take it through a development life cycle whose sole purpose is to cater to these objectives, one will have a great app on your hands.
8. Neglecting social media: Integrating Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, etc. in an app is important today. Social media enhances power to spread the word about an app. Any money spent here is money one can save in marketing. Social recognition is very important for any successful business app be it for small mid-size or large business owners.
9. Unclear on app monetization: An app is a basic need for any business application today. A business owner should have a clear idea about how an app is going to help business make money, then only make a decision to create an app. Will it be free app with an ad-based model, or will it be a paid app? Will free app be made available with an in-app purchase? One should be aware of the monetization before one gets started.
10. Neglecting app testing: Applications be it desktop or mobile should be tested thoroughly. Always a tester should look into users perspective and test the application. Every developer should do a unit testing, before he sends it to quality analyst, to troubleshoot and resolve most bugs.
11. Minimizing the value of marketing: An app should be appealing, there are almost a million other apps available on the market and how your app should stand unique. This is where marketing comes into play. You shouldn’t expect your brilliant app to do well without marketing. Your job does not end with creating that beautiful app. You must market it as well or you will end up losing your investment.
12. Failing the dumb user test: Test an app through a dumbest person one knows and watch how they use it. An app should be ridiculously easy and intuitive in order to succeed in the market. Tons of app features are useless if users do not know how to use them. To aid with usability, add a starting instructions overlay on how to use the app. This can educate users on how to use the app. Short videos and help section are useful too.
The above critical mistakes are very important and every good programmer should be aware of it and keep these things in mind and try to deliver a good designed, easy app. Designing a beautiful app is as important as designing a useful app. Keeping all required functionalities in mind one must design a successful business app. To get maximum benefits of Android apps, you may consider hiring services of a Android development company India.
We provide Android application development services. If you would like like an Android developer for hire, please get in touch with Mindfire Solutions.
The trend of Android development is on the rise and this is the major reason why an increasing percentage of the world population is inclined towards android based devices. For those who are new to this industry and do not have in-depth knowledge of the development process, we bring here some significant tips for successful development of Android apps.
Have a Good Understanding of the Resources: When it comes to any Android based device, do not go for app development until and unless you have complete knowledge of the resources. It might require you to indulge in continuous learning, but it’s worth going for it. It’s imperative to gain considerable comprehension of the Android SDK platform as well as other tools in order to come up with effective Android development.
Properly Define the Target Market: If you are planning to offer customized Android development services, try to be well-versed with the choices of the target audience. Indulge in good amount of research to know what your chosen niche likes or dislikes. Once you are able to think from the perspective of the user, you will be capable of implementing the features of their choice and this will ensure that an increased number of your target customers are downloading your app.
Reach a Balance between Innovation and Creativity: In case it is not needed, do not be excessively creative. Remember that it is essential to keep things comprehensive, simple and user-friendly. This is very important because often, if you try to be overly creative, the outcome is a more complicated, unnecessarily cluttered code. The same will make room for more flaws and errors. So, it is advisable to focus on the core requirement while developing the app.
Target at Complete User Satisfaction: An android developer’s aim should not be solely to develop the app, but also to focus on the performance and quality of the application for ensuring customer delight. You need to create an advanced user-interface in order to render high grade user experience and enhanced user engagement. For any kind of app development across the Android platform, it is imperative to ensure that the application can be optimally used.
Pay Heed to What the Customer has to Say: In order to come up with a successful app creation, every single detail needs to be meticulously followed. In case even some minutest detail is not taken care of during the developmental phases, issues might crop up later. Carefully understand what the customer needs and refrain from any short-cuts. It is true that every developer will have their own preferences and preconceptions but do not let these things make you incapable of seeing what the client really wants.
Make good use of themes: With the help of themes, you will be able to control the styles so far as the entire app is concerned. While you are developing an app, it is best to strictly adhere to styling patterns in the early stages of development. This makes it easier to cope with device idiosyncrasies at a later phase when you are aiming for the best presentation on manifold resolutions and sizes of screens.
The above-mentioned information plays a crucial role in android app development. If you employ these guidelines during the developmental phase, you can accomplish noteworthy success in coming up with a high performing android app. Along with keeping these tips in mind, also update your knowledge regarding the latest activities in the Android market. The discussed tips are in fact timeless and will definitely facilitate development of apps which bring a radical change in the user-experience quotient. So, go ahead and create apps that render ultimate client satisfaction!
We provide android game development services. If you would like to know more about our certified mobile app developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.
