Understanding the iOS Platform

What is the iOS Programming Platform?

Apple continues to be a powerhouse when it comes to offering technological solutions to the greater public. This company fiercely competes with Google’s Android platform, though most customers typically choose one operating system over the other for all their devices. This is not always the case, which is why both companies continue to enjoy huge success either way. 

The iOS programming platform is used to create apps for the Apple mobile operating system. To reiterate, these apps are used specifically for Apple devices, not Android devices. The latter devices use Google Play in order to download Android apps, whereas iOS users visit The App Store. To date, there are over 4 million iOS apps available for download. 

Games are one of the most popular downloaded apps on The App Store, in contrast to the apps most people download on Android devices to use as tools for some application or another. That being said, the revenues of iOS apps vs. Android apps tell a bigger story in that iOS revenue is nearly double that of Android. 

When it comes to iOS programming, it’s much easier to develop these apps than it is to do the same for Android. This relies on the limited type of iOS devices available that use a similar operating platform. Streamlined in this way, iOS apps are easier to test and implement than Android devices, but that’s not to say they don’t face their own challenges. 

What Types of Jobs Can I Get with iOS Programming

Mobile apps are expected to generate over $935 billion by next year. There are millions of iPhone and Android users ready to download apps from social networking, location-based, ecommerce, and utility to multimedia and enterprise. 

Here are some of the rewarding careers you can excel in with a degree in mobile app development:

• Full Stack Developer
• Software Developer
• Mobile App Developer
• iOS Developer
• Application Developer
• Game Developer
• Web Developer
• Front End Developer

The average salary for a software developer is about $145,000 per year, which translates to roughly $74 per hour. Indeed reports similar numbers at $120,000 per year, which is echoed by Glassdoor and ZipRecruiter. App developers should know be knowledgeable in front- and back-end development, mobile application development platforms (MADPs), and programming languages such as Swift, Objective-C, C#, HTML5, Java, React Native, and Flutter.

If you’d like to see what it’s like to develop an iOS program at Google, check out Kenneth’s story. 

Skills and duties of an app developer who leverages the iOS programming platform include spatial reasoning, core data, networking, Git and GitHub, design, and Grand Central Dispatch (GCD). App developers will create and design mobile apps for the iOS operating system by coordinating with design and user experience teams to identify bugs, enhance performance, and ultimately release the app on The App Store. 

These app developers may be asked to test and maintain iOS apps as well. As new features develop and updates need to be made, this becomes an evolving process that could easily result in a rewarding career working with a number of clients on innovative apps that change lives. 

How Do I Learn iOS Programming

Building a foundation of knowledge in software development is the key to learning how to program in iOS. As you gain experience, you’ll get to know the Mac ecosystem, from learning Xcode to implementing swift to build your first full-stack application. Successful iOS programmers go on to apply for internships and get involved in the larger iOS community to achieve junior level positions. 

There are many training resources, both free and paid, that you can take advantage of to learn more about iOS programming:

• App Developer: Straight from Apple, this resource includes 14 hours of material. Plus, you can earn certification through Certiport.
• Udacity: This 6-month course includes topics such as Xcode, Grand Central Dispatch, and Swift programming languages.
• AppCoda: Though more casual, this resource includes both free and paid options, as well as ebooks. There are more than 40 practice projects, as well as a final portfolio. 
• Coursera: This resource includes paid opportunities to learn more about iOS programming. 
• Coding Explorer: Browse this resource to pick up handy tips and complete educational tutorials. 
• Swift Programming: The Big Nerd Ranch Guide: This is a great book to pick up after you’ve learned the basics.

At the same time, bootcamps can only take you so far. 

How to Land a Position in iOS Programming

Prospective iOS programmers can certainly test the waters by completing certifications and free training online, but there’s no substitute for formal education provided by an accredited university such as the California Institute of Arts & Technology (CIAT). At CIAT, we offer a number of programs to help you develop skills as an iOS programmer with small class sizes, hands-on learning, and plenty of certification opportunities to set you apart at any interview. 

Most of our students who are interested in iOS programming pursue an Applied Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development – Mobile App Development Degree. This degree prepares them for app development in both iOS and Android variations with a focus on designing, building, and maintaining mobile apps on both popular platforms. Students will also learn the foundational languages and core programming and interface concepts to help them succeed once they graduate. 

Many of the technical courses with this degree program include opportunities to develop and test mobile apps. When it comes to iOS programming specifically, students will learn how to use Swift and Objective-C to accomplish various tasks. A senior project will combine the skills students have learned over the course of the program in order to boost their resume and portfolio come time to seek out employment. 

Learning how to develop, create, and maintain your own iOS apps can be exciting for young programming minds eager to make a difference. Boost your programming education and stand out from your peers with an education specifically in mobile app development from the California Institute of Arts & Technology. We’ve got the resources you need to succeed, with a wealth of certification opportunities to create a dynamic resume to demonstrate your skills. 

Are you ready to learn more about how you can become an iOS programmer? Get in touch with an advisor who can help you through the entire process, from choosing and enrolling in a degree path to graduating with a career in your sights.