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.
With the increasing popularity of Android-operated smartphones and tablets, it has become imperative to have cloud storage facilities. The internal storage capacity of mobile devices is quite limited due to their sizes; accordingly the importance of cloud storage services is being felt by most people. To cater to this demand several cloud storage services have come into existence which provide free storage to the customers. These services help store all kinds of files, photos, movies, music as well as videos for free and these can be accessed anywhere anytime on the go. The service providers ensure that the data is perfectly safe; the chances of stolen or crashed hard disk are literally zero. Here are some apps that have become the top picks for many Android users around the world.Google Drive- Google Drive is a top choice for Android-users for its easy familiarity as well as ease of use. The service is integrated with Google+ accounts along with other services. The services are merged such that 15GB storage is included across Google Docs, Gmail, Google+, Google photos as well as Google Drive. It can support virtually all kinds of files that include Microsoft Office docs and PDFs. Dropbox- This is the most popular choice for most people since it is the first app for Cloud storing. Anything and everything may be uploaded as well as accessed by the users without any issues. Not only can you use free cloud storage of 2GB but if you can refer it to friends then 16GB additional free storage can be earned as well. If you want more, then even the charges are quite nominal. Box- The popularity of Dropbox is limited to individuals; Box’s popularity rests among enterprise and business users. Personal users may get 5GB free storage to store all kinds of files. Beyond that a fee of $10 per year must be paid which enables you to have storage space of 25GB. The functionality as well as navigation is really easy to adopt. The uploading, downloading, sharing, editing and commenting on the files is quite simple. In case of changes in shared documents you get a notification through its widget. Cubby- Through this app, users get a space for storing of important documents, movies and pictures. The cubby folders may be made as well as managed so that they stay in sync with all the devices that you use. The online storing space is of 5GB. A backup Cubby version can be kept on your desktop with the original data still remaining where it really belongs. SugarSync- Space-wise it is not too different from the other apps with 5GB being offered for free. But what makes it stand apart is that it is extremely fast as well as simple. Also there are more methods for payment and you can invite friends so that they can use your files. It also has connections with social networks. The clarity as well as simplicity makes it easy to locate files. Ubuntu One- 5GB of storage granted originally by the app can be easily increased to 20GB by referrals. It is used for storing of photos over years. This very reliable app can be used by just creating an account from the web version or the application itself. The setting may be made such that photos in other apps like Instagram can be added to its library. An additional feature is its online music player which helps download music to listen on cloud service or on your device. These are some of the most popular Android cloud apps for data storing. Besides these, there are many other useful ones such as SkyDrive, Crucial, IDrive, etc. Most of the ones mentioned here are multifunctional and can be used to store almost anything to be accessed anywhere. If you are planning to hire service of Android application development company, you must evaluate them to see if they are sufficiently agile or not! We provide Android application development services. If you would like to talk to one of our expert Android developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.
