Interestingly enough, when considering software to develop apps, Python is not at the top of the list. Programming languages like JavaScript, React Native, and Kotlin are much more popular. Nonetheless, can Python be used to create apps? Absolutely!
Python is known for its flexibility and adaptability to various projects. It’s universal, but that doesn’t make it ideal for every task. In order to incorporate the processes needed to create apps, Python utilizes a framework called Kivy.
What is Kivy?
Released in 2011, Kivy is open-sourced and free—a developer’s most searched for criteria. Development across multiple platforms becomes possible through this framework, made specifically for use with Python. This cross-platform development allows Python to make apps for mobile and PC.
- BeeWare
BeeWare is another framework that holds a motto similar to Java’s ‘Write once, run anywhere’—“Write once, deploy everywhere.” It promotes a system that is simple enough for developers of varying skill levels to learn, which in turn makes creating apps with Python easier. Additionally, it claims BeeWare creates apps that include native user interfaces.
- Python-for-Android
This, as its name suggests, makes it possible for Python to be integrated with Android on an easier level. Python-for-Android serves to compile a folder of needed tools that lets users open apps.
- PyJNIus
An Application Programming Interface (API), this framework requires a deep understanding of Android API. It gathers information regarding different elements such as restart, vibration, and pause.
Disadvantages of Using Python for App Development
- It doesn’t contain a compiler. Instead, it has an interpreter, meaning issues may not be obvious until the processes are executed.
- All bases must be covered when using Python for app development. Every possibility for the expressions must be included.
Time is a Necessity
When creating an app, time is one of the most important elements, even if a development team is working on it. Developing an app alone may take up to several months for each step. Hiring a team of developers, however, will likely significantly decrease that time but could come with a big price tag. Regardless of which path is taken, time should be set aside for the steps in the project as well as for the whole project.
Hiring a Development Team
By choosing to hire a team of developers, the cost of the project will have to be calculated. This will ultimately depend on how complex the app will be and where the team is. Complex apps are more expensive and take longer to develop while simpler ones are cheaper and less time-consuming. Standard of living and currency conversions may also play a significant role in the overall cost.
Summary
Though it isn’t initially viewed as a top app developer, with the right tools, a flexible programming language like Python can be used to create excellent apps. Major corporations like Pinterest, Spotify, and Instagram utilize Python within their systems. Still, for non-developers wanting to use this language to make their own apps, a solid understanding of Python and the process of app development should be present before any action is taken.