Mobile App Development Dictionary (175 App Development Terms Explained)

Thinking of launching an app, but confused about some of the words you’re seeing out there?

We’ve got you.🤝

At MobiLoud, we’ve been in the business of mobile apps for over 13 years, helping ecommerce brands and online businesses launch low-maintenance, high-ROI mobile apps.

With that experience, we’ve put together this authoritative guide to mobile app development terminology.

This comprehensive dictionary contains 175 essential terms specifically related to mobile app development. Each term includes a clear definition, context for its relevance to mobile development, and practical examples. 

It covers native development (iOS and Android), cross-platform frameworks (React Native, Flutter, Ionic), and PWA technologies.

So, if you run across a word you’re not familiar with, just hit Ctrl+F and you’ll find what you’re looking for.

A

AAB (Android App Bundle)‍

The modern Android app publishing format that replaces APK. AAB files are smaller and allow Google Play to generate optimized APKs for different device configurations.‍

Context: A more efficient distribution format introduced by Google.

Example: A developer uploads an AAB file to Google Play, which then generates optimized APKs for different screen densities and CPU architectures.

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Activity‍

A single screen with a user interface in an Android app. Activities are the building blocks of Android applications.‍

Context: A fundamental component of Android app architecture.‍

Example: An Android shopping app has separate activities for the product list, product details, and checkout screens.

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Accelerometer

A sensor that measures the acceleration forces acting on a device. Used for detecting device orientation and motion.‍

Context: Enables motion-based features in mobile apps.‍

Example: A fitness app uses the accelerometer to count steps and detect when the user is running or walking.

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Ahead-of-Time (AOT) Compilation

A compilation strategy where code is compiled to native machine code before the app runs, rather than at runtime.

Context: Used in Flutter and some React Native configurations for better performance.

Example: Flutter uses AOT compilation for release builds to achieve native performance.

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Android Debug Bridge (ADB)

A command-line tool that allows developers to communicate with Android devices for debugging, installing apps, and accessing device logs.

Context: An essential tool for Android development and testing.

Example: A developer uses ADB to install a debug build of their app on a connected Android device.

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Android Manifest

An XML file that contains essential information about an Android app, including permissions, components, and hardware requirements.

Context: Required for every Android app and defines app configuration.

Example: The Android Manifest declares that an app needs camera and location permissions.

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Android Profiler

A set of tools in Android Studio for analyzing app performance, including CPU, memory, network, and battery usage.

Context: Essential for identifying and fixing performance issues in Android apps.

Example: A developer uses Android Profiler to identify a memory leak causing their app to crash.

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App Extensions

iOS features that allow apps to extend their functionality to other parts of the system, such as widgets, share sheets, or custom keyboards.

Context: Enables apps to provide functionality outside the main app.

Example: A photo editing app provides a share extension so users can edit photos directly from the Photos app.

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App Review

The process by which Apple and Google review submitted apps before making them available in their app stores.

Context: A mandatory step for publishing apps that can take hours to days.

Example: A developer submits their app for review and receives feedback about guideline violations that need to be fixed.

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App Startup Time

The time it takes for an app to launch and become interactive. A critical performance metric.

Context: Users expect apps to launch quickly; slow startup times lead to poor user experience.

Example: A developer optimizes their app to reduce startup time from 3 seconds to under 1 second.

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App Thinning

An iOS optimization that delivers only the resources needed for a specific device, reducing download size.

Context: Automatically handled by the App Store to minimize app size.

Example: An app with assets for all iPhone models only downloads retina assets on older devices.

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App Transport Security (ATS)

An iOS security feature that enforces secure network connections using HTTPS.

Context: Protects user data by requiring encrypted connections.

Example: An iOS app must configure ATS exceptions to connect to a legacy HTTP server.

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AsyncStorage

A simple, asynchronous key-value storage system for React Native apps.

Context: Used for persisting data locally in React Native applications.

Example: A React Native app uses AsyncStorage to save user preferences and settings.

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Accessibility

The practice of designing and developing apps so that people with disabilities can use them. This includes support for screen readers, dynamic font sizes, and high-contrast modes.

Context: Essential for creating an inclusive user experience and is a legal requirement in many jurisdictions.

Example: Ensuring all images in an ecommerce app have descriptive alt text so that visually impaired users can understand the content.

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Android Studio

The official integrated development environment (IDE) for Android app development. It provides tools for building, testing, and debugging Android applications.

Context: The primary tool for developers building native Android apps or working with Android-specific parts of a hybrid app.

Example: A developer uses Android Studio to build and sign the Android version of a React Native ecommerce app.

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API (Application Programming Interface)

A set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate with each other. APIs are used to fetch data, such as product information, from a server and display it in the app.

Context: The backbone of modern app development, enabling the front-end of an app to interact with back-end services.

Example: A mobile app uses a REST API to retrieve product details from an ecommerce platform like Shopify or BigCommerce.

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API Key

A unique code that is passed in to an API to identify the calling application. It is used to authenticate the app and track its usage of the API.

Context: Used to control access to an API and prevent unauthorized use.

Example: An ecommerce app includes an API key in its requests to a payment gateway's API to process transactions.

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App Clip (iOS) / Instant App (Android)

A small part of an app that is discoverable at the moment it is needed. App Clips and Instant Apps allow users to access a specific feature of an app without downloading the full application.

Context: Useful for ecommerce use cases like paying for a purchase or viewing a specific product without requiring a full app install.

Example: A user scans a QR code on a product in a physical store and an App Clip or Instant App opens, allowing them to purchase the item directly from their phone.

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App Store Optimization (ASO)

The process of optimizing a mobile app to rank higher in an app store’s search results. The goal is to increase the app’s visibility and drive more downloads.

Context: Similar to search engine optimization (SEO) for websites, ASO is crucial for the discoverability of an ecommerce app.

Example: Improving an app’s title, description, and keywords in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store to attract more organic downloads.

