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Top 15 Cross Platform Mobile App Development Frameworks

Why do businesses prefer cross-platform mobile apps nowadays? Simply because cross platform applications have transformed the way businesses reach users, enabling unicode base to power applications across Android, iOS, and even desktop platforms saving time and resources. You only have to find the right cross platform app development frameworks, your go-to choice for quick market entry, wide reach and future proof scalability. 

Businesses can save up to 50-60% cost as compared to native development, and maintenance cost up to 60-70% with the best cross platform app development frameworks.

But wait as an entrepreneur or enterprises how do you select the right cross platform app framework? And how do these frameworks increase your business? 

Worry not, here in this article you will go through with the top 15 frameworks, the major factors, key features and business benefits that build cross platform apps for Android, iOS, and Windows and fill the gap with a single codebase. 

No more juggling, let’s understand in detail. 

Cross Platform Software Market Outlook

The cross-platform software market has grown swiftly in recent years, expected to rise from $77.91 billion in 2023 to $90.09 billion in 2024, at a CAGR of 15.6%. This growth is fueled by the rise of multiple operating systems, market globalization, changing consumer behavior, collaboration within the developer community, and the integration of legacy systems.

The cross-platform software market is projected to grow rapidly, reaching $162.25 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 15.8%. 

North America is the largest region in the cross platform app market. The increase in mobile usage and needs of applications that run across various platforms like iOS, Android and web is the major factor driving cross platform app development.

Did you know that popular cross-platform app development frameworks like Flutter and React Native are leading the charge, with Flutter powering 46% of new cross platform apps and React Native close behind at 32%.

According to Statista, Flutter is the most popular cross-platform mobile framework used by global developers. On an average one third of mobile developers use cross-platform technologies or frameworks; the rest of mobile developers use native tools.

Hence this is the right time to jump start your next big project with cross-platform mobile applications with the premium mobile application development company like Dev Story. Our professional team is efficient in building applications that deliver results to multiple users on any platform. Let us begin with an understanding about what cross platform app development is?

Cross Platform App Development Tools

What is Cross-platform App Development?

Cross-Platform app development involves building native looking applications that work smoothly on multiple platforms <Android, iOS and web>, offering wider customer reach and cost-efficiency while using a single codebase. And with decades of experience and platform proficiency, Dev Story leads the way in leveraging cross-platform app development frameworks for user engagement at its best.

Hence writing a separate code for each platform, programmers deploy it across several platforms. Create cross platform apps that are accessible to all platforms reducing development time, effort, and cost with cross-platform mobile development. 

This technology has enabled investors and entrepreneurs to invest for quick entry, easier deployment and maximum exposure. Achieve target reach, maximum engagement and conversion with these frameworks that use shared programming languages and APIs to obtain platform-specific features. 

Get ready to dive into the details of all the cross platform application frameworks that can build universal applications enhancing your app’s performance on multiple devices. 

1. Flutter

Flutter is one of the fastest-growing tools for cross-platform mobile development today. It’s a user interface toolkit created by Google that allows developers to build natively compiled apps for mobile, web, desktop, and embedded devices all from a single codebase.

The Skia graphics engine is making waves with its impressive 120Hz animations that can compete with native performance. In fact, by 2025, it’s powering 46% of all new cross-platform mobile apps! Flutter boasts a vibrant community of users worldwide and has become a go-to choice for many developers.

According to the Stack Overflow Trends, the usage of Flutter has been emerging over time.

It’s pretty impressive that nearly 46% of developers around the globe are turning to Flutter for their app development needs, showcasing its strong position in the market. Additionally, 4.23% of all apps in the app stores are built with Flutter, and a notable 12.62% of new applications are also utilizing this framework.

Key Features:

  • Hot reload for instant UI updates
  • Rich set of customizable widgets
  • High-performance rendering engine (Skia)
  • Single codebase for mobile, web, and desktop
  • Strong community and Google support
  • Native-like performance and adaptive UI

Flutter speeds up the time it takes to launch products, cuts down on expenses, and guarantees a smooth, top-notch user experience. This makes it a fantastic choice for businesses looking to reach multiple platforms using just one codebase.

