iOS vs Android App Development: Uncovering Key Differences
Daria Lymanska
CEO & Founder
September 18, 2024
2
min read
Specifically, according to the Exploding Topics resource, in 2024, Android has a 70.93% global market share while iOS only has about 25% of it. However, both platforms are undoubtedly popular, and each of them, with the right approach to development and promotion, can provide product owners with a stable income. Below, we will reveal the differences and similarities between iOS and Android development, paying special attention to security and customization options.
Android vs. iOS App Development: Key Differences
Let's first look at the fundamental differences in Android and iOS development.
Programming languages
When it comes to native development, the most popular Android development language can be considered Java or Kotlin (they are both officially supported by Android’s original IDE, but the last one is preferable for new projects). As for native development for iOS, here, developers will need knowledge of Objective-C or Swift (generally speaking, this is the best option for new projects, while Objective-C is mainly used to support existing solutions that were originally written in this language).
Development environment
As the primary development environment for the Android platform, Android developers use the open-source Android Studio IDE, although in some cases their choice may also fall on Visual Studio, Eclipse, and some other development environments. At the same time, iOS developers usually resort to the help of Xcode with the integrated iOS SDK.
Differences in design
iOS development requires following the platform’s own principles for user interface design listed in the Human Interface Design Guidelines (the main aspects of which are color variety without shadows (Flat Design Depth), minimalism (Clarity), and content-first approach (Deference)). In the case of Android development, these are the recommendations for recreating Material Design (the main aspects of which are expressing the hierarchy of elements through their size, colors, and shadows (Metaphoric Nature), using bold typography to highlight important elements (Bold Graphical Design), visualizing reactions to user actions (Meaningful Animation), as well as adapting the design to devices of different form factors (Adaptive Design)). Also note that Android allows the development of applications for operation in Kiosk Mode—this will be useful for businesses presenting their services and/or products through software installed on corporate Android-based devices.
Hourly rates
According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of an Android developer in the US ranges from $91K to $135K, while for an iOS developer this range is from $101K to $174K. From this, we can conclude that, on average, the iOS app development cost (if you stick to the hourly rate for specialists) will be somewhat higher compared to the Android app development cost, all other things being equal (in particular, the same number of supported device formats and OS versions).
Complexity of development
It is worth noting that native Android development tools and iOS mobile app development tools are quite easy to deal with and, in general, have a low entry threshold. That is why the complexity of implementing software for a particular platform should be considered primarily from the point of view of ensuring compatibility. The fact is that if you are planning Android development to cover as many user devices with different form factors as possible, your team will have to spend a lot of effort and time. Also, there is the need to provide compatibility with earlier versions of Android and, accordingly, adapt the software for devices that support them. Therefore, the development process for Android can be much longer than in the case of iOS, a platform that is characterized by a relatively small number of compatible user devices. On the other hand, for iOS development, the entire team must be equipped with macOS-based devices — only then will they be able to build the software and successfully test it in an emulator.
iOS vs. Android: Security and Privacy
The main difference between iOS and Android in terms of security lies in the fact that iOS security is more focused on providing strong software protection (which is facilitated by its closed nature and limited number of supported devices), while Android focuses on a combination of software and hardware protection (due to its initial open source nature, which can still be violated by individual vendors creating their own Android-based OSes, as well the variety of supported user devices). In the end, it is impossible to say that one of these operating systems is more secure or, on the contrary, more vulnerable, since by following the standards and generally accepted rules of secure development, you will be able to achieve optimal compliance for your software as well.
Which Platform Has a Bigger Market Share?
At the very beginning of this article, we indicated that Android is the undisputed leader in the mobile software market, with almost 71% market share. However, it is worth noting that the ratio of market shares between platforms may vary depending on the business niche for which the application is created. Moreover, there is rather old research that owners of iOS devices are more willing to download paid applications, while owners of Android devices prefer free software. As a result, this factor can determine your monetization opportunities for your app, too.
Which Platform Has More Customization Options?
In terms of customization options, Android gives developers more flexibility due to the open nature of the platform. Thus, they get more space for creativity, which allows them to implement non-trivial designs and functionality. In turn, the iOS platform is a closed ecosystem with its own strict compliance rules. This concept is aimed at maintaining uniformity of user interfaces, so it will not be possible to create something too non-standard on its basis.