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App Shell

The minimal HTML, CSS, and JavaScript required to power the user interface of a progressive web app (PWA) or hybrid app. The app shell is cached so that it loads quickly on subsequent visits, and dynamic content is loaded separately.

Context: A key architectural pattern for building fast, reliable PWAs and hybrid apps.

Example: An ecommerce PWA uses an app shell for its header, footer, and navigation, while the product listings and other content are loaded dynamically.

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APNs (Apple Push Notification Service)

Apple's cloud-based service for sending push notifications to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS devices.

Context: The required service for sending push notifications to Apple devices.

Example: An ecommerce app integrates with APNs to send order confirmation and shipping update notifications to iPhone users.

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APK (Android Package Kit)

The package file format used by the Android operating system for distribution and installation of mobile apps.

Context: The Android equivalent of an iOS IPA file.

Example: A developer builds an APK file of their ecommerce app to distribute to testers or submit to the Google Play Store.

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App Signing Key

A cryptographic key used to sign an Android app. Google Play uses the app signing key to verify the app's authenticity and ensure it hasn't been tampered with.

Context: A critical security component for Android app distribution.

Example: A developer generates an app signing key when preparing to publish their ecommerce app to the Google Play Store.

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Async/Await

A syntax for handling asynchronous operations in JavaScript. It makes asynchronous code look and behave more like synchronous code, which can make it easier to read and understand.

Context: A modern approach to handling asynchronous operations in JavaScript applications.

Example: A developer uses async/await to fetch product data from an API in a React Native app.

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Authentication

The process of verifying the identity of a user. This is typically done through a username and password, but can also involve other methods like social login (e.g., "Sign in with Google") or biometric authentication (e.g., Face ID or fingerprint scan).

Context: A fundamental security measure for any ecommerce app that handles user accounts and personal information.

Example: A user logs in to their account on an ecommerce app using their email address and password.

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Authorization

The process of determining whether a user has permission to access a specific resource or perform a specific action.

Context: Works in conjunction with authentication to control access to app features and data.

Example: An ecommerce app checks whether a user is authorized to view their order history before displaying it.

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B

Background Modes

iOS capabilities that allow apps to perform specific tasks while running in the background.

Context: Enables features like audio playback, location updates, and background fetch.

Example: A music streaming app uses background audio mode to continue playing music when the app is minimized.

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Battery Optimization

Techniques and practices to reduce an app's battery consumption.

Context: Critical for user satisfaction; battery-draining apps are often uninstalled.

Example: A developer reduces battery usage by limiting background location updates to only when necessary.

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Beta Testing

The phase of testing where a pre-release version of an app is distributed to a limited audience for feedback.

Context: Helps identify bugs and gather user feedback before public release.

Example: A developer uses TestFlight to distribute a beta version to 100 testers.

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Bottom Sheet

A UI component that slides up from the bottom of the screen, commonly used for menus or additional content.

Context: A popular mobile UI pattern for presenting options or information.

Example: A maps app uses a bottom sheet to display location details when a user taps a pin.

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Badge

A small visual indicator, typically a number, that appears on an app’s icon to notify the user of new information, such as unread messages or new items in their cart.

Context: Used to re-engage users and prompt them to open the app.

Example: A shopping app displays a badge on its icon to show the number of items the user has left in their shopping cart.

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Biometric Authentication

A security process that uses a person’s unique biological characteristics to verify their identity. This includes fingerprint scanning, facial recognition (like Apple’s Face ID), and voice recognition.

Context: Increasingly used in mobile apps to provide a secure and convenient alternative to passwords.

Example: An ecommerce app allows users to log in and authorize payments using their fingerprint or Face ID.

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Bluetooth

A wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances. In ecommerce, Bluetooth can be used for in-store navigation, proximity marketing, and connecting to peripheral devices like receipt printers.

Context: Enables location-based services and enhances the in-store shopping experience.

Example: A retail app uses Bluetooth beacons to send targeted offers to customers as they walk through different sections of a store.

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Bridge (Native Bridge)

A mechanism that allows communication between JavaScript code and native code in a hybrid app. This is what enables a webview-based app to access native device features like the camera or GPS.

Context: A fundamental component of hybrid app frameworks like React Native and Capacitor.

Example: A hybrid app uses a native bridge to open the device’s camera so the user can take a picture of their credit card to complete a purchase.

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Build

The process of compiling an app's source code and assets into a distributable package that can be installed on a device. For Android, this is an APK or AAB file; for iOS, it is an IPA file.

Context: A key step in the development and deployment process.

Example: A developer creates a release build of their Android app to submit to the Google Play Store.

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Bundle

In the context of mobile development, a bundle refers to a packaged collection of code and resources. In React Native, Metro bundler creates JavaScript bundles that are loaded by the app.

Context: A fundamental concept in hybrid and React Native app development.

Example: A React Native app loads a JavaScript bundle that contains all the app's code and logic.

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C

Calendar API

Platform APIs that allow apps to access and modify the device's calendar.

Context: Enables apps to create events and integrate with the user's schedule.

Example: A meeting app uses the Calendar API to automatically add scheduled meetings to the user's calendar.

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Camera API

Platform APIs that provide access to the device's camera for capturing photos and videos.

Context: Essential for apps that need photo or video capture functionality.

Example: A social media app uses the Camera API to let users take and share photos.

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Certificate Pinning

A security technique that validates the server's SSL certificate against a known copy to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks.

Context: Provides enhanced security for sensitive communications.

Example: A banking app uses certificate pinning to ensure it only communicates with legitimate bank servers.

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CocoaPods

A dependency manager for iOS and macOS projects written in Swift and Objective-C.

Context: The most popular dependency manager for iOS development before Swift Package Manager.

Example: A developer uses CocoaPods to install and manage third-party libraries in their iOS app.

