The Age-Old Question
Every mobile founder asks this.
iOS first? Android first? Both?
Here's our framework.
The Factors
1. Target Market
US/UK: iOS first. Higher ARPU.
Global/Developing: Android first. Market share.
2. Revenue Model
Paid apps: iOS users pay more.
Freemium: Both platforms.
3. Technical Complexity
Some features iOS-only. Some Android-only.
iOS First
When to Choose
- US/UK target market
- B2B SaaS app
- Premium positioning
- Higher budget
Pros
- Higher ARPU
- Faster development
- Better dev tools
- More loyal users
Cons
- Smaller market share globally
- App Store review can delay
Android First
When to Choose
- Global market
- Developing countries
- Lower budget
- Open source integration
Pros
- Larger global market share
- Faster deployment
- More device diversity
Cons
- Lower ARPU
- Fragmentation challenges
- More testing required
Both Simultaneously
When to Choose
- Budget allows it
- Both markets matter
- React Native (cost-effective)
Pros
- Maximum reach
- Test both markets
Cons
- Double the testing
- Platform-specific bugs
Our Recommendation
MVP: iOS First
Focus on one market. One platform. Prove it works.
Then expand.
React Native: Both
With React Native, both platforms share most code.
Cost difference is smaller.
The Decision Framework
| Factor | iOS | Android |
|---|---|---|
| US market | ✅ | |
| Global market | ✅ | |
| High budget | ✅ | ✅ |
| Low budget | iOS first | |
| React Native | ✅ | ✅ |
| B2B | ✅ |
The Honest Answer
Don't overthink this.
Pick one. Ship it. Learn.
Then expand based on data.