According to Emarketer.com, “The global smartphone audience surpassed the 1 billion mark in 2012 and will total 1.75 billion in 2014. eMarketer expects smartphone adoption to continue on a fast-paced trajectory through 2017. Nearly two-fifths of all mobile phone users—close to one-quarter of the worldwide population—will use a smartphone at least monthly in 2014.” The rapidly growing smartphone adoption has resulted in the surge in mobile application development.According to a number of recent reports, Android has already captured 78% share of global smartphone market. So no wonder, both enterprises and developers want to build mobile apps by targeting the mobile platform with largest market share to get higher returns. However, there are also a number of factors that contribute towards the surge in Android application development, in addition to the market share of the Google’s mobile operating system. Factors Contributing Towards the Surge in Android App Development Wide Distribution Channels: Unlike Apple, Google does not exercise tight control over mobile app distribution. So process of getting mobile apps becomes more open and versatile. An enterprise also has option to distribute Android apps by creating subsidiary distribution channels. Further, the business can decide the most appropriate way to publish its Android applications. Open Source Nature: Unlike iOS and Windows Phone, Android is open source and free. Thus, the low entry barriers encourage many companies to invest in Android app development. The open source nature of the mobile platform further reduces the cost of development tools and licensing. A small enterprise or freelance mobile app developer can launch Android apps without investing a substantial amount of money. The affordable nature of development requires businesses to incur only development and marketing expenses. Easy Development: To create Android mobile apps, the developer needs to be familiar with Java. As Java is accessible to developers across the world, it becomes easier for companies to hire experienced developers. Also, the comprehensive Android platform documentation makes it easier for Java programmers to develop mobile applications. So the developers can invest their existing skills to shorten the development time and make the process versatile. Strong Inter-Platform Integration: The Android app developers also have option to access a strong inter-platform integration framework. The framework makes it easier for them to promote the apps across multiple platforms. They can even refer to the Android SDK to understand how to use the robust development architecture to develop and promote apps across multiple platforms. Also, the feature makes it easier for programmers to create apps that deliver tightly-knit user experience. Reduced Development Cost: To beat competition, it has becomes essential for each business to keep mobile app development cost under control. Many enterprises even opt for open source platforms like Android to avoid paying hefty licensing fees. The open source nature of Android further makes it hugely popular among handset manufacturers and wireless service providers. So the developers have option to avail these features and services to make the app deliver richer user experience. Open Source Development: Many businesses even prefer developing mobile apps using open source technologies to reduce development costs. The developers have option to use a variety of open source tools and frameworks to create applications by targeting Android. In addition to curtailing the app development cost, these open source tools further make it easier for developers to bring down the development time drastically. Higher ROI: Many companies prefer developing Android apps to get higher returns. As the mobile platform is open source, they are not required to pay heft licensing fees and royalty. Also, a company can create feature-rich and interactive apps by hiring an experienced Java programmer. The reduced cost of development results in higher ROI. Likewise, the app can also be marketed by targeting the huge base of Android users to earn huge profit without investing a huge sum of money. A constant increase is also noted in the number of open source developers launching Android apps. The trend will indicates the use of open source technologies to curtail Android mobile applicator development cost. The reduced development cost will further encourage many businesses invest in Android app development projects. If you are planning to hire service of Android development company India, you must evaluate them to see if they are sufficiently agile or not! We provide Android apps development services. If you would like to talk to one of our certified Android application developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.
Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives. In fact, it is hard to imagine our lives without a healthy dose of smartphone applications. There are many people who do not have iPhones but the number of Android app users is certainly high. So the attention of most businesses has been on the development of Android apps instead of iPhone apps. Besides, the development of such apps is easy as well as cost-effective. But to take full advantage of this, it must be ensured that the perfect developer has been hired. There are many essential features and elements to be considered while doing this. Here are some must-have factors that you must give some attention to while hiring an Android developer.Good knowledge- Android has released several versions and each of the versions has a different set of capabilities as well as APIs. The developer hired must have a thorough knowledge of them so that he or she can handle each of them. Here, even you have a major role to play as you have to decide which platform should be targeted. Experience- After knowledge come the experience factor. For every field, experience counts a great deal. If the developer has developed a few applications then he or she would have a clear idea about the requirements and what will ensure a successful app. It is best to go for experienced people instead of novices; after all it will be the ultimate app for your business so it makes no sense for you to pay and then experiment with your brand image or business. Portfolio- Portfolio is the best way to verify their credentials as well as check out their work- whether they are apt enough or will be able to fulfil your requirements or not. Genuine candidates will provide a list of developed apps. You will also be to gauge the quality of their work through this. Client list- After checking out their work, the next step would be to check out their client list and have a chat with them. This way you will be able to get a sneak peek in to their claims, the actual work done as well as their behaviour. The ex-clients will be able to inform whether the projects delivered were up to their standard or not as well as whether the project had been delivered within the deadlines or had been crossed. Charges- After analyzing the standard as well as quality of work from all angles, it is time to come to the financial factor. Generally with application development, there can be no fixed charges. Each app requires varied costs. The key here is to maintain a balance. In fact, most times since nothing can be fixed in such development work, the cost should preferably be on an hourly basis instead of fixed. Mostly, while starting the work 50% of estimated cost must be paid in advance. Some may request full payment in advance, but in those cases be very careful. Additionally, the project must be reviewed and approved before the final payment is made. Communication- Whatever language you may be speaking, you must ensure that the communication between you and your to-be hired developer is excellent. The chosen language must be spoken well on both sides. If in the initial stages the communication is not perfect then later on the same thing will definitely be continued. Other services- It always helps if your hired Android developer can provide you with extra services such as publishing, distribution, creation of promotional materials, etc. If you can select the apt Android developer then your business may be on the verge of a profitable relationship which will benefit you in the long run. It may be a challenging proposition, but make sure that the above mentioned factors are kept in mind while hiring. These will enable you to make a decision that will be prove to be highly beneficiala. To get maximum benefits of android apps, you may consider hiring services of a custom android development company. We provide Android mobile application development services. If you would like to hire Android application developers from us, we would be glad to assist you at Mindfire Solutions.
