--- title: "Android vs iOS: Which Platform Should You Develop an App for First?" locale: "en" language: "en-HK" published: "2018-02-28T14:28:36+08:00" updated: "2026-03-17T23:03:55.683Z" canonical: "https://accordhk.com/blog/android-vs-ios-which-platform-should-you-develop-an-app-for-first-162" --- # Android vs iOS: Which Platform Should You Develop an App for First? Starting with one platform is usually the recommended approach to app development. This article compares Android and iOS audiences, revenue models, release cycles, and features to help you choose where to begin. ## 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 i[Phone 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 [users]()typically 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/     ## Frequently asked questions ### Should I develop an app for Android and iOS at the same time? The article recommends starting with one platform in most cases. Once you have refined your approach and your data shows significant success, you can consider expanding to the other platform. ### When does it make sense to develop for Android first? Choose Android first when your target audience primarily uses it, particularly in developing countries or certain urban market segments. It also suits apps that require deeper operating system customization or greater control over software and hardware. ### When should I prioritize iOS development? The article recommends iOS when it fits your target audience, when you want greater media exposure, or when you are developing a retail app. It also favors iOS when generating more app revenue is a priority. ### How do operating system adoption rates affect development? The mixpanel.com survey cited in the article reported that more than 95% of iOS users used the latest version, compared with fewer than 20% of Android users. The article explains that this allows iOS development to focus on the latest operating system version and shorten development and testing cycles.