What is an iOS Developer? 

In today’s digital era, where smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, the demand for skilled professionals who can develop innovative and user-friendly mobile applications is on the rise. Among these professionals, iOS developers hold a prominent position. With their expertise in programming languages like Swift and Objective-C, they possess the ability to bring ideas to life, design captivating user interfaces and ensure seamless functionality on iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices. 

What Does an iOS Developer Do? 

An iOS developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining mobile applications exclusively for Apple’s iOS platform. Their primary focus is on creating apps that run smoothly on iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices. 

The role of an iOS developer involves a range of tasks, including  

App Development

iOS developers use programming languages like Swift and Objective-C to write code and build functional and interactive applications. They work closely with designers to ensure the app’s user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) are optimised for iOS devices. 

Code Debugging and Testing

iOS developers conduct rigorous testing and debugging to identify and resolve any issues or bugs in the app’s functionality, ensuring a smooth and error-free user experience.

Version Updates 

As Apple releases new versions of iOS, developers must adapt their applications to work seamlessly with the latest features and updates. This involves updating the code, testing compatibility and ensuring the app’s performance remains consistent across different iOS versions. 

Collaboration

iOS developers often collaborate with cross-functional teams, including designers, project managers and quality assurance testers, to ensure the app meets the desired specifications and requirements. 

Why Become an iOS Developer

Becoming an iOS developer can be an exciting and rewarding career choice for several reasons:

Thriving Market

Apple’s iOS platform has a large and dedicated user base. With millions of iPhone and iPad users worldwide, there is a constant demand for innovative and high-quality iOS applications. 

This presents abundant opportunities for iOS developers to create and market their apps to a wide audience. 

Lucrative Job Prospects

The demand for skilled iOS developers often exceeds the supply, making it a highly sought-after profession. As a result, iOS developers enjoy competitive salaries, attractive job offers, and potential career growth opportunities. 

Creativity and Innovation

iOS development allows developers to unleash their creativity and bring their ideas to life. Developing iOS applications involves designing captivating user interfaces implementing unique features, and providing exceptional user experiences.  

This creative aspect of iOS development can be immensely fulfilling for those passionate about crafting intuitive and visually appealing apps. 

Continuous Learning and Growth

The field of iOS development is constantly evolving, with new versions of iOS, technological advancements, and emerging trends. This dynamic environment gives developers endless opportunities to learn and grow their skills, keeping their work engaging and intellectually stimulating. 

How to Become an iOS Developer

To become an iOS developer:

• Learn Swift, Apple’s programming language for iOS development.
• Understand iOS development tools like Xcode and Interface Builder.
• Practise building simple apps to gain hands-on experience.
• Explore iOS frameworks like Core Data and Core Animation.
• Join developer communities, attend meetups, and collaborate on projects.
• Study Apple’s guidelines and documentation for app development.
• Build a portfolio to showcase your iOS projects.
• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in iOS development.
• Seek internships or entry-level positions to gain professional experience.
• Network with professionals in the field to access opportunities and resources. Embrace the learning process and continuously improve your skills. 

iOS Developer Salaries

iOS developer salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, company size, and skill level. In general, iOS developers tend to earn competitive salaries due to the demand for their expertise. 

Here’s a look at average salaries and the information sources in Austria, Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, the UK, and Ireland. (Figures are as presented at the time of writing).

If you want to see salaries for other software development roles, download our comprehensive salary guide here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, iOS developers are crucial in creating innovative and user-friendly mobile applications for Apple’s iOS platform. 

With competitive salaries, abundant job opportunities and the ability to make a significant impact in the digital world, pursuing a career as an iOS developer can be rewarding for those passionate about mobile app development. 

App development languages 

Check out this blog if you want to read about other app development languages. Alternatively, if you’re new to code, then try our free 5 Day Coding Challenge, where you can learn the basics of HTML, CSS and JavaScript for free. Register now through the form below.