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Code Splitting

A technique that breaks an app's code into smaller chunks that can be loaded on demand.

Context: Reduces initial load time by only loading necessary code.

Example: A React Native app uses code splitting to load feature modules only when users access them.

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Contacts API

Platform APIs that allow apps to access the device's contact list.

Context: Enables apps to integrate with user contacts for social features.

Example: A messaging app uses the Contacts API to help users find friends who are already using the app.

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Core Data

Apple's framework for managing the model layer of an iOS or macOS app, providing object graph management and persistence.

Context: A powerful data persistence solution for iOS apps.

Example: An iOS app uses Core Data to store and manage complex data relationships offline.

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Crashlytics

A crash reporting tool (now part of Firebase) that helps developers track and fix app crashes.

Context: Essential for monitoring app stability in production.

Example: A developer uses Crashlytics to identify that 5% of users are experiencing a crash on app startup.

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Cache

A temporary storage area for data. In mobile apps, caching is used to store frequently accessed data, such as product images, to reduce loading times and minimize network requests.

Context: A critical performance optimization technique.

Example: An ecommerce app caches product images on the device so that they load instantly when the user revisits a product page.

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Capacitor

A modern, open-source framework for building hybrid mobile apps. Developed by the Ionic team, Capacitor allows web developers to build apps that run on iOS, Android, and the web using a single codebase. It is the successor to Cordova.

Context: A popular choice for building high-performance hybrid apps with full access to native device features.

Example: A developer uses Capacitor to wrap their existing React-based ecommerce website into a native mobile app.

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Certificate

A digital file that is used to verify the identity of a developer or an app. In mobile development, code signing certificates are used to sign apps before they can be installed on a device or submitted to an app store.

Context: A critical security measure that ensures an app comes from a trusted source and has not been tampered with.

Example: A developer signs their iOS app with a certificate issued by Apple before submitting it to the App Store.

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CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery)

A set of practices that automate the process of building, testing, and deploying software. CI/CD pipelines for mobile apps can automate everything from running tests to submitting new builds to the app stores.

Context: A key component of modern software development that enables teams to release high-quality apps more frequently and reliably.

Example: A development team uses a CI/CD service like Bitrise or Jenkins to automatically build and test their app every time new code is pushed to the repository.

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Code Signing

The process of digitally signing an app with a certificate to verify the author’s identity and ensure that the code has not been altered since it was signed.

Context: A mandatory step for distributing apps on both iOS and Android.

Example: A developer uses Xcode to code sign their iOS app before distributing it for testing or submitting it to the App Store.

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Cordova

An open-source framework for building hybrid mobile apps using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. While once popular, Cordova has largely been superseded by more modern frameworks like Capacitor.

Context: A legacy hybrid app framework that is still used in some older applications.

Example: An older ecommerce app built with Cordova is migrated to Capacitor to take advantage of better performance and a more modern development experience.

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Core Components (React Native)

A set of essential, ready-to-use components for building user interfaces in React Native. These include components for displaying text, images, and lists, as well as for handling user input.

Context: The building blocks of a React Native app’s user interface.

Example: A developer uses the View, Text, and Image core components to create a product details screen in a React Native app.

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Cross-Platform Development

The practice of building an app that can run on multiple platforms (such as iOS and Android) from a single codebase. Frameworks like React Native, Flutter, and Ionic enable cross-platform development.

Context: A popular approach for reducing development time and cost compared to building separate native apps for each platform.

Example: A startup chooses to build their ecommerce app with Flutter so they can target both iOS and Android users with a single team of developers.

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D

Detox

An end-to-end testing framework for React Native apps that runs tests on actual devices or simulators.

Context: Enables automated UI testing for React Native applications.

Example: A development team uses Detox to automate testing of their checkout flow.

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Drawer Navigation

A navigation pattern where a menu slides in from the side of the screen, typically accessed via a hamburger icon.

Context: A common mobile navigation pattern for accessing app sections.

Example: A news app uses drawer navigation to let users switch between different news categories.

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Deep Linking

A technique that allows a URL to open a specific screen or content within a mobile app. Deep links are used to create seamless user experiences, for example, by taking a user from a marketing email directly to a product page in the app.

Context: Essential for mobile marketing and re-engagement campaigns.

Example: An ecommerce app sends a push notification with a deep link that opens a specific product page when the user taps on it.

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Deployment

The process of making an app available for users to download and install. This typically involves submitting the app to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Context: The final step in the app development lifecycle before an app goes live.

Example: A developer follows the submission guidelines for the Google Play Store to deploy their new ecommerce app.

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Developer Portal

A web-based portal provided by platform vendors like Apple and Google where developers can manage their apps, view analytics, and access development resources.

Context: The central hub for developers to manage their presence on the app stores.

Example: A developer logs in to the Apple Developer Portal to create a new App ID for their ecommerce app.

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Device Farm

A cloud-based service that allows developers to test their apps on a wide range of real physical devices. This is used to ensure that an app works correctly on different screen sizes, operating system versions, and hardware configurations.

Context: A valuable tool for quality assurance (QA) and testing.

Example: A QA team uses AWS Device Farm to test their ecommerce app on hundreds of different Android and iOS devices.

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Dynamic Linking

A technique that allows an app to link to shared libraries at runtime rather than at compile time. This can reduce app size and allow for code sharing between apps.

Context: An advanced optimization technique used in native app development.

Example: An iOS app uses dynamic linking to share code with an app extension.

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E

Enterprise Distribution

An iOS distribution method that allows organizations to distribute apps internally without going through the App Store.

Context: Used by companies to deploy internal apps to employees.

Example: A company distributes an internal employee directory app using Enterprise Distribution.

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Entitlements

Capabilities and permissions that an iOS app can request, such as push notifications or iCloud access.

Context: Defines what iOS features an app can use.

Example: A developer adds the push notification entitlement to enable remote notifications in their iOS app.

