3. Mobile App Development

What is it? The phrase (so often used that it is usually taken for granted), refers to the development of software applications meant for smaller computing devices than traditional computers (that deal with heavy computation). Users of mobile devices can get mobile apps pre-loaded on their device, or can download them from the internet. Most well-known application development environments include iOS, Android, Windows phone OS, BlackBerry, Symbian OS and the such.

How hot is it? Extremely hot. This field of software development continues to evolve as mobile devices and the OSes used to develop apps changes with them. Apps are still needed since there’s a myriad of needs that must be fulfilled. Users need apps for functionality as well as for entertainment, and mobile companies are willing to pay according to the demand for apps.

Why is it important? Users are increasingly turning to smartphones and tablets to consume and create content, be it on the go or on the couch. Apps for these are in demand, and will continue to be, from the sides of consumers as well as producers and hosts of content. App developers are essentially the middle men whose services will be needed for quite a while.

How much does it pay? $118,000 per annum in Silicon Valley, and around $78,000 per annum in other parts of the United States

One of the key essentials to be kept in mind for Mobile application development includes that of compatibility, especially if you’re aiming at cross-platform app development. But what else should you consider when you want to build an app? These queries and more will be answered at the India Software Developer Conference at Bangalore which will be held from March 24 to 25. Join the conversation and get a chance to meet up with technorati including Prasanna Ram (Enterprise Mobile Architect, Capgemini), and Saikumar Jagannathan (Principal Architect, Cognizant).

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