Android vs. iOS App Development: Which One to Choose
Ultimately, we cannot say that development for any one of the platforms, be it iOS or Android, is more profitable. Everything depends on the niche for which the software solution is being implemented, its localization, and many other factors that determine the size of the target audience.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of app store fees for paid software and software with in-app purchases. In particular, iOS paid apps, in-app purchases of digital goods or services, and/or linking out to purchase digital goods and services on your website are subject to a 17% fee (or 10% If you're enrolled in the App Store Small Business Program/the Apple Video Partner Program/News Partner Program or renew a qualifying auto-renewal subscription beyond one year); also, if you use App Store payment processing and related commerce services for in-app purchases, you will be charged a 3% fee. As for Google Play, here, the fee is 15% on the first $1 million in annual revenue (or 30% on annual revenue exceeding $1 million), 15% on products with an auto-renewing subscription (regardless of annual revenue size), and 15% or less for developers who qualify for the Play Media Experience Program.
By the way, if you find that the ratio of potential users for each platform is approximately 1:1, you can consider the cross-platform app development option, which involves creating a single code base for iOS and Android platforms. In this case, you can save about 30% of the budget compared to developing two native applications, and also bring the launch date of your mobile solution closer. The only thing is that, like any other type of software development, this one also has some restrictions.
Regardless of whether you are considering cross-platform or native mobile app development, you can always choose us as a reliable service provider of custom mobile solutions. We will implement your business idea with the minimum possible budget without compromising its quality and select the best approaches and tech stack to ensure its competitiveness and profitability over the long term.
Which programming languages are used for iOS and Android app development?
Android apps are primarily developed using Java or Kotlin, while iOS apps are built with Swift or Objective-C. Swift is the preferred language for new iOS projects, while Kotlin is favored for Android.
What are the main differences in the design approach for iOS and Android apps?
iOS apps follow the Human Interface Design Guidelines, focusing on minimalism and clarity. Android apps use Material Design principles, emphasizing bold typography, meaningful animations, and adaptive design for different devices.
What development environments do iOS and Android developers use?
Android developers typically use Android Studio, while iOS developers work in Xcode. Both environments offer a range of tools to help create and test apps, but Xcode is exclusive to macOS devices.
Is Android or iOS development easier for beginners?
Both platforms offer easy-to-use development tools, but Android development may be more time-consuming due to the variety of devices and versions to support. iOS has fewer device formats, making it somewhat simpler in that regard.
Since 41% of Americans own wearable devices (smartwatches or fitness trackers), fitness isn't just a lifestyle—it's a trillion-dollar digital gold rush. From tracking 10,000 steps to crushing personalized HIIT workouts, fitness apps are the new personal trainers.
In this article, we will explore the meaning of a fitness tracker app, its key features, market overview, trends, deployment steps, and monetization tips.
Fitness Software Development Overview
The fitness app market reached $9.25 billion in 2023 alone. COVID-19 forced a shift from gyms to virtual training, and the numbers prove it: downloads soared, and daily active users hit new highs.
The fitness apps market is surging at 14.08% annually, reshaping how people stay active. Moreover, with 94% of Gen Z on board with the rise of gadget usage, ready to embrace fitness apps as their go-to wellness tool, the market growth won't stop here. By 2029, it's projected to add size at 13.2%, and the market is set to hit $10.06B.
It seems there's no turning back for digital fitness.
Understanding Fitness Tracker Apps
To understand what a fitness tracker app is, think of it as a personal digital assistant that logs physical activities and health metrics.
Fitness tracker apps use built-in or connected devices' sensors—such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, GPS, and heart rate monitors—to collect real-time data on movement, physiological changes, and sleep cycles.
If we look at how fitness tracker apps work, we will see that they visualize progress through graphs and charts—many sync with smartwatches or fitness bands to improve tracking accuracy.
Categories of Fitness Apps
Though by definition, it is clear that fitness apps monitor fitness data, they cover and support many other functions. Among them are wellness, nutrition, and mental well-being. Below, we'll break down six main categories.
Activity Tracking Apps
Activity tracking apps count each step taken. They are often paired with smartwatches or fitness bands to offer detailed activity achievements. Users can monitor their progress toward daily goals, like achieving 10,000 steps, using visual graphs and statistical data. Additionally, these apps show calories burned and may include sleep pattern analysis.
Examples: Fitbit, Google Fit, Strava.
Exercise and Training Apps
Exercise and training apps deliver structured programs for strength building, cardio improvement, and weight loss. They include video demonstrations and detailed instructions while tracking progress. Some apps extend their focus to running, cycling, and personalized nutrition plans.
Examples: Nike Training Club, MyFitnessPal.
Meal Planning and Nutrition Apps
Nutrition apps record calorie consumption and macronutrient breakdown. They include food logging, barcode scanning, and personalized meal plans. Users set clear dietary goals, whether for weight management, muscle development, or improved eating habits.