Hire flutter developers efficient in building robust solutions and holding in depth knowledge across platforms, devices, industries and audiences, our flutter mobile app developers bring out the best in system performance, engagement and conversions. Hire Smartly!

Examples: eBay, Alibaba, Google Pay, ByteDance apps.

2. React Native

React Native, created by Meta, stands out as a top choice for cross platform app development tools, utilizing JavaScript and React. By 2025, a whopping 32% of new cross-platform apps will be built on it, thanks to its appealing “write once, run anywhere” approach and its thriving ecosystem.

Key Features:

  • Uses JavaScript/TypeScript and React
  • Native components for true platform feel
  • Fast refresh for quick iteration
  • Large ecosystem and third-party libraries
  • Strong community and enterprise adoption
  • Supports both iOS and Android with one codebase

A significant 42.62% of software developers are opting for ReactJS when it comes to web application development. (Source).

React Native is a game-changer for businesses, offering quick development, cost savings, and easy updates. It’s no wonder it’s a favorite choice for creating scalable, feature-packed cross-platform applications.

Are you looking for expert React Native developers for hire

Dev Story provides top-vetted talent to transform your mobile app ideas into reality. 

Hire within just 24 hours and build cross-platform apps with smooth performance, beautiful design, and user-focused experiences.

App examples: React Native is used in Microsoft’s Office, Skype, and Xbox Game Pass; and Meta’s Facebook.

3. Xamarin

Xamarin, supported by Microsoft, is a well-established cross platform app development tools for developing cross-platform applications using C# and .NET. It allows developers to create apps with native performance and user interfaces for iOS, Android, and Windows, all while using a single technology stack.

Key Features:

  • C# and .NET-based development
  • Native UI and performance
  • Access to platform-specific APIs
  • Shared codebase for all platforms
  • Integrated testing and debugging tools
  • Strong Microsoft and enterprise support

4. Kotlin Multiplatform

Kotlin Multiplatform (KMP) is a fantastic open-source technology developed by JetBrains that makes it easy to share code across different platforms while still enjoying the perks of native programming. It allows developers to reuse as much code as they like, write native code when necessary, and effortlessly integrate shared Kotlin code into any project.

Key Features:

  • Shared business logic in Kotlin
  • Native UI for each platform
  • Interoperability with Swift and Java
  • Strong JetBrains/Google support
  • Efficient code reuse and maintenance
  • Flexible for complex, large-scale apps

Mobile app examples: McDonald’s, Netflix, Forbes, 9GAG, Cash App, Philips

5. Ionic

Ionic is a well-loved open-source cross platform framework for mobile app development that lets you create hybrid and Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) using web technologies. It’s particularly praised for its extensive UI library and user-friendly design.

For web developers, picking up Ionic is a breeze, and it works seamlessly with other popular frameworks and libraries like Angular and Vue.js.

Plus, it comes equipped with tools that let you tap into native APIs and SDKs, ensuring that any app you build with Ionic has the look and feel of a true native application.

Key Features:

  • HTML, CSS, JavaScript-based
  • 100+ pre-built UI components
  • Integration with Angular, React, or Vue
  • Cross-platform deployment (iOS, Android, Web)
  • Cordova/Capacitor plugin support
  • Strong community and documentation

Mobile app examples: T-Mobile, BBC (Children’s & Education apps), EA Games.

Cross Platform App Development

6 .NET MAUI

.Net Maui is the latest and greatest C# solution for cross-platform app development. Maui lets you create apps using a shared C# codebase. One of the standout features of Maui is that it simplifies things by using just one codebase instead of needing separate ones for each platform. Plus, it fully supports Hot Reloading, which makes the development process a lot smoother and more efficient.

Key Features:

  • Single codebase for all platforms
  • Native UI and performance
  • Hot reload for rapid development
  • Rich UI toolkit and controls
  • Unified project structure
  • Backed by Microsoft and .NET ecosystem

Mobile app examples: NBC Sports Next, Escola Agil, Irth Solutions.