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Espresso

Google's testing framework for writing automated UI tests for Android apps.

Context: The standard framework for Android UI testing.

Example: A QA team uses Espresso to write automated tests for their Android app's login flow.

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Emulator

A software application that runs on a computer and simulates the hardware and software of a mobile device. Emulators are used by developers to test their apps without needing a physical device.

Context: An essential tool for mobile app development and testing.

Example: A developer uses the Android Emulator in Android Studio to test their app on a simulated Pixel device.

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Expo

An open-source platform for making universal native apps for Android, iOS, and the web with JavaScript and React. Expo provides a set of tools and services that make it easier to build, deploy, and iterate on React Native apps.

Context: A popular choice for developers who want to build React Native apps without dealing with native code.

Example: A developer uses Expo to quickly prototype and build an ecommerce app for both iOS and Android.

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Extension

A software component that adds a specific feature to an existing application. In the context of ecommerce platforms, extensions can be used to add new functionality, such as a new payment method or shipping option.

Context: A way to customize and extend the functionality of an ecommerce platform.

Example: A developer installs an extension to their Magento store to integrate with a third-party tax calculation service.

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F

Fabric

React Native's new rendering system that improves performance and enables new capabilities.

Context: Part of React Native's new architecture for better performance.

Example: A React Native app migrates to Fabric to achieve smoother animations and faster rendering.

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Face ID

Apple's facial recognition system for biometric authentication on iOS devices.

Context: Provides secure and convenient authentication on modern iPhones.

Example: An app uses Face ID to authenticate users before displaying sensitive financial information.

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Fragment

A reusable portion of an Android app's UI that can be combined to create multi-pane layouts.

Context: A fundamental building block for flexible Android UIs.

Example: An Android tablet app uses fragments to show a list and detail view side-by-side.

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Frame Rate

The frequency at which consecutive images (frames) are displayed, measured in frames per second (fps). Mobile apps target 60fps for smooth UI.

Context: Critical for perceived app performance and smoothness.

Example: A developer optimizes their app to maintain 60fps during scrolling for a smooth user experience.

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Fastlane

An open-source tool suite that automates the process of building and releasing mobile apps. Fastlane can be used to automate tasks like code signing, taking screenshots, and submitting apps to the app stores.

Context: A popular tool for streamlining the deployment process and implementing CI/CD for mobile apps.

Example: A developer uses Fastlane to automate the process of building their iOS app, uploading it to TestFlight, and submitting it for review.

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Feature Flag

A technique that allows developers to turn features of an app on or off without deploying new code. Feature flags are used to test new features with a subset of users, perform A/B tests, and roll back features that are causing problems.

Context: A powerful tool for managing the release of new features and reducing risk.

Example: An ecommerce app uses a feature flag to roll out a new checkout flow to 10% of its users to gather feedback before releasing it to everyone.

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Firebase

A mobile and web application development platform from Google. Firebase provides a suite of tools for building, improving, and growing apps, including analytics, databases, messaging, and crash reporting.

Context: A popular choice for mobile app developers looking for a comprehensive backend-as-a-service (BaaS) solution.

Example: An ecommerce app uses Firebase for its real-time database, push notifications, and analytics.

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Flutter

An open-source UI software development kit created by Google. It is used to develop applications for Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, Windows, Google Fuchsia, and the web from a single codebase.

Context: A popular choice for cross-platform development, known for its high performance and expressive UI.

Example: A developer uses Flutter to build a beautiful, high-performance ecommerce app for both iOS and Android.

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FCM (Firebase Cloud Messaging)

A cross-platform messaging solution from Google that lets you reliably send messages and notifications at no cost.

Context: The primary service for sending push notifications to Android devices and a popular choice for iOS as well.

Example: An ecommerce app uses FCM to send push notifications to both Android and iOS users.

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Frontend

The user-facing part of an application that the user interacts with directly. In a mobile app, the frontend is the user interface (UI) that is displayed on the screen.

Context: The part of the app that is responsible for presenting data to the user and capturing user input.

Example: A developer uses React Native to build the frontend of an ecommerce app, which communicates with a backend built on Node.js.

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G

Gradle

The build automation tool used for Android app development.

Context: Handles dependency management, building, and packaging Android apps.

Example: A developer configures Gradle to include third-party libraries and set build variants for their Android app.

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Gyroscope

A sensor that measures the device's rotation and orientation in 3D space.

Context: Enables features like augmented reality and motion controls.

Example: A gaming app uses the gyroscope to control character movement by tilting the device.

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Geolocation

The identification of the real-world geographic location of an object, such as a mobile device. Geolocation is used in ecommerce apps for a variety of purposes, such as showing nearby stores, calculating shipping costs, and personalizing content.

Context: Enables location-based features and personalization.

Example: An ecommerce app uses geolocation to show the user a list of nearby stores where they can pick up their order.

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Google Play Store

The official app store for Android devices. Developers can submit their apps to the Google Play Store to make them available to billions of users around the world.

Context: The primary distribution channel for Android apps.

Example: A developer submits their new ecommerce app to the Google Play Store for review and publication.

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H

Handoff

An Apple feature that allows users to start a task on one device and continue it on another.

Context: Enables seamless experiences across Apple devices.

Example: A user starts composing an email on their iPhone and continues on their Mac using Handoff.

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Haptic Feedback

Tactile feedback provided through device vibrations to enhance user interactions.

Context: Improves user experience by providing physical feedback for actions.

Example: An app provides haptic feedback when a user successfully completes a purchase.

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Hermes

A JavaScript engine optimized for React Native that improves app startup time and reduces memory usage.

Context: Significantly improves React Native app performance.

Example: A React Native app enables Hermes to reduce startup time by 50%.

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Hot Reloading

A feature of some development frameworks, like React Native and Flutter, that allows developers to see the changes they make to the code reflected in the app almost instantly, without having to restart the app.

