PhoneGap

The mobile phone ecosystem is great in that it allows consumers a wider range of choices in the OS they want to use, but it can be a nightmare for developers looking to reach the widest possible audience. Converting an app natively built in iOS to Android and vice versa can be a nightmare, but PhoneGap simplifies the process by drawing on popular creation languages and handling the conversion themselves. PhoneGap relies on some of the easiest to learn and most versatile languages around, meaning even new developers can learn the basics without too much fuss. JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS can all be used in conjunction with one another, and these provide developers with most of the tools they need for even more sophisticated apps. PhoneGap can ensure that any created programs work with Android, iOS, Blackberry, and Windows. Three main components make up the PhoneGap software. The PhoneGap desktop app serves as a handy development environment for any pieces of software you want to build through PhoneGap. All compatible libraries are included in the desktop app, so you won't have to worry about the formatting problems you might deal with when using a separate command line interface. The desktop app will even serve your apps to mobile devices. By using this in conjunction with the mobile app, you can quickly see how the deployment of your software looks in action. There's no need to re-install your code or recompile it when you rely on this app. You'll be able to more quickly analyze changes to your code and respond to new challenges nimbly. The mobile app also provides you with APIs you can't find on the desktop version of the app. It's a great boon when you're trying to customize your app to match the specific functions of an existing OS like cameras, GPS, or accelerometers. If you're looking to create platform-specific tools for your app, the phone app is a great way to get it done. If you'd rather take the hassle out of compiling your own code, you can look to PhoneGap Build. This helpful service allows you to upload your code and assets directly to the cloud, where it will be compiled by the experts at Adobe. You'll receive a product that's ready to deploy at the various app stores without having to wrestle with native SDKs. You can rest easy knowing that your app will always be up to date and ready to download on the latest versions of each device. With your cloud on the app, you'll have an easier time sharing your prototype with friends, family, colleagues, and QA. PhoneGap is an open source product, and the community has created a number of tools that increase its functionality. Adobe also maintains a rich library of plugins supported by the manufacturer.