7. Apache Cordova (PhoneGap)

Apache Cordova, also known as PhoneGap, is a groundbreaking cross platform frameworks that allows developers to create mobile apps using web technologies across different platforms. It’s still a go-to choice for straightforward, content-focused applications that work on multiple platforms.

Building PhoneGap apps is a breeze since you can use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. If you’ve got some background in web development, you won’t need to pick up a new programming language. And for those just starting out, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are pretty easy to learn, making it simple to dive into app development.

Key Features:

  • HTML, CSS, JavaScript-based development
  • Supports multiple platforms with one codebase
  • Plugin-based access to native device features
  • Large developer community
  • Fast prototyping and deployment
  • Extensive documentation and resources

Cordova is cost-effective for simple cross platform mobile apps, enabling rapid deployment and easy maintenance for content-focused businesses

8. Swiftic

Swiftic is one of the user-friendly no-code/low-code cross platform mobile app development frameworks designed for small businesses to create mobile apps across different platforms. It makes the process of building and launching apps a breeze, even for those without any programming skills.

With Swiftic, businesses can quickly roll out cross-platform apps, making it easier and more affordable to embrace digital transformation.

Key Features:

  • Drag-and-drop app builder
  • Integration with social media and web content
  • Push notifications and loyalty features
  • Customizable templates
  • Unified control panel for management
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

9. NativeScript

NativeScript makes it easy to create native cross-platform applications using JavaScript, TypeScript, or Angular/Vue. It gives you direct access to native APIs without relying on WebViews. 

With NativeScript, you can achieve native-like performance and flexibility, which is perfect for businesses that require deep integration with device features in their cross-platform apps. You can tap directly into native APIs, allowing you to fully utilize all the functionalities that mobile devices offer. 

Key Features:

  • True native performance
  • Access to all native APIs
  • Supports Angular and Vue.js
  • Hot module replacement
  • Rich plugin ecosystem
  • Open-source with enterprise options

Mobile app examples: Daily Nanny, Strudel.

10. Sencha Touch

Developers use HTML5 to create your apps with Sencha. Sencha Touch is a JavaScript-based cross platform mobile app development frameworks designed for building cross-platform mobile applications, especially those that require a robust UI and are data-driven.

What makes it a favorite among developers is its compatibility with various devices and platforms. So, if you choose Sencha, collaborating with your team becomes a breeze, no matter where everyone is located. This ultimately leads to a significant boost in productivity. Plus, they provide a wealth of pre-built components that can save you a ton of time when coding.

Sencha also shines when it comes to testing tools. The testing features are tailored specifically for apps built with Ext JS, ensuring you get the most precise results from your tests.

Key Features:

  • Rich UI component library
  • MVC architecture
  • Data package for offline sync
  • Theming and customization tools
  • Cordova integration for native features
  • Enterprise support and documentation

Sencha Touch really shines when it comes to creating intricate, data-driven cross-platform applications for businesses that need a strong user interface and the ability to work offline.

11. Framework7

Framework7 is a fantastic, free, open-source framework that lets you build apps for both iOS and Android using web technologies. It’s a favorite among web developers because it offers a user interface that feels native. 

With Framework7, teams that are comfortable with web development can speed up their mobile app creation, providing a native-like experience and quick deployment for apps aimed at consumers.

Key Features:

  • HTML, CSS, JavaScript-based
  • Material and iOS design themes
  • Fast click and smooth animations
  • Built-in routing and state management
  • PWA support
  • Extensive UI widgets

12. Appcelerator Titanium

Appcelerator Titanium stands out as one of the leading options out there. It allows developers to develop cross platform apps using JavaScript, which then compiles into native code for both iOS and Android. This means you can reuse between 60% and 90% of the same code across all your apps.

That’s a massive time saver! For all the developers who have tackled coding from the ground up, you know just how much time and effort it can take to build everything from scratch.