Context: A powerful feature that can significantly speed up the development process.

Example: A developer changes the color of a button in their React Native code and sees the change immediately in the running app on their emulator or device.

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I

Image Caching

Storing downloaded images locally to avoid re-downloading and improve performance.

Context: Essential for apps that display many images.

Example: An app caches product images so they load instantly when users revisit product pages.

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IndexedDB

A low-level API for client-side storage of structured data in web browsers, used in PWAs.

Context: Enables PWAs to store large amounts of data offline.

Example: A PWA uses IndexedDB to store product catalog data for offline browsing.

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Instruments

Apple's profiling and analysis tool for iOS and macOS apps, used to identify performance issues.

Context: Essential for optimizing iOS app performance.

Example: A developer uses Instruments to identify memory leaks and optimize their iOS app.

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Intent

An Android messaging object used to request an action from another app component.

Context: Fundamental to Android's component communication system.

Example: An app uses an intent to open the camera app and capture a photo.

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In-App Message

A notification that is displayed to a user while they are actively using an app. In-app messages are used to provide contextual information, promote features, or encourage users to take a specific action.

Context: A less intrusive alternative to push notifications for communicating with users who are already engaged with the app.

Example: An ecommerce app displays an in-app message to a user when they add an item to their cart, suggesting other products they might be interested in.

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In-App Purchase (IAP)

A purchase made from within a mobile app. In ecommerce, IAP is typically used for selling digital goods or subscriptions, as Apple and Google take a percentage of the revenue from IAPs.

Context: A monetization strategy for mobile apps.

Example: An ecommerce app that sells digital fashion magazines uses IAP to allow users to purchase a monthly subscription.

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Ionic

An open-source UI toolkit for building high-quality, cross-platform apps for native iOS, Android, and the web—all from a single codebase. Ionic is known for its large library of pre-built UI components and its focus on performance.

Context: A popular framework for building hybrid apps, often used in conjunction with Capacitor or Cordova.

Example: A developer uses Ionic to quickly build a beautiful and performant ecommerce app for both iOS and Android.

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iOS

The mobile operating system created and developed by Apple Inc. exclusively for its hardware. It is the operating system that powers many of the company's mobile devices, including the iPhone and iPod Touch.

Context: One of the two major mobile platforms that developers target when building mobile apps.

Example: A developer builds a native iOS app for their ecommerce store using Swift and Xcode.

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J

Jailbreak Detection

Code that detects if an iOS device has been jailbroken, which can pose security risks.

Context: Important for apps handling sensitive data.

Example: A banking app detects jailbroken devices and displays a security warning.

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Jank

Visual stuttering or dropped frames in the UI, typically caused by performance issues.

Context: Degrades user experience and should be minimized.

Example: A developer fixes jank during scrolling by optimizing image rendering.

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Jetpack

A suite of Android libraries and tools that help developers follow best practices and write better code.

Context: Simplifies common Android development tasks.

Example: A developer uses Jetpack Compose to build modern Android UIs declaratively.

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JSI (JavaScript Interface)

React Native's new JavaScript interface that enables direct communication between JavaScript and native code.

Context: Part of React Native's new architecture for better performance.

Example: JSI allows React Native apps to call native functions synchronously without the bridge overhead.

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Just-in-Time (JIT) Compilation

A compilation strategy where code is compiled to machine code during execution rather than beforehand.

Context: Used by JavaScript engines for dynamic optimization.

Example: React Native uses JIT compilation in development mode for faster iteration.

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K

Keychain

Apple's secure storage system for sensitive data like passwords and tokens on iOS.

Context: The recommended way to store sensitive data on iOS.

Example: An app stores user authentication tokens in the Keychain for secure persistence.

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Keystore

Android's secure storage system for cryptographic keys and sensitive data.

Context: Essential for secure data storage on Android.

Example: An Android app stores API keys in the Keystore to prevent unauthorized access.

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Kotlin Multiplatform Mobile (KMM)

A technology that allows sharing code between iOS and Android apps while keeping native UIs.

Context: Enables code sharing for business logic while maintaining platform-specific UIs.

Example: A team uses KMM to share networking and data models between their iOS and Android apps.

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L

Local Notifications

Notifications scheduled by the app itself without requiring a server, displayed at specific times or locations.

Context: Useful for reminders and time-based alerts.

Example: A meditation app schedules local notifications to remind users to practice daily.

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Kotlin

A modern programming language that is fully interoperable with Java and is the preferred language for Android development.

Context: The official language for Android development, recommended by Google.

Example: A developer builds a native Android app for their ecommerce store using Kotlin and Android Studio.

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Lifecycle (App Lifecycle)

The sequence of states that a mobile app goes through from when it is launched to when it is terminated. Understanding the app lifecycle is important for managing resources and ensuring a good user experience.

Context: A fundamental concept in mobile app development.

Example: A developer uses the app lifecycle events to save the user’s shopping cart when the app is sent to the background, so that the user can resume their shopping later.

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Lighthouse

An open-source, automated tool for improving the quality of web pages. Lighthouse can be run against any web page, public or requiring authentication. It has audits for performance, accessibility, progressive web apps, SEO, and more.

Context: A valuable tool for testing and improving the quality of PWAs.

Example: A developer uses Lighthouse to audit their ecommerce PWA to identify performance bottlenecks and accessibility issues.

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Localization

The process of adapting an app to a specific language, region, and culture. This includes translating text, formatting dates and numbers, and using appropriate imagery.

Context: Essential for creating a good user experience for a global audience.

Example: An ecommerce app is localized for the Japanese market by translating all text into Japanese and displaying prices in Japanese yen.

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Location Services

Services provided by a mobile device's operating system that allow apps to access the device's location. Location services are used for a variety of purposes, such as showing nearby stores, providing directions, and personalizing content.

Context: Enables a wide range of location-based features in mobile apps.

Example: An ecommerce app uses location services to show the user a map of nearby stores where they can pick up their order.