Examples: Lose It!, Yazio.
Mental Health and Mood Monitoring Apps
Mental health and mood monitoring applications help users keep track of their emotions and reduce stress. They entail mood diaries, guided meditations, breathing exercises, and CBT techniques.
Examples: Headspace, Calm.
Yoga and Meditation Apps
Yoga and meditation apps deliver structured yoga sessions and meditation guidance. They feature pose libraries and allow customized audio or video instruction sessions. Users benefit from increased flexibility, reduced stress, and clearer mental focus.
Examples: Down Dog, Insight Timer, and Asana Rebel.
Personal Coaching Apps
Personal coaching apps link users with professional coaches or trainers for customized fitness and health advice. The apps provide one-on-one support, personalized workout or nutrition plans, and scheduled accountability check-ins. This makes them suitable for people with specific objectives, like marathon training or long-term weight loss. Apps blend technology with human coaching to create a tailored experience and interactivity.
Examples: Noom, Trainerize.
Key Features of a Fitness Tracker App
A standout fitness tracker app grabs users with bold tools and electric energy. Here's what every app demands:
Activity and Step Tracking
Monitors daily motion and calorie consumption, presenting progress and history through simple visuals like graphs and charts.
Health Monitoring
Top apps track health data like heart rate and stress. They use sensors to give users accurate, ongoing updates and alerts.
Sleep Tracking and Analysis
A must-have for understanding sleep patterns—duration, quality, and stages (light, deep, REM). Top apps analyze this data to offer actionable tips for better rest, like adjusting bedtime routines.
Goal Setting and Progress Tracking
Allows users to set custom goals (e.g., 10,000 steps/day or 8 hours of sleep) and track progress over time, with visual milestones or rewards to enhance engagement.
Routes and Mapping
Uses GPS to map routes, track pace, and log elevation for outdoor enthusiasts like runners or cyclists. Plus, it allows them to review or share their paths.
Notifications
Timely reminders to move, drink water, or hit daily targets keep users on track. The app should balance usefulness with avoiding notification fatigue.
Integration with Wearable Devices
Ensures seamless syncing with smartwatches or fitness bands (e.g., Apple Watch, Fitbit), providing a unified experience across devices.
Social and Gamification Features
It adds leaderboards, challenges, and friend connections to make fitness fun and competitive, with gamification like earning badges—boosting long-term use.
Personalized Insights and AI-Based Recommendations
The AI analyzes workouts, sleep, nutrition, and progress trends to give personalized advice. For example, it might recommend a recovery day after heavy exercise or adjust goals based on well-being.
Tech Stack For Creating Fitness Apps
A strong front-end, back-end, database, APIs, and cloud hosting lay the groundwork for long-term success. Below we’ve outlined tips on the best tech stack:
Front-end
Craft a captivating user experience with the right front-end tools. Whether you're building for mobile or web, these technologies will help you create intuitive and visually stunning interfaces.
Swift: Unlock native iOS performance and seamless integration with Apple services.
Kotlin: Leverage robust Android development with Google's support.
Flutter: Build cross-platform apps with a single codebase for cost-effective development.
React Native: Rapidly develop cross-platform apps with a shared codebase.
For web apps:
React.js/Next.js: Deliver responsive and dynamic web experiences.
Vue.js: Enjoy a lightweight alternative with a more straightforward learning curve.
Back-end
A robust back-end powers your app's core functions. From data storage to real-time interactions, these technologies ensure your app runs smoothly and efficiently.
Node.js & Express.js: Perfect for real-time interactions like chat support and live sessions.
Django: Supports AI-driven recommendations for personalized insights.
Firebase: Cost-effective and ideal for startups, offering real-time data sync.
AWS Lambda: Go serverless to reduce maintenance costs.
Database
Choose the right database to store and manage user data effectively. Whether you need structured data or flexibility, these options have covered you.
PostgreSQL: Ideal for structured data like exercise logs and progress reports.
MongoDB: Flexible for apps with user-generated content.
Google Firestore: Real-time syncing for social and community features.
TimescaleDB: Optimized for analyzing long-term fitness trends.
APIs and Integrations
Integrate third-party services seamlessly with APIs. Enhance your app's functionality without extensive development.
HealthKit & Google Fit: Track fitness metrics like workouts and heart rate.
Strava API: Monitor running, cycling, and community challenges.
TensorFlow/OpenAI API: Unlock AI-driven insights for personalized workouts.
