Mobile app development has always taken the same road for years. However, other than the typical monolithic architecture, mobile app developers can benefit from the new advancement in technology- microservices for writing and shipping codes.

The popularity of microservices in today’s mobile app development cannot be underestimated. This platform recorded a staggering 69% of clients either with new or existing apps, as noted by an analysis by Red Hat. The corporate world has not been left behind in embracing the benefits of microservices architecture. According to Canada, about 63% of corporate organizations are already on the bandwagon.

Difference between monolithic and microservices architecture

The concept of creating separate components of a mobile application in mobile app development technology is referred to as microservices architecture. Discrete parts are put together to obtain the same result. The individual components are commissioned separately, each with a single function to run.

The implementation of lightweight APIs helps distinct parts to work together as a team. Microservices architecture is particularly useful for mega mobile app development projects that require a great deal of work. The advantage is that the components are not interdependent; hence changing one does not affect the functionality of the others.

On the other hand, monolithic architecture is different altogether. This is the traditional architecture in which all parts of the mobile app are interconnected. Whenever one of the components malfunctions, others are not affected, which means the whole app goes down.

The architecture is designed with three parts, including the database, user interface, and the app server. The three communicate via a single code, and in case of a problem, the whole set up has to be changed. This is perhaps the reason microservices architecture has gained unprecedented acceptance in the world today.

How can you use microservices architecture?

There are several ways you can make use of microservices architecture to take your mobile app development skill to the next level.

Here are but a few instances when you can use this platform.

• Developing a new mobile app from scratch
• Improving the functionality of an existing app
• Refactoring a mobile app

Benefits of microservices architecture in mobile app development

One of the most impressive aspects of microservices architecture is the ease in testing and maintenance of the app. This is mainly because they are made separately then combined with working together. This is especially beneficial for corporate organizations to take advantage of the convenience and increase productivity.

Here are some of the benefits that have seen microservices architecture rise to mobile app development.

• Versatility

Microservices architecture is very versatile since the components making up the whole app function independently. This means that system updates can be done on individual parts. Besides, failure of one piece does not affect the rest, and it can be replaced quickly, thereby reducing time wastage.

• Increased productivity

Mobile app development involves multiple complex tasks. However, if you are using microservices architecture to develop your app, the lessons can be shared out among the team. Each team embarks on developing a specific module, and this division of labor increases the level of productivity. Moreover, it becomes easier when resolving issues that may arise or further development after gaining traction. Combining several components increases the room for creativity in mobile app development technologies.

• Highly scalable

When compared to traditional methods, it’s more comfortable and affordable to scale an app with microservices architecture. The myriad of small discrete modules that function independently make it easy to add other functions and features to the existing setup. The APIs involved in the overall connectivity is defined to achieve independent scalability. This is the only platform that can allow horizontal and vertical scaling of apps today.

• Faster performance

Microservices architecture came to speed up the pace of mobile app development. This is mainly attributed to their independent performance hence faster delivery of results. With this platform, you can make additions, modifications, and even delete certain features without interfering with the app codebase.

The advantage is that you can change a distinct part, carry out testing and deployment while the app is still functioning. Unlike other platforms, this one does not experience downtimes even when alterations have to be made.

• Adaptability

Due to the lack of interdependence in the functioning of the components of mobile apps developed with a microservices architecture, they are highly adaptable. Each module can be designed to serve only one function; hence can make use of the different programming languages.

And despite the differences in each individual set of commands, they correctly work together without any hiccups. This is the height mobile app development has soared, and nothing seems the limit anymore.

• Minimal maintenance

As you know, it’s always easier to manage several separate tasks individually than handling a whole chunk at once. That is the case with microservices architecture. Whenever a change has to be made, it usually involves a single module and is easier to deal with. This is the easiest way you can eradicate problems while the whole app is still up and running.

• Dynamic technology

With the world changing so fast, especially in technology, new devices in the mobile app development industry pop up with the day. The only platform that can offer a chance for upgrading your mobile app to match the current trend is the microservices architecture.

The downside of microservices architecture

Although having the components of a mobile app functioning separately has its benefits, there are a few downsides to this option. Imagine what would happen if a team developing an app using different coding languages, separate libraries, and frameworks got mixed up.

There is also the risk of security as well as enormous memory demands. Sometimes, network issues may arise, though not very common. Despite the few disadvantages, microservices architecture has a special place in mobile app development.

What you need to know before choosing microservices architecture

There are a few things you need to know before you begin development work using a microservices architecture. It would be best if you considered the following before making up your mind.

• How much independence does your app need?

Knowing how much independence you want your app to have helps you decide which level of microservices architecture to take. The extreme level allows the app to have its user interface and database such that functions remain independent of each other. The semi enables a single database to connect with particular components while they directly connect partially. In case you opt for the average level, the branch functions are connected while the main one is not merged.

• How do you organize the code?

There are several ways you can keep your code organized. Nevertheless, mono repo, a single repository, is the best you can create to cater for everything. This includes the folders required for each module in the mobile app.

• Which technology is compatible with microservices architecture?

You should ensure you carefully choose the tools you use to develop the app. You should check that the technology is not too difficult to operate. Additionally, it should also ensure continuity of service delivery while allowing the mobile app development team to work efficiently.

Keeping up with matters arising after production

There are some things you can do to help keep up with post-production needs. Here are but a few of them.

• Seek the support of different platforms
• Ensure the codes can be reused
• Regularly carry out code maintenance
• Keep managing user sessions
• Integrate your app with native codes

Bottom line

Microservices architecture has received unprecedented popularity in mobile app development. This masterpiece of technology is unstoppable due to its flexible and dynamic nature allowing mobile developers to stretch their programming skills to heights hitherto unknown before. Large corporate organizations have appreciated the great worth and undeniable presence of this platform. With the pace in mobile app development, only a platform such as the microservices architecture can save the day.