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M

Material Design

Google's design system that provides guidelines and components for building Android apps.

Context: The standard design language for Android applications.

Example: A developer follows Material Design guidelines to create a consistent Android app experience.

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Memory Management

The practice of efficiently allocating and deallocating memory to prevent leaks and crashes.

Context: Critical for app stability and performance.

Example: A developer fixes memory leaks to prevent their app from crashing after extended use.

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Modal

A UI component that appears on top of the current screen and requires user interaction before returning to the main flow.

Context: Common pattern for forms, alerts, and focused tasks.

Example: An app displays a modal for users to confirm before deleting an item.

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Manifest (Web App Manifest)

A JSON file that provides information about a progressive web app (PWA), such as its name, icons, and start URL. The manifest is what allows a PWA to be installed on a device and appear to the user like a native app.

Context: A core component of a PWA.

Example: A developer creates a manifest.json file for their ecommerce PWA, specifying the app’s name, icons, and theme color.

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MDM (Mobile Device Management)

Software that allows IT administrators to remotely manage and secure mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. MDM is often used in enterprise environments to enforce security policies and deploy apps to employees’ devices.

Context: A tool for managing and securing mobile devices in a corporate environment.

Example: A company uses an MDM solution to deploy its internal ecommerce app to its employees’ devices.

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Mobile-First Design

A design philosophy that prioritizes designing for mobile devices before desktop. This ensures the mobile experience is optimized from the start.

Context: Critical for ecommerce apps where mobile traffic often exceeds desktop.

Example: An ecommerce company adopts a mobile-first design approach, ensuring their app provides an excellent experience on smartphones.

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Metro

The JavaScript bundler for React Native. Metro takes all of the JavaScript code and dependencies and bundles them into a single file that can be loaded by the app.

Context: A core part of the React Native development toolchain.

Example: When a developer runs their React Native app, Metro bundles all the JavaScript code and serves it to the app.

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N

NativeScript

A framework for building cross-platform mobile apps using JavaScript, TypeScript, or Angular.

Context: Provides direct access to native APIs from JavaScript.

Example: A developer uses NativeScript to build an app that runs on both iOS and Android with shared code.

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Native App

A mobile app that is built specifically for a particular mobile operating system (either iOS or Android) using the platform’s native programming language and tools. Native iOS apps are built using Swift or Objective-C and Xcode, while native Android apps are built using Kotlin or Java and Android Studio.

Context: Native apps generally offer the best performance and have full access to all of the device’s features.

Example: A developer builds a native iOS app for their ecommerce store to provide the best possible user experience for iPhone users.

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Native Bridge

See Bridge.

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Navigation

The system that allows users to move between different screens in an app. Navigation is a fundamental part of the user experience and should be intuitive and consistent.

Context: A key aspect of an app's design and architecture.

Example: An ecommerce app uses a tab bar at the bottom of the screen for its main navigation, allowing users to easily switch between the home screen, their cart, and their account.

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Native Module

Custom native code (written in Swift/Objective-C for iOS or Kotlin/Java for Android) that can be called from JavaScript in a React Native app.

Context: Allows React Native apps to access platform-specific features not available through standard APIs.

Example: A developer creates a native module to integrate a custom payment SDK into their React Native ecommerce app.

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NFC (Near Field Communication)

A set of communication protocols that enable two electronic devices to establish communication by bringing them within close proximity. Used for contactless payments and data transfer.

Context: Enables features like mobile payments and quick pairing with other devices.

Example: An ecommerce app supports NFC payments, allowing users to pay by tapping their phone at a point-of-sale terminal.

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NPM (Node Package Manager)

The default package manager for Node.js. NPM is used to install and manage the dependencies for a JavaScript project.

Context: An essential tool for any JavaScript developer.

Example: A developer uses NPM to install the React Native framework and other libraries needed for their ecommerce app.

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O

On-Demand Resources

An iOS feature that allows apps to download additional content as needed rather than including it in the initial download.

Context: Reduces initial app size by loading resources when needed.

Example: A gaming app uses on-demand resources to download level packs only when players reach them.

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Objective-C

A general-purpose, object-oriented programming language that was the main programming language used by Apple for the OS X and iOS operating systems and their respective application programming interfaces (APIs) before the introduction of Swift.

Context: A legacy programming language for iOS development that is still used in some older apps.

Example: A developer maintains an older ecommerce app that was written in Objective-C.

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OneSignal

A popular service for sending push notifications, in-app messages, and emails. OneSignal provides a simple API and a user-friendly dashboard for managing marketing campaigns.

Context: A popular choice for mobile app developers and marketers.

Example: An ecommerce app uses OneSignal to send push notifications to users who have abandoned their shopping carts.

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Offline Mode

A feature that allows an app to function without an internet connection by storing data locally on the device.

Context: Important for providing a good user experience in areas with poor connectivity.

Example: An ecommerce app allows users to browse previously viewed products while offline.

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OTA (Over-the-Air) Update

A way of delivering updates to a mobile app without requiring the user to download a new version from the app store. OTA updates are used to deliver small bug fixes and feature updates quickly.

Context: A powerful feature of some hybrid app frameworks like React Native (using services like CodePush).

Example: A developer uses an OTA update to fix a critical bug in their ecommerce app without having to wait for the app store review process.

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P

Photo Library

Platform APIs that provide access to the device's photo and video library.

Context: Enables apps to let users select and upload photos.

Example: A social app uses the Photo Library API to let users select profile pictures.

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ProGuard/R8

Code shrinking and obfuscation tools for Android that reduce app size and make reverse engineering harder.

Context: Standard practice for Android release builds.

Example: A developer uses R8 to reduce their Android app size by 30% and obfuscate the code.

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Provisioning Profile

An iOS file that links signing certificates, devices, and app IDs to enable app installation and distribution.