Android smartphones have managed to dazzle mobile users all across the world. The popularity of these phones has surged which has resulted in increasing demand among customers. The development of Android apps is really easy; just the Android software development kit has to be used which is easily downloadable from the developer website. This operating system has copious possibilities and developers can make use of it to develop applications which can be sold in mobile app stores. In fact, Android app development is preferred by most developers due to many factors. Some of the factors have been discussed here. Great graphic support- The platform has great built-in support for 3D as well as 2D graphics which help business organizations attract the most number of users to the mobile applications by leaving a great impression on their minds. On top of that developers can expand applications with many features easily. Low barrier entry- Android needs very low investment since its entry is low barrier. Unlike other platforms, the SDK or Software Development Kit is provided to the developers for free; this helps minimize the development as well as licensing costs. In fact, development costs come in three instalments- application development, buying testing devices as well as deploying the app or royalty fees in short. This ensures that the ROI is high. Varied distribution mechanisms- Compared to other platforms, distribution of Android applications can be done in many varied ways. Any third-party app store such as Android Market of Google can be used but a separate distribution channel can be created as well. After building it, it can be published anywhere anyhow. The third party stores may impose their rules but you can easily reach end-users by the variety of options available from several stores. Easy adoption for even new companies- Building these applications is very easy even if the developer is unfamiliar with it; all he needs is a working knowledge of Java and he can easily build a great app. This is because they are based on Java and has a huge set of libraries. The current market boasts of a number of efficient Java programmers; on top of that they are aided by the excellent documentation of Android platform. Great syndication- Development of Android applications can be done through many techniques. Android syndication program allows the spreading of varied applications to different retailers. Several solutions allow the building of advanced versions of the apps. Open source- The platform is open source which prohibits the need for spending a large amount of money to get license for working on it. The license is free and the platform can be used without any restrictions. Medium as well as small sized companies especially find this platform to be a blessing in disguise which helps them boost the business on a global basis. The platform can be easily customized according to individual requirements so that the final app suites the business needs. Inter-application integration- This platform is perfect for inter-process as well as inter-application architectures. You can perfectly integrate a number of applications and cross promote them effortlessly. When compared to other platforms which just offer background processes Android allows the development of trust relationships between the applications so that users get a better knit experience. Easy marketing- A huge number of fans allows easier marketing since there is no need for creation of niche messages for catering to particular sects of people. The app maybe marketed through various kinds of media as well as generalized messages that can reach the masses. According to recently published data, 700 million activations in this platform have been created in 2013 and according to predictions by 2014’s end the figure will cross the 1 billion mark. This only shows the extreme popularity of its apps; so it is best to take full advantage of the opportunities that Android offers to its developers. To get maximum benefits of android apps, you may consider hiring services of a custom android development company. We provide Android app development services. If you would like to hire Android application developers from us, we would be glad to assist you at Mindfire Solutions.