Google Speech-to-Text API: Enable voice logging for workouts and reminders.
Payment Gateways
Secure transactions are crucial for subscriptions and in-app purchases. These gateways protect financial information and ensure smooth processing.
Stripe, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay: Secure and reliable payment options.
Push Notifications
Keep users engaged with timely reminders, updates, and challenges. Push notifications boost interaction and retention.
OneSignal: Personalize notifications based on user activity.
Cloud and Hosting
Ensure your app scales efficiently with the right cloud hosting. From secure infrastructure to cost-effective solutions, these options support growing applications.
AWS: Secure and scalable cloud hosting.
Google Cloud Platform (GCP): Integrates analytics and AI capabilities.
Firebase Hosting: Fast deployment for small apps.
DigitalOcean: Cost-effective for early-stage apps.
Fitness Tracker App Development Process
Behind every great fitness tracking app is a rock-solid plan—here’s how to craft one that dominates the market.
Market Research and Target Audience Analysis
This initial phase will lay the groundwork for understanding how to develop a fitness app effectively. Explore the fitness tech industry, research competitors, and identify user habits to shape a product that resonates. Whether targeting everyday gym-goers or elite athletes, ensure the app meets real needs yet is unique.
Pro Tips: Use Google Trends and Statista for keyword insights, survey 200+ users with a 60/40 quantitative-qualitative split, and analyze at least 5 top competitor apps (e.g., Fitbit, Strava) on app stores, focusing on user reviews with 3-star ratings to spot unmet needs.
Defining Core Functionalities
Once research findings are clear, define core features like step tracking, calorie counting, and wearable integration while adding unique elements—personalized workouts or gamified challenges—to solve real user problems without clutter.
Pro Tips: Keep core features between 5 and 7. Focus 70% of fitness application development on essentials like accurate step tracking, and test early with 20-30 beta users.
Choosing the Right Technology Stack
Tech stack can make or break your app. Go native with Swift (iOS) or Kotlin (Android) for top-tier performance, or use Flutter or React Native for a cross-platform edge. Power the backend with Firebase for simplicity or AWS for enterprise muscle. Ensure seamless integration with Apple Health, Google Fit, and future expansions.
Pro Tips: Optimize for 80% of wearable users via Apple & Fitbit APIs, slash dev time by 40% using Flutter, and benchmark response times under 200ms for real-time accuracy.
UI/UX Design for an Engaging User Experience
Turn concepts into a sleek, intuitive app with fluid navigation, bold visuals, and a dashboard that highlights key fitness metrics. Additionally, fine-tune details with real user feedback for a flawless experience.
Pro Tips: Use a 60-30-10 color rule for balance, ensure 48x48px tap targets for accessibility, and run usability tests with 5-8 users to catch issues.
Development and Testing Phase
Here, development takes center stage. Engineers implement features, integrate APIs, and fine-tune performance while testers identify and resolve issues rigorously. The goal is a stable, high-performing app that remains reliable under real-world stressors like network fluctuations and peak traffic.
Pro Tips: Ensure crash-free sessions with Crashlytics, test on 10+ devices covering 90% of users.
Launch and Post-Launch Support
It’s release time! Publish on the Apple App Store and Google Play, track feedback, and squash bugs fast. Upgrade features and fine-tune performance to keep users engaged.
Pro Tips: Optimize App Store metadata with 3-5 high-traffic keywords, try to respond to all reviews within 24 hours for the first month, and schedule updates every 6-8 weeks based on usage data to maximize engagement.
Average Cost of Fitness App Development
A fitness app’s price tag correlates with its technical ambition. Entry-level builds (3–6 months) focus on MVP essentials—profile setup, exercise demos, goal tracking, and email/SMS alerts—costing $38K–50K. Mid-range projects (6–9 months) embed dynamic plans, device interoperability, leaderboards, and microtransactions, averaging $50K–75K.
High-complexity apps (9+ months) deploy AI posture correction, telehealth integrations, and enterprise dashboards, starting at $75K and rising. Freelancers may undercut agencies but risk fragmented deliverables. Invest in a vetted team with full-cycle development experience for scalable architecture and compliance.
How to Monetize a Fitness App
Revenue growth in fitness tracking app development is supported by:
Paid Apps.
Charge users an upfront fee to download and access the app. Pricing depends on the app’s features, content, and platform.
In-App Purchases.
Sell additional content such as workout plans, meal recipes, or motivational music to enhance the user experience.
Premium Subscriptions (Freemium Model).
Offer a free version with basic features while reserving advanced fitness plans, personal coaching, and exclusive content for paying subscribers.