Context: Required for installing iOS apps on devices and distributing via the App Store.

Example: A developer creates a provisioning profile to test their app on physical iOS devices.

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Permissions

In mobile operating systems, permissions are used to control an app’s access to sensitive user data and device features, such as the camera, location, and contacts.

Context: A key security and privacy feature of mobile operating systems.

Example: An ecommerce app prompts the user for permission to access their location so that it can show them nearby stores.

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Platform

In the context of mobile development, a platform is a mobile operating system, such as iOS or Android.

Context: The foundation on which mobile apps are built.

Example: A developer builds a cross-platform app that can run on both the iOS and Android platforms.

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Progressive Web App (PWA)

A type of application software delivered through the web, built using common web technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. PWAs are intended to work on any platform that uses a standards-compliant browser, including both desktop and mobile devices.

Context: A modern approach to building web applications that can provide a user experience that is similar to a native app.

Example: A business builds a PWA for its ecommerce store, which allows users to “install” the app on their home screen and receive push notifications, just like a native app.

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Plugin

A software component that adds specific capabilities to a larger software application. In hybrid app development, plugins provide access to native device features.

Context: Essential for hybrid apps to access device features like camera, GPS, and contacts.

Example: A Capacitor app uses a camera plugin to allow users to take photos of products.

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Push Notification

A message that is "pushed" from a server to a mobile device. Push notifications are used to deliver timely and relevant information to users, even when the app is not running.

Context: A powerful tool for re-engaging users and driving them back to the app.

Example: An ecommerce app sends a push notification to a user to let them know that their order has shipped.

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Push Token

A unique identifier assigned to a device by the push notification service (APNs or FCM). The push token is used to send notifications to a specific device.

Context: Required for sending targeted push notifications to individual users.

Example: When a user installs an ecommerce app, the app registers with the push notification service and receives a push token, which is sent to the app's server.

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Q

R

Realm

A mobile database alternative to SQLite, designed for mobile apps with an object-oriented API.

Context: Popular for its performance and ease of use.

Example: A React Native app uses Realm to store and sync data across devices.

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Root Detection

Code that detects if an Android device has been rooted, which can pose security risks.

Context: Important for apps handling sensitive data.

Example: A payment app detects rooted devices and restricts certain features for security.

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React Native

An open-source mobile application framework created by Facebook. It is used to develop applications for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, tvOS, Web, Windows, and UWP by enabling developers to use React along with native platform capabilities.

Context: A popular choice for cross-platform development that allows developers to write most of their code in JavaScript and share it across both iOS and Android.

Example: A startup builds its ecommerce app with React Native to save time and money compared to building separate native apps for each platform.

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Redux

A predictable state container for JavaScript apps. Redux is often used with React to manage the state of an application in a more organized and predictable way.

Context: A popular library for state management in large and complex React and React Native applications.

Example: An ecommerce app uses Redux to manage the state of the shopping cart, which allows any component in the app to access the cart’s contents and be updated when the cart changes.

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Routing

The process of navigating between different screens or pages in an app.

Context: A fundamental aspect of an app's architecture.

Example: A developer uses a routing library like React Navigation to manage the navigation between the different screens of their React Native app.

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S

Safe Area

The portion of the screen that is guaranteed to be visible and not obscured by device notches, rounded corners, or system UI.

Context: Essential for proper layout on modern devices with notches.

Example: A developer uses safe area insets to ensure content isn't hidden behind the iPhone notch.

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Share Extension

An iOS app extension that allows users to share content from your app to other apps.

Context: Enables seamless content sharing between apps.

Example: A photo app provides a share extension so users can share photos to social media apps.

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SharedPreferences

Android's simple key-value storage system for saving primitive data types.

Context: Used for storing simple app settings and preferences.

Example: An Android app uses SharedPreferences to remember user theme preferences.

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Sideloading

Installing apps on a device without using the official app store.

Context: Common for testing and enterprise distribution.

Example: A developer sideloads a debug build onto their Android device for testing.

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SQLite

A lightweight relational database engine commonly used in mobile apps for local data storage.

Context: The standard embedded database for mobile applications.

Example: An app uses SQLite to store user data and app state locally.

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Stack Navigator

A navigation pattern that manages screens in a stack, allowing users to push and pop screens.

Context: The most common navigation pattern in mobile apps.

Example: A React Native app uses Stack Navigator to manage navigation between product list and detail screens.

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Swift Package Manager (SPM)

Apple's official dependency manager for Swift projects.

Context: Modern alternative to CocoaPods for iOS development.

Example: A developer uses SPM to add and manage dependencies in their iOS app.

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SDK (Software Development Kit)

A collection of software development tools in one installable package. SDKs are used to develop applications for a specific platform or to integrate with a specific service.

Context: An essential tool for mobile app developers.

Example: A developer uses the Android SDK to build a native Android app, and the Shopify Mobile Buy SDK to integrate their app with the Shopify platform.

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Service Worker

A script that your browser runs in the background, separate from a web page, opening the door to features that don’t need a web page or user interaction. Service workers are a core component of progressive web apps (PWAs) and are used to enable features like offline support and push notifications.

Context: A key technology for building modern, reliable web applications.

Example: An ecommerce PWA uses a service worker to cache its assets so that the app can be used even when the user is offline.

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Skeleton Screen

A version of the UI that is shown while content is loading. It uses placeholder elements that mimic the layout of the actual content.

Context: Improves perceived performance by giving users immediate visual feedback.

Example: An ecommerce app displays skeleton screens while product listings are loading from the server.

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Simulator

A software application that runs on a computer and simulates the software environment of a mobile device. Simulators are used by developers to test their apps without needing a physical device.

Context: An essential tool for mobile app development and testing.

Example: A developer uses the iOS Simulator in Xcode to test their app on a simulated iPhone.

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Splash Screen

The first screen that a user sees when they launch an app. The splash screen is typically displayed for a few seconds while the app is loading.