Having the ability to jump in with more than half of the code already prepared is a big reason why Appcelerator Titanium has become such a favored tool for hybrid mobile app development.

Plus, Titanium is an open-source development tool, which means thousands of developers around the world are constantly contributing to its improvement.

Key Features:

  • JavaScript-based development
  • Access to native APIs and UI
  • Modular architecture
  • Alloy MVC framework
  • Cloud services integration
  • Strong enterprise adoption

13. Vue Native

Vue Native is a versatile mobile app framework that combines the familiar Vue.js syntax with React Native, making it easier for Vue developers to create mobile applications. It effectively connects the web and mobile worlds, allowing businesses to tap into their existing Vue.js expertise for seamless cross-platform app development.

Key Features:

  • Vue.js syntax and structure
  • Powered by React Native
  • Hot reload and fast refresh
  • Large plugin ecosystem
  • Supports both iOS and Android
  • Easy learning curve for Vue developers

14. SwiftUI

SwiftUI is Apple’s user-friendly framework that lets you create applications for iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS using Swift. It makes the process of building cross-platform apps within the Apple ecosystem a breeze, enhancing productivity and providing a seamless user experience across all Apple devices.

Key Features:

  • Declarative syntax for UI
  • Live preview and hot reload
  • Native performance on Apple devices
  • Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem
  • Adaptive layouts for all screens
  • Strong Apple developer support

15. jQuery Mobile

The jQuery Mobile framework really takes the “write less, do more” philosophy to a whole new level. Instead of having to create separate applications for every mobile device or operating system, this framework lets you craft a single, beautifully branded responsive website or app that works seamlessly across all the major smartphones, tablets, and desktop platforms.

jQuery Mobile is a sleek, cross-platform framework designed for creating mobile apps that are optimized for touch. It leverages the power of HTML5 and jQuery to help you build engaging web applications effortlessly.

Key Features:

  • HTML5 and jQuery-based
  • Touch-optimized UI components
  • Responsive design for all devices
  • Theming and customization
  • Easy integration with existing sites
  • Fast learning curve

jQuery Mobile is a great choice for businesses looking to create straightforward, content-focused cross-platform applications without a lot of development hassle.

These popular cross platform app development frameworks enable companies to produce high-quality, budget-friendly applications that can reach a global audience in 2025.

For your convenience, we’ve included a comparison table featuring the 15 most popular cross-platform app development frameworks in 2025, highlighting important factors like core language, performance, popularity, and more.

FrameworkCore languagePerformancePopularityCommunity supportNative vs hybridNotable feature/use cases
FlutterDartHighVery HighLarge, GrowingHybrid (Custom Widgets)Hot reload, expressive UI, mobile/web/desktop
React NativeJavaScript/TypeScriptHighVery HighLarge, ActiveHybrid (Native Components)Hot reload, reusable components, Facebook, Microsoft apps
XamarinC#/.NETHighHighHighHybrid (Native Bindings)Native UI/controls, compile-time checking, enterprise apps
Kotlin MultiplatformKotlinHighGrowingGrowingHybrid (Native Components)Business logic sharing, platform optimization, Netflix, McDonald’s
IonicHTML, CSS, JavaScriptModerateHighLargeHybrid (Web Views)100+ UI components, PWA support, fast prototyping
.NET MAUIC#HighGrowingLargeHybrid (Native Components)Unified project, native performance, hot reload
Apache Cordova (PhoneGap)HTML, CSS, JavaScriptLow-ModerateModerateLargeHybrid (Web Views)Plugin-based, rapid prototyping, easy for web devs
SwifticNo-code/Low-codeModerateModerateModerateHybrid (Web Views)No-code builder, fast deployment
NativeScriptJavaScript/TypeScriptHighModerateModerateNativeDirect native API access, Angular/Vue support
Sencha TouchJavaScriptModerateModerateModerateHybrid (Web Views)Rich UI widgets, Cordova integration, enterprise apps
Framework7HTML, CSS, JavaScriptModerateModerateModerateHybrid (Web Views)Material design, offline support
Appcelerator TitaniumJavaScriptModerateModerateModerateHybrid (Native API Access)Native API, modular architecture
Vue NativeJavaScript (Vue.js)ModerateGrowingModerateHybrid (React Native-based)Vue.js directives, React Native compatibility
SwiftUISwiftHigh (Apple only)High (iOS/macOS)LargeNative (Apple only)Live preview, multi-device support
jQuery MobileHTML, CSS, JavaScriptLowModerateModerateHybrid (Web Views)Simple UI, legacy support

