What iOS 10 Means for App Developers

It’s official: iOS 10 has already been adopted by over 60% of iOS users, and is now a required download for both iPhones and iPads. That means if you already have or are thinking about developing a mobile app optimized for Apple devices, it’s time to adjust. But just what is new in iOS 10, and how does that impact your iOS app development? That’s what this post will explore in detail.

Understanding iOS 10

As has been the case for the past few years, the release of the new iPhone generation brought with it a new mobile operating system as well. iOS 10, of course, is not just available for the iPhone 7, but has also become available (with regular reminders to update) for older devices reaching back to the iPhone 5.

That means the changes impact most mobile users with Apple devices, so it’s instructional to know just what is new in the OS itself. Fortunately, Apple has provided a great overview:

• New Widgets. Android users and developers will already be familiar with widgets; now, Apple is beginning to offer a similar feature. Push notifications are larger and include more detail, while users can add updates on weather, news, the stock market, and other items to their screens.
• iMessage integration. Messaging continues to be the dominant form of communication among mobile users. iOS 10 allows users to integrate apps with the internal messaging system, allowing them to share app-specific items with their friends and family.
• Siri integration. Similar to the messenger integration described above, users can now use Apple’s personal assistant, Siri, to navigate their individual apps as well.

Among these major updates, a number of smaller changes exist in iOS 10 as well. For example, users with devices that enable 3D touch technology can respond to push notifications in a variety of ways, rather than having to enter an app first.

Relevant Changes for iOS App Developers

As you might imagine, much of the above has a direct impact on the way you can and should build your app. Including widget capability, for example, allows you to enhance the visibility and usability of your software. Similarly, integrating iMessage and/or Siri allows for more user-friendly navigation and communication in and around your brand.

Of course, you don’t have to make updates that reflect the new functionality. Your app developed for iOS 9 should still be able to function on the new version of the operating system (although it is common for the release of a new OS to create a few bugs in older apps). But given the new functionality, adding new capabilities can help you better reach your users and enhance your app’s (and business) success.

Adjusting Your App for Lasting Success

iOS 10 is only the latest example of the fast-changing mobile environment. Apple and Android have been embroiled in a constant competition for audience attention, and that battle has impacted app developers as well. As the two mobile giants fight for supremacy in the space, they have continued to release operating system updates more quickly, and with a close eye on each other.

For your mobile app, that means staying up-to-date on the newest updates. Of course, it also means being strategic; the first iOS 10 update, for example, was riddled with bugs, and only a fix made it usable for all devices. You have to be nimble and ready to develop an update quickly if you want to stay on the cutting edge with every new OS update.

To get the timing just right, while still being able to take advantage of the new features that an update like iOS 10 offers, you need to work with a partner who knows the industry and can help you adjust your app for the greatest possible success. To get in touch with app developers who can help your Apple app stay up to date, and to accommodate your users for lasting success, contact us!