Advertisements.
Display relevant ads without disrupting user experience. Fitness-related promotions work best to maintain engagement.
Sponsored Content.
Partner with gyms, trainers, or fitness brands to distribute their content within the app in exchange for payment.
eCommerce Integration.
Sell branded fitness gear, accessories, or custom fitness trackers through the app or an external store.
Most Popular Fitness Tracker Apps 2025
Explore the top fitness apps, their standout features, and key takeaways from their success.
MyFitnessPal
MyFitnessPal is more than a calorie counter—it’s a complete nutrition and fitness tracking tool. AI-driven meal analysis scans food photos for accurate macros, while seamless wearable integration adjusts calorie goals based on recovery data. Best For: Users who want precise food tracking and adaptive nutrition guidance.
Nike Training Club (NTC)
NTC delivers personalized workouts that adapt mid-session based on heart rate. "Smart Form Check" analyzes posture in real time, while AR integration brings guided workouts into any space. Best For: Users seeking smart, adaptive training with real-time feedback.
Strava
Strava is the top choice for runners and cyclists, offering in-depth performance insights. New features track how terrain affects effort and monitor gear wear to prevent injuries. Best For: Outdoor athletes looking for advanced performance tracking.
Fitbod
Fitbod creates strength-training plans based on fatigue and progress. It predicts recovery needs, suggests optimal weight increases, and highlights neglected muscle groups with 3D mapping. Best For: Strength trainers wanting a data-driven, adaptive workout plan.
Headspace
Headspace connects mindfulness with fitness. It tracks stress, recommends pre-workout meditation, and logs post-exercise reflections to improve focus and recovery. Best For: Athletes prioritizing mental resilience and recovery.
Challenges in Fitness Tracker App Development
Fitness tracker apps have revolutionized health monitoring, but their development is fraught with challenges. Four key hurdles stand out:
Ensuring Accuracy of Health Data
Accuracy of the health data is the backbone of any fitness tracking app. Users depend on metrics like step counts, heart rate, and calorie burn to make informed health decisions. Inaccurate data can mislead users, erode trust, or even pose health risks. Poor sensor quality, flawed algorithms, and inconsistent user input contribute to this challenge.
Solutions:
High-Quality Sensors and Algorithms: Developers should use reliable sensors and collaborate with health experts to design precise algorithms. These algorithms must be validated against benchmarks to ensure metrics align with real-world outcomes.
User Input Optimization: Create intuitive interfaces that encourage users to input accurate details (e.g., age, weight) and include calibration features to account for variables like terrain or weather.
Continuous Refinement: Regularly update algorithms based on user feedback and emerging research to maintain accuracy over time.
User Privacy and Data Security Compliance
Health data is highly sensitive, and users expect it to be protected. Developers must comply with strict regulations like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) while safeguarding against cybersecurity threats. A breach can damage user trust and result in legal consequences.
Solutions:
Robust Encryption: Implement strong encryption for data both in transit (e.g., during syncing) and at rest (e.g., in storage) to prevent unauthorized access.
Regulatory Compliance: Secure explicit user consent for data collection and anonymize data used for research or analytics to meet legal standards.
Proactive Security: Use two-factor authentication and conduct regular security audits to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Device Compatibility and Integration Issues
Fitness tracking apps must function seamlessly across various devices, operating systems (e.g., iOS, Android), and third-party platforms (e.g., Apple Health, Google Fit). Variability in hardware, differing OS APIs, and high battery consumption complicate this process, potentially leading to inconsistent user experiences.
Solutions:
Cross-Platform Development: Use modular designs and frameworks (e.g., Flutter, React Native) to adapt to hardware differences and ensure compatibility across operating systems.
Third-Party Integration: Follow platform-specific protocols to integrate smoothly with external services, enabling data syncing without disrupting functionality.
Battery Optimization: Minimize resource usage by optimizing code and reducing background processes to prevent excessive battery drain.
Keeping Users Engaged Long-Term
Since the market has its established leaders, it is tough to compete, surprise, and engage users. Many abandon apps due to a lack of motivation or repetitive experiences. Developers must find ways to unify their product to stay relevant over time.
Solutions:
Personalization: Tailor fitness plans and recommendations to individual user goals (e.g., weight loss, endurance) and preferences, enhancing relevance.
Gamification: Introduce rewards, challenges, or badges to make fitness fun and encourage consistent use.
Community and Feedback: Build social features (e.g., leaderboards, group challenges) and provide actionable progress reports to foster a sense of connection and achievement.