What’s Propelling the Cross Platform Mobile Development Tools ?

The cross-platform app development frameworks market is taking off! The surge is triggered due to the need for cost effective, unified codebase and  innovations in frameworks. There are several factors propelling the growth of cross platform mobile development tool market, such as:

Increasing Demand: 

The growing demand for mobile applications has increased adoption of smartphones and tablets which has resulted in an increased demand for mobile applications across businesses. Companies understand that they need to create mobile applications in order to connect with their customers and offer personalized experiences. 

Cost-effectiveness: 

Cross-platform development tools enable developers to create mobile applications for multiple platforms with a single codebase, saving time and money. The shift from native to cross-platform development is a strategic choice, allowing for a balance between the need for quick deployment, cost-effectiveness, and a seamless user experience across various mobile operating systems.

Enhanced Customer Experience:

Cross platform applications create a uniform user experience on any device, enabling smooth functioning and increased customer satisfaction.

Technological Innovation:

Advancement in cloud computing, mobile technologies, and access to advanced development tools have improved cross-platform development in terms of efficiency and accessibility.

Also Read- Our guide on Top Mobile App Development Frameworks to Choose in 2025

How Cross-platform Mobile Development Frameworks Benefits Businesses?
Cross-platform Mobile Development Frameworks

Cross-platform mobile applications platforms have become the foundation of app strategies today, enabling businesses to engage users on iOS, Android, and more with one codebase.

By using the most effective cross platform application development frameworks, businesses can achieve maximum ROI, enhance user retention by up to 20%, and scale their digital presence cost-effectively. With the increasing need for cross platform apps, it is vital for any innovative business to know the advantages of cross platform app development frameworks,

  • Cost Savings: Creating a single codebase across several platforms reduces development expenses by 30–50% relative to creating native apps separately, making it the best choice for companies with low budgets.
  • Shorter Time-to-Market: With common code and optimized processes, companies can deploy apps 30–40% quicker, enabling faster product launches and prompt reaction to changing market conditions.
  • Broader Audience Reach: Cross-platform applications allow for simultaneous deployment on iOS and Android, automatically doubling your potential audience and boosting market penetration.
  • Uniform User Experience: A single codebase provides a consistent look and feel across multiple devices, enhancing user satisfaction, brand consistency, and retention rates.
  • Simplified Maintenance and Updates: All platforms can be updated and bug-fixed at the same time, saving maintenance effort and allowing all users to take advantage of enhancements simultaneously.
  • Efficient Resource Utilization: With cross platform app development tools companies require only one, smaller development team, simplifying project management and lowering overhead.
  • Market Testing and Flexibility: Cross-platform development is an inexpensive method to try out new concepts on multiple platforms, enabling businesses to immediately discover what works for their audience.
  • Scalability and Future-Proofing: As cross-platform platforms develop, they provide enhanced performance and features, enabling businesses to scale and modify their apps effectively for upcoming requirements.

Cross platform app development frameworks, enables companies to attain wider reach, quicker launches, and substantial cost savings, which makes it a wise and future-proof solution for the majority of organizations.

Choosing the right app development framework is crucial for any business success. Each framework comes with its own set of features, including variations in data storage options and support for different programming languages.

And more importantly choosing the app development company has also become the major concern nowadays.

Don’t let the decision overwhelm you—check out our guide on how to choose the perfect mobile app development company to bring your dream cross-platform app to life!

