Kotlin is a statically typed, open-source programming language that supports both functional and object-oriented programming. The language is widely used since it is well versed with Android. Its expressive and concise features are compatible with Java. Hence, developers who prefer Java can perform experiments with Kotlin, use it in existing codebases, and even make use of its libraries. That is the primary reason why many developers agree that Kotlin makes application development more fun.
Google has announced Kotlin as the official language of Kotlin. This is excellent news to enterprises who are looking to conduct cross-platform development between iOS and Android platforms. Kotlin shares various features and similarities with Apple’s Swift language. Therefore, maintaining custom iOS app development for enterprises has now become more accessible than ever.
Now, the question here is, Are you tired of writing two versions of the same code for both iOS and Android?
If yes, then right here is the solution.
Kotlin- The Major Cross-Platform Solution
Many cross-platform solutions ask you to write all the codes in the official language, such as Xamarin. Apart from this, they also require a good boilerplate to interact with the platform code, such as React Native.
Kotlin Native here emphasizes on an uncomplicated solution where you can easily share codes with both iOS and Android OS. So If you want your iOS app to reach Android users without performing the repetitive code lines, Kotlin is your new friend.
Using Gradle For Development
Gradle is a build automation open-source tool. The best part is, you can write in any language of your preference, be it C++, Python, or JAVA, and Gradle can work with all. This unmatched versatility of the tool makes it unique and powerful. But this does not mean that Gradle becomes difficult to access. Below are some major features that make Gradle easy-to-use:
- Super customizable
- Quick and completes tasks promptly
- It is an official Android build tool.
- Multiple language support
- Compatible with all modern technologies
Along with these features, Gradle also supports several IDEs (Integrated Development Environments) like Android Studio, XCode, Visual Studio 2017, IntelliJ idea, etc.
The Similarities Between Kotlin and Swift :
Kotlin is also known as “the Swift of Android” in the web development industry.
The syntax of Swift and Kotlin does not resemble each other. However, approximately 77% of the string similarity is visible in small chunks of code. Both the languages are equally concise and transparent to their platforms. Swift and kotlin’s syntax systems are more than efficient and are highly preferred by the developers for their distinction.
Both languages are considered to be reliable and secure for big and large-scale projects. If we talk about typing, Swift and kotlin are known to be strong and static and help to create dynamic codes.
Following are some of the significant features that make Swift and Kotlin almost similar and compatible.:
- Easy to read
- Less verbose
- Interoperable with Java and Objective C
- Identical patterns
However, this does not imply that applications on both platforms (Android and iOS) can share a standard code. Since the languages and the OS-specific libraries are distinguishable, they require different code lines.
But due to the similar patterns, the approach to the app’s functionality can be the same for both. This makes testing, development, and maintenance easier for you.
Choose an appropriate IDE:
An IDE is a workbench used to assist in the development process. It creates an integrated environment where all the necessary tools are accessible.
The original IDE developed by Apple is XCode. However, several other alternatives are also used in iOS app development in the UK. We will suggest you try XCode first before you shift to other options.
Few other IDEs that you consider are Code Runner, Swifty, and AppCode.
Start an Uncomplicated Application Lifecycle :
With the help of Kotlin, you can design a UI that can be a hybrid of both Android and iOS. Kotlin has many compelling advantages that allow it to simplify multi-platform development.
The cherry on the cake is Java, and kotlin files can exist together in Android applications. If you are planning to perform custom iOS app development, Kotlin can make your iOS apps reach Android platforms quickly. So what are we waiting for? Let’s make your iPhone application reach Android users efficiently this time.