Future Trends in Fitness Tracker Apps
The fitness app race is heating up. According to a fitness app market analysis by Grand View Research, top startups are betting on mHealth (hydration, women’s health, safety) and techs like AI, VR, and wearables. Miss these trends, and you lose. Read on for a detailed overview of trends:
Mental Health & Wellness
Mental wellness is now a core focus in developing a fitness app. Sensor Tower’s 2024 data shows rising demand for stress relief and mindfulness tools. Apps include meditation, breathwork, and sleep options. At the same time, Headspace and other platforms are adding fitness routines, which results in a well-rounded approach to health.
Women in Focus
With women making up almost 60% of users, fitness apps are stepping up. Sweat features top female trainers. HARNA customizes workouts based on menstrual cycles, providing a unique fitness approach.
Smart Personalization with AI & ML
AI-driven apps now customize workouts, predict the best recovery plans, and enhance motivation. Thus, Freeletics tailors schedules, MyFitnessPal adds competition, and Future delivers real-time coaching for next-level training.
VR and AR Revolution
VR and AR revolutionize fitness by making workouts an immersive and engaging experience. Instead of staring at a screen, users can cycle through 3D landscapes (Zwift) or boxes in an interactive arena (Liteboxer VR).
Seamless Wearable Integration
Fitness apps and wearables combine and extend their functionality beyond mere exercise trackers. With Fitbit, Apple Watch, and Whoop leading the charge, biometric data, such as sleep quality, heart rate, recovery, and exertion levels, helps them meet their fitness goals.
Gamification for Engagement
Gamification keeps users motivated with points, challenges, and rewards. Strava fuels competition with leaderboards, while Nike Run Club celebrates milestones with achievement badges, making every workout a victory.
Eco-Conscious
Gen Z demands sustainability, and fitness apps are stepping up. Low-carbon workouts, green brand partnerships, and impact tracking are redefining fitness. Plogga turns runs into clean-up missions, while Ecosia Active plants trees with every workout.
Build a Fitness Tracker App with Darly Solutions
Fitness platforms are close to one of our core specializations—healthcare and wearable app development. We follow a structured process to ensure a high-quality, user-centric product that meets your business goals.
1. Initial Consultation and Requirement Analysis. Contact Darly Solutions to discuss your app vision. Their team will assess your objectives, target audience, and desired features to align the final product with market demands.
2. Concept Design and UI/UX Development. Darly Solutions designs intuitive, engaging interfaces that enhance user experience. Their FitSync concept demonstrates expertise in crafting user-friendly fitness applications with personalized fitness plans.
3. Custom Software Development. As a custom software development company, Darly Solutions builds scalable fitness tracker apps using the latest technologies to ensure smooth device performance.
4. Feature Integration. Key functionalities include activity tracking, goal setting, data visualization, and wearable device integration. These features enhance user engagement and provide valuable fitness insights.
5. Quality Assurance and Testing. Rigorous testing ensures a reliable, bug-free application that delivers optimal performance.
6. Deployment and Ongoing Support. After launch, Darly Solutions provides continuous updates, security enhancements, and technical support to keep the app competitive.
7. Cost Considerations. Development costs depend on complexity, features, and timeframe. Darly Solutions offers insights into budgeting to help you make informed investment decisions.
Partnering with Darly Solutions ensures a standout fitness tracker app that drives user engagement and success in the health and wellness market. Do you want to create your own fitness app, yet don’t know where to start? Darly Solutions will assist you with the right expertise and tech stack!
With the global aging population and the rise of chronic diseases, the remote patient monitoring market is booming as ever. From 2023 to 2024, it grew from $30.97B to $36.31B. And it won't stop here. Insider Intelligence predicts 70.6M US patients will use software for remote patient monitoring by 2025.
We can't overstate the importance of remote patient monitoring software. Such apps improve access to care, reduce hospital readmissions, and help save up to 60% on hospital visits, which results in higher-quality treatment in the comfort of patients' homes.
And benefits don't end up here. With ongoing digitalization via IoT and modernization of the healthcare system, don't wait for the best time for remote patient monitoring software development. The best time is now.
We've detailed remote patient monitoring apps below and covered their benefits, architecture, and top examples. You'll also see how Darly Solutions crafted an app for the health tech company. Read on, and stay tuned.
RPM monitoring software—is a digital tool for wearables, mobile apps, and medical devices that collects, analyzes, and shares patient data with medical personnel. Heart rate, blood sugar, and oxygen levels are among the most vital metrics. RPM software scores help catch health issues early, manage chronic conditions, and aid post-operative recovery.
