The surge in the demand for smartphones has paved the way for mobile applications. Be it a B2B organization or D2C business, users are now expecting a seamless and innovative application for every platform. Earlier, the world of the mobile application industry revolved around Java or Kotlin, but now it is a blend of Javascript, HTML and CSS. Javascript is emerging as one of the most popular choices for creating mobile apps due to its various benefits to organizations and users. In this blog, we'll explore Android App Development With Javascript.

Benefits of using Javascript for Mobile Application Development 

Listed below are various reasons developers opt for Javascript while creating a mobile app from scratch:

• Versatile: The framework of Javascript is compatible with HTML, CSS, and other applications, making it easier for developers to create apps. Secondly, this script can be run on different platforms besides Android using a similar coding language. Meanwhile, the language is easily accessible and can be shared between web and mobile apps.
• Ease of Learning: Javascript boasts a developer-friendly platform, helping professionals put their web development skills to use for mobile app development. Compared to other complex coding languages, Javascript enables developers to create seamless, user-friendly applications with minimal effort.
• Massive Community Support: Professionals are surrounded by a plethora of resources, libraries, tutorials, and support from the vast Javascript developer community. Users can access JavaScript code libraries for similar apps that already have pre-written or similar coding.

Essential JavaScript Frameworks for Android App Development

To create efficient and creative mobile-friendly apps at a cheaper cost with less effort, several Javascript frameworks are commonly used by a large number of professionals. Popular Javascript Framework for Android App Development is as follows:

• ReactNative: ReactNative, the most popular open-source Javascript framework, is developed by Facebook. It is used to create native mobile applications for iOS and Android using a similar coding base. Amongst its key features, component-based architecture, vast community support, user-friendly interface and one-way data flow feature ranks the best.
• Apache Cordova: Apache Cordova (PhoneGap) is an open-source and flexible framework with cross-platform functional capabilities. Developers can create mobile application using a blend of Javascript, HTML, CSS. Apache Cordova is better than ReactNative for prioritizing speed and overall performance.
• Ionic: Ionic by Drifty.co is most popular for creating hybrid mobile applications with a particular focus on UI and UX tooling. Ionic offers built-in elements, pre-designed templates, typography, interactive components, patterns, and a base theme. Its custom and personalized features allow businesses to have a competitive edge. Likewise, the Apache Cordova framework has cross-platform capabilities, allowing the deployment of a mobile app across various platforms such as Android, iOS, web, etc.

Tools and Technologies Needed for Android App Development 

To build an effective and efficient mobile app, the following tools and technologies are required by a developer:

• Node.js: Node.js along with Node Package Manager helps to run the server-side applications outside of a browser and manage project’s dependencies.
• Code Editor: In order to manage, edit and keep track of all your codes, a code editor is a must. Visual Studio Code, Atom or Sublime Text are the most popular code editors.
• Android Studio: To test the debugging and successful deployment of your app on Android devices, an Android Studio is required. 

Depending on your requirements and preferences, you may also consider additional tools and technologies, such as CLI tools, for enhanced functionalities.

How to Create Mobile apps with Javascript: A step-by-step guide?

The steps to create an Android App with JavaScript are:

1. Setting Up Your Development Environment

The first step in creating a mobile app is to configure the settings of your development environment. You can start by installing the necessary software, tools and technologies required to build an app. Node.js, Node Package Manager, and latest versions of Java JDK is required for the initial setup. Next you can set up code editors, Android studio and latest Android SDKs for app development.

2. Choosing the Right Framework

The selection of the right Javascript framework depends on your projects’ requirements, preferences and capabilities. Factors such as speed, performance, learning curve and team expertise help in choosing the right framework. Each Javascript framework has its own advantages and disadvantages. For personalized and hybrid apps, Ionic may be better; however, for enhanced speed and performance, React Native is superior. 

3. Writing Your First App

Before writing the codes, define the basic structure and sitemap of your app. Outline components such as screen, navigational framework and other essential elements. To facilitate the development process, you may create projects using your framework's CLI.

4. Testing and Debugging

Before making your mobile application live in the market, it is imperative to test your app for errors and bugs. Make sure to conduct regular audits and test your app on an Android emulator or a virtual device. Identify the errors to troubleshoot and optimize your code. Test your app performance on different Android versions and devices. You can also leverage various debugging tools provided by your framework and Android Studio.

5. Deployment of Android Application

Once the initial testing and debugging are done, prepare for the launch of your app for deployment. Create the APK file using your framework’s build commands. Finally, upload your APK to the Google Play Console. 

Popular Android Apps Built using Javascript Framework: Real-World Examples and Case Studies

Various successful Android apps run efficiently using Javascript frameworks. 

• Instagram: This popular social media application is built using ReactNative framework. Therefore, it is rich with features such as video recording and photo filters. Meanwhile, the app is accessible across iOS, Android, and the desktop.
• Bloomberg: Bloomberg's mobile version is based on Apache Cordova. The information company apps boast a consistent brand element and content delivery due to the Javascript framework. 
• PayPal: Paypal, a major fintech company, uses Node.js for scalability and enhanced Performance. 

Common Challenges While Developing with Javascript

While Android app development is the easiest, it is not without challenges and complexities. Firstly, enhanced speed and performance are issues compared to other options such as Java. Apps built with JavaScript showcase less speed and redundant performance. Secondly, Javascript does not allow for seamless native feature integrations, which can hamper customer satisfaction. Other common challenges encountered while Javascript mobile app development relate to debugging issues and complex app submission guidelines. 

Hiring Expert JavaScript Developers for Your Project

To overcome the above-mentioned challenges, organisations can hire a skilled and expert Javascript developer for easy app development. Before hiring, keep these pointers in mind:

• Assess their technical knowledge, skills, and expertise in Javascript and other languages.
• To hire JavaScript developers, consider an experienced developer who can efficiently navigate through challenges and complex tasks.
• Consider global talent, even remote employees, to broaden your applicant pool and hire a qualified candidate.
• Check their reputation, references and past experience in the industry.
• For Android App Development with Javascript, assess applicants’ soft skills, such as problem-solving, decision-making, etc, for a smooth transition. 

FAQs 

1. Can I build an Android app with JavaScript?

Yes, you can build Android Apps with JS. Consider using various frameworks such as Iona, ReactNative, Apache Cordova, etc for enhanced application.

2. Can I write JavaScript on Android?

Yes, you can efficiently write, edit and keep track of various codes using code editor tools for Javascript on Android.

3. Is Android app development Java or JavaScript?

Java was a coding language used for Android app development. However, Javascript is rapidly gaining popularity and replacing Java for ad development.

4. Is JavaScript enough to make an app?

Yes, Javascript is enough to make and deploy mobile apps across Android, the web, and other platforms. 

5. Which apps are made by JavaScript?

Popular apps such as Instagram, Walmart, eBay, Bloomberg and others are built using Javascript.