Cross platform mobile apps

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cross-Platform Mobile App Development Framework

The question arises how to select the best cross platform mobile app development frameworks?

Selecting the correct cross-platform mobile application development framework is a vital choice that has a significant impact on your app’s performance, scalability, cost, and long-term success. The ideal cross-platform app development framework for your project is based on a diligent assessment of technical specifications, business objectives, and resources available.

Cross-platform mobile application development is an increasingly strategic option for companies in 2025, providing a single approach to engage both iOS and Android users effectively. Through the use of cross platform frameworks, businesses are able to lower costs, accelerate development, and ensure consistency in user experience, making it a viable choice for digital maximalism.

Below are the key factors to consider when choosing a cross-platform mobile app development framework:

Break Down Project Requirements

  • Determine the level of complexity of your app, must-have features, UI/UX level of sophistication, and target platforms (web, desktop, iOS, Android).
  • For applications that require cutting-edge graphics or custom animations, frameworks such as Flutter would be a better option.

Performance Requirements

  • Identify how important native-like performance is to your app.
  • If high responsiveness, smooth animation, or access at the hardware level is imperative, choose the frameworks that have close-to-native performance, i.e., Flutter or React Native.

Programming Language & Team Expertise

  • Select a framework that works with your team’s current expertise (e.g., JavaScript for React Native/Ionic, Dart for Flutter, C# for Xamarin).
  • 8 out of 10 industry sources emphasize that team proficiency in the programming language is a big determining factor.

Community Support & Ecosystem

  • A big and great community guarantees improved support, more often updated, and a huge variety of plugins and libraries.
  • Platforms such as React Native and Flutter have strong communities, so it is simpler to troubleshoot and extend the features.

Cost Savings

  • Utmost compare both development and maintenance costs over time.
  • “write once, run anywhere” (WORA) supported frameworks can save your costs by as much as 30% when compared to native app development.

Native Feature Access

  • If your application needs deep integration with device hardware like camera, GPS, sensors, make sure the framework offers efficient native API access or plugin support (e.g., NativeScript, React Native, Xamarin).

Scalability and Maintainability

  • Think about how easily the framework facilitates scaling, code maintenance, and future upgrades.
  • Choose frameworks with good modularity, better testing tools, and post maintainability features.

Licensing and Costs

  • It is important to check licensing terms and possible costs that are involved with the framework, particularly for enterprise use.

Security and Robustness

  • Security must be non compromisable. As we become more dependent on mobile apps for everything from healthcare to shopping to ordering food and groceries, the importance of security and data privacy has skyrocketed. Assess the framework’s security best practices and history for managing sensitive information and avoiding data breaches. 

Mobile App Security Best Practices

Conclusion

Cross-platform app development is shaping up to be one of the top trends to keep in mind when you’re looking to hire Dedicated app developers. The push for cost-effectiveness and a wider market reach is what makes this approach so appealing. Cross-platform development enables developers to build apps that work smoothly across various operating systems like iOS and Android, which ultimately saves both time and resources.

Choice is based on project needs, team capabilities, and targeted platform audience. 

Do you have an excellent concept of an app but want to develop it quickly, and on a budget? Don’t worry, we can make it happen.

We’ll take care of your app’s development every step of the way, from validating your idea to providing maintenance and updates after launch. So to start cost-effective development, Contact Dev Story and get all-inclusive cross platform app development services for all types of devices. 

Our experts provide high-quality custom application development and other software development solutions.

We create apps that adhere to high security and data privacy standards for gaining user trust and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Take the opportunity and tap into this thriving app development market to make your mark in crafting data driven solutions with these cross platform app development frameworks.

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Written By
Aman bhatia
Co-Founder
If revenue transformation had a playbook, Aman Bhatia wrote it. With 9+ years of scaling IT enterprises, he’s engineered $50M+ in funding secured for clients, 10X growth delivered across portfolios in 5 years, Agile-powered sales strategies that outpace market shifts. A rare blend of dealmaker and strategist, Aman doesn’t just meet targets—he redesigns the pipeline.