How remote patient monitoring software works
From heart rate to blood glucose, each RPM system is designed to monitor a specific aspect of the body. However, elements included in any remote patient monitoring software development are typically the same. This is how the RPM system works:
Collects and exchanges data. Once calibrated, the devices send the data from the patient to the provider. The devices must have a Wi-Fi or LTE adapter for successful transfer. The data can also be sent via Bluetooth to IoT mobile apps via RPM devices.
Centralizes storage. The provider securely stores the data collected from various sources, including patient devices, analytics systems, and e-medicine.
Analyze. The data is processed using advanced AI for management and analytics. Alerts are sent to caregivers, providers, and patients as needed, per their preferences.
Broadcasts. Remote monitoring systems become telemedicine platforms when integrated with communication features like video conferencing, simplifying doctor-patient interaction.
Sends emergency notifications. When doctors identify health issues requiring daily monitoring, they oversee the data collected by the RPM system. Notably, it can notify emergency services if a patient needs urgent care. For non-urgent cases, patients can receive instructions for the next steps. However, HIPAA and similar regulations may restrict including sensitive patient information in certain notifications to protect privacy.
Nevertheless, the RPM is part of the broader automation revolution; it has universal healthcare benefits overall. Let's examine the main of them:
Better access to health services
With remote patient monitoring software, medical services have no geographical boundaries. Patients can get timely medical attention at home and manage their health, fostering a greater sense of control under health conditions.
Improved patient outcomes
A study found that RPM cut hospital admissions for chronic care complications by 19% to 41%, which results in improved patient outcomes.
Cost-effective care with reduced readmissions
The average cost of hospital readmission is about $15,200, which makes the prevention of readmissions through remote patient monitoring software financially beneficial for both patients and providers. Even more, it is a well-established fact that early detection generally translates to lower healthcare costs.
Better client engagement and satisfaction
Over 94% of patients are satisfied with RPM's care. It sparks their curiosity about their health and boosts engagement. Such an increased sense of involvement often inspires commitment to treatment plans.
Early detection and timely intervention
The CDC reports that RPM can cut chronic disease complications by 40%. This highlights the need for swift intervention to reduce health risks.
Components of remote patient monitoring software
There is no one-fit RPM soft, as it differs in nature. However, each patient monitoring system generally has 3 to 5 basic components. Let’s delve into them:
Personal monitoring devices
From continuous glucose and heart rate monitors to blood pressure cuffs, digital scales, and peak flow meters.
Patient-side mobile applications
Prioritize user experience, making it easy for patients to access their health data. Additionally, they offer features like medication reminders and secure chats with healthcare providers.
Cloud database
Cloud repositories allow healthcare providers to store large patient data securely. They are scalable and accessible, adapting to growing datasets for long-term monitoring.
Hospital-side web app
These applications are part of hospital management software. They ensure compliance, enable integration, and support decision-making. Additionally, they offer reporting, notifications, and analytics to improve patient care.
Other modules
These comprise decision support systems, reporting tools, notification systems, and analytics platforms.
Essential features in remote patient monitoring solutions
Here are the essential features of a remote patient monitoring (RPM) solution:
Real-time tracking of patient vital signs
Wearable sensors, fitness trackers, blood pressure monitors, and glucose meters perfectly gather and handle real-time health metrics. Then, this data is sent to healthcare providers and added to Electronic Health Records (EHRs) for timely interventions and informed decisions preventing complications.
Intuitive interfaces and user-friendly features
Machines must be easy to set up, a breeze to wear, and simple to operate. Meanwhile, patients should access their data effortlessly through a smooth web or mobile app to track their progress. This connection allows seamless communication with healthcare providers, ensuring everyone's on the same page.
Accessibility features
Ultimately, create a system with all users in mind. Consider accessibility guidelines like WCAG and CVAA to pave the way for inclusive innovation. Encompass voice control for effortless data entry, navigation, and text-to-speech features to support people with dyslexia and other disabilities. Moreover, a patient-first design shines with screen reader compatibility, high-contrast modes, and a crystal-clear interface.
Personalized risk alerts and reminders
For swift and customizable alerts, the RPM system must adjust thresholds. For example, alerts can be sent when vital signs fall outside preset limits. This enables timely intervention to reduce the risk of adverse events.
Safe data transmission and storage
Patient data security is a top priority in remote patient monitoring software development. Thus, apps must comply with all regulations like HIPAA, as they protect the privacy and security of patient data and save from hefty fines.
Smooth EHR integration
EHR integration allows the automatic transfer of RPM data, giving healthcare providers access to complete patient histories for better decision-making and outcomes.
