The mobile developer: a booming profession

The mobile developer is an essential link in the booming digital industry. Its role is of paramount importance in design. of mobile applications. Therefore, its function covers a broad spectrum of skills, ranging from programming to design through ergonomics. Zoom on this profile that is on the rise!

What is a mobile developer?

A mobile developer takes on the role of designer of applications dedicated to smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices. Its core business lies in computer programming and the software development specifically adapted to mobile operating systems such as Android or iOS.

More specifically, a mobile developer takes care of creating or optimizing the source code of applications. To this end, it must mobilize dedicated programming languages such as Java, Swift or Kotlin. His expertise in technical solutions allows him to translate the specifications of a specification into lines of code that can be executed on targeted platforms.

In terms of qualities, this professional demonstrates keen logic, analytical skills and problem-solving skills. Her creativity is an asset when it comes to imagining innovative functionalities. In addition, he must know how to work closely with project managers and is responsible for clearly documenting his developments.

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What are the missions of a mobile developer?

The missions undertaken by a mobile developer are multiple and cover several dimensions:

• Application programming: the mobile developer codes the functionalities of the mobile applications in accordance with the specifications of the specifications. It optimizes performance and takes into account operating system constraints.
• User interface design: this professional designs ergonomic and intuitive interfaces to guarantee the best possible user experience.
• Integration of multimedia content: it also integrates various multimedia content such as images, videos or sounds into mobile applications.
• Technological advice: the mobile developer, with its expertise, also advises project managers (AMOA or MOA) on technological choices and makes recommendations for developing applications.
• Tests and validation: before launch, it carries out batteries of tests to detect any bug or security breach. It thus guarantees the conformity and reliability of the deliverables.

In the end, the mobile developer is distinguished by his versatility. Its role is decisive in the realization of mobile applications and services that are at the same time innovative, efficient and completely secure.

What training courses to become a mobile developer?

Several courses beyond the bac level allow you to acquire the skills required to work as a mobile developer. The available courses are as follows:

• Bac+2: the candidate can validate a BTS computer services to organizations (SIO) or a BTS digital systems (SN). These courses in two years after the baccalaureate provide a first base of knowledge in programming and development.
• License: a general computer license or a specialized professional license such as a professional license in computer science (option web applications, full stack developer course) or a professional license in web and multimedia developer are the right level to move towards the job of mobile developer. These courses in 3 years after the bac allow you to acquire in-depth skills.
• Bac+5: the future mobile developer can also validate a professional master's degree in web information systems or a diploma from computer engineering schools. This high level of studies provides recognized expertise in the latest computer development technologies.

Thus, each candidate can find training adapted to their professional project and their preferences to become a mobile developer. However, a high level of qualification is a major asset for exercising this profession, like the majority of IT jobs.

In terms of job opportunities, a mobile developer will generally find a position in ESN (digital service companies), in start-ups, with telephone operators, etc.

What technologies do you need to master to be a good mobile developer?

Several languages and technologies occupy a central place in the job of mobile developer.

On iOS, mastering Swift and Objective-C technologies is clearly required for the programming language associated with the Cocoa Touch, UIKit, SpriteKit or ARKit frameworks.

About Android, the Java language remains essential in addition to the Android SDK and APIs like Jetpack. Android mobile developers should also know how to code in XML or Kotlin, the language put forward by Google.

Finally, multi-platform languages and frameworks such as React Native, Xamarin or even Flutter are tending to democratize to offer iOS and Android applications by sharing a common code base.

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How do I choose the right development technology?

The choice of technology depends above all on the priority target between iOS and Android and on the type of application to be designed.

Les multi-platform solutions often offer a good compromise with the flexibility of cross-platform coding.

In addition, the development team in place in the company generally guides technological choices for greater coherence of projects.

In any case, the mobile developer must constantly make sure to update their technical skills on the latest languages and frameworks on the market. Its capacity for self-training to adapt to the rapid changes in the mobile world is a major asset.

iOS or Android mobile developer?

The question is not necessarily asked in such clear-cut terms. Indeed, some mobile developers choose to improve their skills on both iOS and Android platforms to maximize their career opportunities. This increased versatility can clearly differentiate a profile.

However, some mobile developers claim their status as “experts”, either iOS or Android, by betting everything on one platform. This strategy makes it possible to push their mastery of the inner workings and the latest technologies associated with a specific technological universe to a very great extent.

The 3 key points to remember:

• A mobile developer combines programming skills with an ability to understand business needs to design innovative and perfectly secure mobile applications.
• Mastering languages like Java, Swift, or Kotlin is essential to code effectively on Android and iOS platforms.
• The courses dedicated to mobile development are multiple: from bac+2 to bac+5, each profile can find a qualification adapted to their ambitions in this promising technological sector.

Our talent site is the reference for finding THE right opportunity: we reference every day of new offers in the new technology sector.

But not only that! We also provide you with exclusive resources - white papers, practical guides, in-depth articles... - to give your career a boost.

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