So you’ve created your first app and decided to release it onto Android, only to release it onto iOS when it gains popularity. Now you’re left with having to manage both apps with the same look and functionality, the only difference being that they run on two different operating systems. While you may think trying to run both apps natively would be a good idea, it might be best to consider using React Native.

Below we will be discussing when will be the right time to switch to React Native in order to help you manage your cross-platform apps.

 

What is the biggest challenge of running two native apps?

 

One of the biggest challenges about running both apps natively is that your work base is doubled. Having two different apps on two different platforms means you have to maintain two different codebases. This also means having to work out and fix twice the amount of bugs, each found on their own respective platform. The longer you have to try and keep both apps bug free, the more difficult it can get to maintain your applications.

On top of all this, you have to do double the work when it comes to implementing new features and updates – once on Android and the next on iOS. This can become costly if you’re not a large team, as it means you will have to hire additional engineers, one who specializes in Android and the other who works with iOS.

Additionally, this means your apps are ready at different times, as one engineer may work faster than the other. However, due to different architectures and software development kits, the difference in sync will only get more significant the longer your try to maintain it.

 

When should you consider migrating to React Native?

 · When your business starts booming

One of the main and most obvious reasons that you should migrate is because your business has picked up traction and has outgrown your original idea. If you always need to update, improve features, or simply fix bugs, then migrating to React Native should be an obvious choice, as you will benefit significantly from doing all the aforementioned things much cheaper and faster.

· Productivity Optimization

Using React Native can be a great way to keep your headcount down while still allowing your developers the same abilities to be productive by working on one codebase. This will save them a lot of time as well as cause fewer communication problems.

· Expanding onto other Operating Software

If you already have your app launched onto Android, for example, and find yourself wanting to expand to iOS without all the hassle of completely recreating the app, then switching to React Native would be a good solution for you. No matter which Operating system you initially start out on, React Native makes it easier for you to branch out in the future.