In brief
Start with one platform, choosing Android or iOS according to your audience, revenue goals, and customization needs. Refine your app on that platform, then consider expanding to the other once your data shows success.
When developing an app, you naturally want it to run on every device. But is that the right approach? In most cases, the right approach is to first build on one platform an app, rather than build it for multiple platforms.
So which should you choose? Android app development or iPhone app development
Android App Development vs iPhone App Development
Demographics
At present, Android has the largest platform share worldwide, particularly in lower-income regions and developing countries. By comparison, iOS userstypically have higher incomes, are more engaged, and spend more on each app. The data indicates that Android has more users than iOS.
Revenue Models
The revenue models behind these two platforms reflect the approaches of Apple and Google. Although Android apps generate more advertising revenue, apps on iOS still carry price tags. According to a 2017 survey, iOS apps generate more revenue than Android apps, making iOS more valuable to users.
Release Cycles
One aspect worth comparing between the two platforms is their release cycles. Although Android is open source, it remains subject to restrictions imposed by various OEMs and carriers. For this reason, iOS leads Android in release cycles and adoption rates. According to data collected in the latest mixpanel.com survey, more than 95% of iOS users use the latest version, while fewer than 20% of Android users do so. This means iOS development can focus on the latest operating system version, shortening development and testing cycles.
Features
Because Android is an open-source operating system, Android variants such as Cyanogen Mod give developers deeper access to the operating system. For example, a few years ago, home screen replacements included Aviate and Facebook. There are even apps built using custom ROMs. These and other reasons explain why some apps may be suitable only for Android.
When Should You Develop for Android First?
When your target audience primarily uses Android, particularly in developing countries and certain market segments within cities, it makes sense to start with Android app development. This is also useful when you want to customize an aspect of the Android operating system that is inaccessible on iOS. This may apply when you need to choose the hardware your app will run on or want complete control over all software and hardware elements. However, remember that Android does not offer faster iteration, while Apple's approval times are comparatively short.
When Should You Develop for iOS First?
Depending on the characteristics of your target audience, you may choose to start with iPhone app development. Today, most developers prefer to develop apps for iOS first and then move on to Android. This is a viable option for those proficient in developing apps for the platform. If you want more media coverage and exposure, iOS is the best choice. Therefore, if you are building a retail app or want to earn more revenue from your app, iOS app development is the best approach.
The Best Approach
App development for Apple and Android each has its own advantages and limitations. Although Android makes it easier to reach a larger audience, Apple's audience is more loyal and more attractive. The best approach is to start with either platform and then move on to the other. Once you have refined your approach on one platform, you can consider expanding to the next. If your data shows that your app has achieved significant success on one platform, targeting the audience on the other will immediately expand your audience and increase your app's credibility.
http://blog.aistechnolabs.com/android-vs-ios-which-app-to-develop-first-2/