HTML5 versus Native Apps: Which Platform To Choose For Your Next Mobile App

Selecting a development platform is a big decision with significant implications on both short term and long term viability of a product. Probably the most interesting, current, development platform discussion is the HTML5 versus native mobile apps debate.

A high level comparison of the two options is outlined below:

	Native Applications	HTML5
Functionality	Ability to leverage all device capabilities	Many limitations in access to hardware functionality. Frameworks, such as PhoneGap, can be used to access device capabilities not supported by HTML5.
Performance	Superior performance	Good enough for many applications
Development effort	Separate coding effort for each mobile platform	Build once, deploy (almost) anywhere
Learning curve	Need to master each mobile platform separately	Relatively short learning curve for web developers
Distribution mechanism	App stores	Search Can be packaged for app stores
Upgrades	Required on each device	Not required. Users always have access to the latest functionality.
Maturity	Significantly more mature	Gaining traction

From my perspective, what it boils down to is this:

1. If functional and performance requirements of your app can be supported by HTML5, go with HTML5. Smaller development effort and a shorter learning curve will result in lower overall costs and a faster time to market.
2. If you are relying heavily on the hardware features, require performance beyond what HTML5 can offer, or are building a complex application where maturity of technology is a significant factor, go native.
3. It is likely that the boundary between the two options will gradually shift in favor of HTML5.

Other posts on this topic

• HTML5 vs Native Apps: A Winning Mobile App Strategy
• Will HTML5 replace native apps? It might: here’s how to figure out when
• HTML5 versus Native Apps: The truth you need to know
• HTML5 vs Native: The Mobile App Debate

Historical Footnote

Five years ago I wrote the What technology platform to choose for development of mobile applications? post. It talks about J2ME, BREW, Symbian. Android and iOS are not mentioned – they had not been released yet at that time. Any guesses on what will be a preferred mobile development platform five years from now?

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software development

Android, HTML5, iOS, mobile, product development, software development

January 5, 2012

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