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What is iOS?

The operating system created by Apple and praised for revolutionising what we know about mobile phones, iOS (iPhone operating system) was first released in 2007. This, of course, came around the same time the first iPhone was unveiled to the world, which promised to change everything.

I’m new here…tell me about iOS for beginners

OS is the operating system designed to run apps on Apple’s line of products, including the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. (We should mention that later on in 2019, the iPad got its own OS: iPadOS.) This system allows for seamless connectivity between multiple Apple products while powering the creation of apps that are distributed via the AppStore.

It uses a multi-touch interface that means users only have to swipe, pinch or tap their fingers to interact with the UI of their device.

Developers can create applications for the platform using the iPhone software development kit (SDK). They generally use Swift or Objective C to write iPhone apps.

Right now, iOS is the second most used mobile operating system, coming in behind Android. However, the iPhone itself is the single most sold product that ever landed on the market, ringing in at more than 217 million sales in 2018.

What are the benefits of iOS?

Apple is yet to open up its iOS to other mobile phone companies, which is no real surprise. If it did, the brand would be giving up its package of hardware (iPhone) and software (iOS). Each one complements the other and even though iOS adoption is limited to the Apple fan club, there are a number of great benefits that come with iOS:

  • It can be integrated with a number of useful tools, such as Dropbox, React Native and Google Sheets.
  • The iOS platform has a clean, simple interface that’s easy-to-use.
  • Because of the consistency throughout Apple devices, developers tend to find it easier to create apps that perform well.
  • iPhone apps have a better ROI compared to Android apps.
  • Apple takes serious measures to protect an organisation’s sensitive data, providing extra security against hacking and malware.
  • iPhone apps already have a strong, tech-savvy and open-minded audience, and businesses can afford to create applications that disrupt markets.

The features of iOS we need to know about

There are around 1.8 million apps available on the AppStore right now. The market loves iPhone apps and developers continue to push boundaries on the iPhone OS.

The latest version is iOS 15 (which we’ll touch on in the next section). The iOS 15 SDK incorporates the features that those developing Apple products need most.

  • Powerful customisation for AR experiences, with ARKit and RealityKit
  • On-device training
  • SharePlay for easier app sharing
  • Control over notifications based on user focus status
  • Drag and drop function
  • New keyboard layout guides
  • Accessibility framework that includes audio graphs

iOS 15: The latest version to hit our screens

Every year, Apple rolls out a couple of major iOS updates. The intention behind these releases is to add cool new features to the operating system, but the brand also takes care of bug fixes and security patches throughout the year.

The latest version is iOS 15. According to Apple:

iOS is packed with new features that help you connect with others, be more present and in the moment, explore the world, and use powerful intelligence to do more with iPhone than ever before.

The key themes that ran through this update announcement were staying in touch, staying in the moment, and finding new ways to explore the world.

What’s the difference between iOS & Android

iOS and Android share some similarities, though there are key differences that set them apart, too. These distinctions can usually be blamed for why developers prefer one over the other. Let’s cover some of them here.

  • iOS uses a closed system.
  • Since iOS apps can only be deployed on Apple products, there is a guarantee of high quality.
  • iOS devices enjoy the consistent running time.
  • Android is more open, giving users more customisation options.
  • Android, on the other hand, can make its way onto cheaper phones.
  • Android products are more likely to worsen over time.
  • Android devices are more vulnerable to security threats, as updates are less regular.

Can anyone learn iOS app development?

Apple provides the tools and resources developers need to create apps that will run on Apple products. An iOS developer can write using native languages such as Swift or Objective C or can build cross-platform native applications using React Native or Xamarin.

So, to become an iOS app developer, you’ll need to already have a grasp of these languages. You’ll also need the latest version of Xcode, Apple’s IDE (integrated development environment) for Mac and iOS apps.

The iOS SDK contains the tools, frameworks and languages needed to create an app. Get familiar with this to begin building, running and testing apps.

Our Yolkers have this covered

Want to take a bite of the world’s most advanced mobile operating system? The barrier to entry is pretty high when it comes to using iOS to build apps, but luckily, our Yolkers are Apple geniuses. We can help you create products for the most sold tech product on the planet by becoming an offshore extension of your team.