Context: An opportunity to make a good first impression and reinforce the app’s branding.

Example: An ecommerce app displays its logo on the splash screen while the app is loading.

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State

The data that an application needs to keep track of at any given time. In a mobile app, the state can include things like the contents of the shopping cart, the user’s login status, and the current screen that is being displayed.

Context: A fundamental concept in application development.

Example: A developer uses a state management library like Redux to manage the state of their ecommerce app.

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StoreKit

A framework from Apple that allows developers to sell digital goods and services from within their iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS apps.

Context: The framework that powers in-app purchases on Apple’s platforms.

Example: An ecommerce app that sells digital magazines uses StoreKit to allow users to purchase a monthly subscription.

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Swift

A general-purpose, multi-paradigm, compiled programming language developed by Apple Inc. for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and Linux.

Context: The primary programming language for iOS development.

Example: A developer builds a native iOS app for their ecommerce store using Swift and Xcode.

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SwiftUI

An innovative, exceptionally simple way to build user interfaces across all Apple platforms with the power of Swift.

Context: A modern, declarative UI framework for building apps for Apple's platforms.

Example: A developer uses SwiftUI to build the user interface for their new ecommerce app for iOS.

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T

Tab Navigator

A navigation pattern using tabs (typically at the bottom) to switch between different sections of an app.

Context: One of the most common mobile navigation patterns.

Example: An app uses a tab navigator with tabs for Home, Search, and Profile.

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Touch ID

Apple's fingerprint recognition system for biometric authentication on iOS devices.

Context: Provides secure and convenient authentication on older iPhones and iPads.

Example: An app uses Touch ID to authenticate users before showing sensitive information.

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Tree Shaking

A dead code elimination technique that removes unused code from the final bundle.

Context: Reduces app size by excluding unused dependencies.

Example: A React Native app uses tree shaking to remove unused library code from the production build.

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Turbo Modules

React Native's new native module system that provides better performance and type safety.

Context: Part of React Native's new architecture.

Example: A developer migrates their native modules to Turbo Modules for better performance.

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Tab Bar

A navigation element typically displayed at the bottom of a mobile app screen that allows users to switch between different sections of the app.

Context: A common navigation pattern in mobile apps.

Example: An ecommerce app uses a tab bar with icons for Home, Search, Cart, and Profile.

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TestFlight

Apple's beta testing service that allows developers to distribute pre-release versions of their iOS apps to testers.

Context: The standard way to distribute iOS apps for testing before public release.

Example: A developer uses TestFlight to distribute a beta version of their ecommerce app to a group of testers for feedback.

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U

UI Testing

Automated testing that simulates user interactions with the app's user interface.

Context: Ensures UI behaves correctly across different scenarios.

Example: A team writes UI tests to verify that the login flow works correctly.

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UIKit

Apple's original framework for building user interfaces on iOS, before SwiftUI.

Context: Still widely used for iOS development alongside SwiftUI.

Example: A developer builds an iOS app using UIKit for broader iOS version compatibility.

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UserDefaults

iOS's simple key-value storage system for saving user preferences and small amounts of data.

Context: Used for storing simple app settings.

Example: An iOS app uses UserDefaults to remember whether the user prefers dark mode.

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Upload Key

A cryptographic key used to sign Android app bundles before uploading them to Google Play. Different from the app signing key.

Context: Part of Android's app signing process for secure distribution.

Example: A developer generates an upload key to sign their ecommerce app before submitting it to the Play Store.

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Universal Links (iOS) / App Links (Android)

A type of deep link that works seamlessly across platforms, opening content in the app if installed, or in the web browser if not.

Context: Provides a better user experience than traditional deep links.

Example: An ecommerce app uses universal links so that when a user clicks a product link in an email, it opens directly in the app if installed.

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V

W

Watchman

A file watching service developed by Facebook, used by React Native to watch for file changes during development.

Context: Enables fast refresh and hot reloading in React Native.

Example: React Native uses Watchman to detect code changes and trigger rebuilds.

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WidgetKit

Apple's framework for creating home screen widgets on iOS.

Context: Allows apps to display information on the home screen.

Example: A weather app uses WidgetKit to show current conditions on the home screen.

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WKWebView

Apple's modern webview component for displaying web content in iOS apps.

Context: Replaced the older UIWebView with better performance and features.

Example: A hybrid iOS app uses WKWebView to display web content with full JavaScript support.

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Web App

See Progressive Web App (PWA).

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Webview

A component in a mobile app that displays web content. A webview is essentially a browser that is embedded in an app.

Context: The core component of a hybrid app.

Example: A hybrid ecommerce app uses a webview to display the product catalog, which is a mobile-optimized version of the company’s website.

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Widget

A small, single-purpose application that can be embedded into a home screen, another app, or a website.

Context: A way to provide users with quick access to information or functionality from an app without having to open the app itself.

Example: An ecommerce app provides a widget that users can add to their home screen to track the status of their orders.

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Wrapper

In hybrid app development, a wrapper is the native container that surrounds web content, allowing it to function as a native app.

Context: The core concept behind hybrid apps.

Example: A developer uses Capacitor as a wrapper to turn their web-based ecommerce site into a mobile app.

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X

Xamarin

Microsoft's cross-platform framework for building iOS and Android apps using C# and .NET.

Context: Popular in enterprise environments using Microsoft technologies.

Example: A .NET development team uses Xamarin to build mobile apps with their existing C# skills.

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XCTest

Apple's testing framework for writing unit and UI tests for iOS apps.

Context: The standard testing framework for iOS development.

Example: A developer writes XCTests to verify their iOS app's business logic.

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Xcode

Apple’s integrated development environment (IDE) for macOS, used to develop software for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and tvOS.

Context: The primary tool for developers building native iOS apps.

Example: A developer uses Xcode to build and debug a native iOS app for their ecommerce store.

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Y

Z