Trends in iOS Development for 2024
Tags: developer, ios, trends, webdev
Published: 2024-01-08 13:14:00

Digital solutions are becoming increasingly simpler, faster, and more secure for users. These changes require developers to use specific tools and frameworks. In this article, we will explore the key trends in iOS development that are already observed worldwide and will remain relevant throughout the year.

Focus on Swift and SwiftUI Swift remains the primary language for iOS development, with Apple continually expanding its capabilities through regular releases of enhanced versions. However, the language is not undergoing as dramatic changes as before.

SwiftUI, Apple's latest framework for UI creation, utilizes a declarative approach, making development faster and the code more understandable and error-resistant. With a unified codebase for all Apple platforms, SwiftUI ensures consistency in interfaces across different devices such as iPhone, iPad, Mac, and others.

Applications are increasingly being developed using SwiftUI each year. However, it's essential to note that SwiftUI is a relatively young framework and undergoes significant changes. Apple introduces a new version each year, making it more powerful and reliable. It is recommended to use the latest and stable versions of SwiftUI supported from iOS 16.

If you haven't explored SwiftUI yet, now is the time. Resources for self-learning include:

- Apple Developer: Official documentation and code examples.
- Ray Wenderlich: Known for comprehensive tutorials and courses.
- Hacking with Swift: Free learning materials and an active developer community.
- SwiftUI Lab: In-depth tutorials on SwiftUI.

## Augmented Reality (AR) and ARKit 
Augmented Reality is no longer just a novelty but a growing trend in the Apple ecosystem. ARKit is a key framework for creating augmented reality applications for iOS, allowing the combination of virtual objects with the real environment using the device's camera, sensors, and computational capabilities. Integration of AR into regular business applications is becoming more common, making knowledge of ARKit valuable and relevant.

The latest breakthrough in AR is Vision Pro and the VisionOS operating system. Apple has introduced a new product, Vision Pro, scheduled for release in 2024. Developers should stay updated on this topic, as it represents a significant shift in the AR industry. Consider discussing with your team whether your product is ready for migration to this new platform from both a business and technical perspective.

## Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
 Machine learning (ML) has become a central component of many modern mobile applications. Apple's Core ML framework allows easy integration of powerful ML models into iOS applications. Create ML provides a convenient platform for creating custom ML models without the need for deep knowledge of machine learning. Understanding these tools opens up possibilities for creating smarter and more responsive applications.

Developers should pay attention to AI assistants, which can significantly enhance productivity. While these tools are gaining traction, they offer great prospects for future development and efficiency improvement.

Privacy and Security The volume of personal data on mobile devices is increasing, along with users' expectations regarding the privacy and security of applications. Developers need to focus on secure coding standards and various data protection strategies. Combining various approaches and methods, such as data encryption, App Transport Security (ATS), passwordless authentication, and others, is essential to make an application secure.

This trend is reinforced by regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the United States, setting data protection and user privacy standards for mobile applications. Developers must understand the implementation of these regulations based on their territorial applicability.

Cross-Platform Development Tools The emergence of cross-platform development tools has provided native developers with the opportunity to extend their capabilities and create applications for both iOS and Android from a single codebase. The growing popularity of frameworks like Flutter and React Native confirms this trend.

Proficiency in Flutter and React Native enhances a developer's competitiveness and expands the range of projects they can contribute to. However, these frameworks are not suitable for all projects, and some applications, especially those relying on native platform features or having specific UI requirements, are still better developed natively. It's crucial to strategically choose the right tool for each specific project.

Inclusivity in iOS Applications More and more product owners want to make their products accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Inclusivity in development is a broad topic, and developers can start with basic approaches such as:

- VoiceOver: Making interface elements accessible to users with visual impairments by audibly describing on-screen content.
- Dynamic Type: Allowing applications to automatically adapt text size, images, and interface elements according to user preferences, benefiting users with visual impairments.
- Accessibility Inspector: A tool in Xcode that helps developers test how interface elements and features are perceived by users with disabilities.
- Additionally, staying updated with the latest Accessibility Guidelines from Apple is essential for developers in this field.

## Environmental Approach in Development

According to a global company focused on sustainable and inclusive growth, CO2 emissions from user devices are projected to increase by an average of 12.8% per year. This is primarily due to the production, transportation, and disposal of gadgets. Additionally, both directly and indirectly, excessive energy consumption by applications contributes to these processes.

There are several aspects that should be optimized to make an application more energy-efficient: from networking optimization and reduced data usage to the more judicious use of timers, location tracking, and more. More information on developing energy-efficient iOS applications can be found in Apple's guide.

Such an approach not only contributes to a better future but also resonates with users who recognize the importance of caring for the environment. It also enhances the overall usability of the application.

The best way to follow these trends is to apply them in practice. Don't wait for a suitable project to come your way. Upgrade your skills independently and master these technologies step by step. From improving your proficiency with Swift and SwiftUI to delving into cross-platform development and applying the latest advancements in AR, ML, and AI, the opportunities for development and innovation are vast. Focusing on aspects such as security, privacy, accessibility, and sustainability will not only ensure the technological prowess of your solutions but also make them socially responsible and inclusive. This way, you'll continue to grow alongside the IT industry and remain a valuable professional.