Mobile & Web App Glossary for Founders

Cross-Platform App Development: Reach Users on Any Platform

Written by Akash Shakya | Jul 3, 2025 12:36:56 AM

A cross-platform app is a mobile or web app built with one codebase that works on multiple platforms—like iOS and Android—ensuring consistency across devices.

Why It Matters 

  • Reduces development cost and time by avoiding platform-specific builds

  • Enables broader reach across user bases (Android, iOS, even web)

  • Easier updates and fewer bugs thanks to shared codebase

  • Ideal for MVPs and budget-conscious startups

  • Supports faster scaling and maintenance over time

Use This Term When...

  • You’re comparing native vs cross-platform options

  • Planning an MVP with limited budget or timeline

  • Discussing development frameworks like Flutter or React Native

  • Defining a tech stack that prioritises fast delivery

  • Coordinating updates across different device types

Real-World Example 

In the project, we delivered a high-performing cross-platform app using Flutter, enabling the client to maintain one codebase across Android and iOS while saving 40% on development time.

Founder Insight

Most users can’t tell the difference between native and cross-platform apps—especially with modern tools. Prioritise reach and scalability early on. If performance demands rise later, you can optimise as needed.

Key Metrics / Concepts

  • Code Reusability Rate: % of code shared across iOS/Android

  • Performance Benchmark: Speed, responsiveness vs native

  • Time to Market: Launch time saved by unified builds

  • Crash Rate by Platform: Monitors platform-specific issues

  • Maintenance Overhead: Fewer bugs to fix = less dev time

Tools & Technologies

  • Flutter – Google’s open-source cross-platform toolkit

  • React Native – JavaScript-based framework by Meta

  • Xamarin – Microsoft’s solution using C# and .NET

  • Firebase – Used for backend and analytics across platforms

  • Expo – Rapid dev environment for React Native

What’s Next / Future Trends

With frameworks now extending to web, desktop, and even smart devices, cross-platform development is becoming the default choice. Expect real-time sync, AI-assisted cross-platform UI, and native-level performance to blur the line even further.

Related Terms

  • Hybrid App – Combines native shell with web content

  • Flutter – Dart-based toolkit from Google

  • React Native – JavaScript-based solution for mobile

  • Tech Stack – Tools used to build your app

  • Mobile App Development – Includes native and cross-platform options

Helpful Videos / Articles / Pages

Call to Action

Still unsure if a cross-platform app is right for your project? Book a discovery call with our team — we’ll help you weigh the benefits based on your product goals.