Reports and analysis of patient health data
Advanced analytics and reporting in remote patient monitoring software development provide valuable data insights for healthcare professionals (for data-driven decisions) and patients (to motivate healthier choices).
The architecture of a remote patient monitoring system
Remote health monitoring systems are designed with a multi-layered architecture. Basically, it has five core components that enable uninterrupted data flow within the system. Let’s break into the point of the whole structure:
Smart-connected sensors for health tracking
The sensor layer comprises remote monitoring devices such as EKGs, sleep trackers, smartwatches, and blood pressure monitors. Then, they transmit this data to the dedicated mobile app via Bluetooth or to the cloud via the Internet.
Patient interface
Patient-facing RPM apps collect real-time health data from connected medical devices, allowing manual entry of symptoms and medication intake. RPM apps often include data visualizations for tracking health trends and may have integrated telemedicine features, such as video conferencing for appointments, follow-ups, prescriptions, and virtual consultations.
Cloud RPM server
Cloud services form the core of RPM systems, providing secure storage, processing, and data analysis from devices and the RPM app. This engine also integrates with EHR systems to access patient health information (PHI) in FHIR format. It can identify trends, such as early signs of complications.
Medical staff dashboard
Patient data flows bidirectionally between the medical staff interface and the cloud RPM server, enabling effective management by care teams.
Data visualization module. Via charts and graphs that show trends in vital signs, medication adherence, and other data, the module gives providers a 360-degree view of the patient.
Alert management module. The system promptly alerts clinicians to critical situations and device failures in real-time.
Reporting module. The module generates custom reports on patient data, which hugely help track progress and gain insights over time.
Communication module. This module has two-way messaging, video chat, and/or telephony integration and is made for secure, remote communication between clinicians and patients.
Appointment management module. This module handles appointment scheduling and patient-provider communication, allowing both patients and providers to request appointments.
Depending on the organization's needs, a doctor-facing RPM interface can include other modules, such as patient management, care plans, and patient education.
Admin web panel
A key part of the RPM architecture is a control dashboard. It helps with admin tasks like configuring roles, managing patients, and setting alarms.
Once you have a clear idea for your software product, find an experienced dev company to implement it. When contacting your tech partner, you don't need detailed software requirements. A high-level understanding of the functionalities is enough to get started for any custom healthcare software development services stages. Let’s break them down:
Step 1: Requirement collection and analysis
The process starts by refining your product vision. Then, define project goals based on the health conditions your RPM solution will address. Your team will then identify core functions, pick the best tech stack, and plan the app's architecture. If integration with systems like EHRs is required, your tech partner will ensure compatibility.
Step 2: Outlining security and compliance requirements
Remote patient monitoring software must follow HIPAA and FDA rules. The development team implements audit trails, encryption, secure cloud storage, and APIs for secure communication to ensure data security and privacy. They also define a testing strategy for the pre- and post-production phases.
Step 3: Prototyping and design
To create an intuitive, user-first staff interface, UX/UI teams conduct user research to define user personas and journeys. Based on this research, designers create a prototype reflecting both the initial vision and user needs, gathering feedback on the user experience. The team prioritizes a clean, engaging, and accessible design. Based on feedback, they will refine the prototype and send the final designs to the dev team.
Step 4: Development and integration
Tech experts will use best practices to develop your RPM system iteratively to meet regulatory compliance. This work may include front and backend components, patient and doctor apps, and integration of medical devices.
Step 5: Testing
When it comes to RPM development—thorough software testing is as important as the development itself. After testing, developers should prioritize IoMT device compatibility. They must also ensure smooth integration with the RPM system for the most stability.
Step 6: Ongoing improvements
After deployment, the dev team monitors and tunes the RPM system to meet business and tech needs. They provide training and support for patients and healthcare professionals.
Beyond monitoring and troubleshooting, your tech team will prepare a roadmap for software updates. This will enhance the system's features and security in the future.
RPM Software Deployment: Challenges and Practical Solutions
Let us explore the most notable challenges organizations encounter while deploying their RPM.
Regulatory compliance
RPM's compliance with HIPAA and GDPR relies on strong data security and privacy. It must meet standards like ISO 27001 and IEC 62304 for this.
What to do:
Develop a comprehensive compliance framework according to all requirements like HIPAA, GDPR, FTC (Federal Trade Commission), FDA regulations, and more.
Conduct regular audits and assessments outlining clear policies and protocols for staff.
Provide ongoing staff training to ensure they are aware of their responsibilities.
Data security and privacy
Healthcare organizations handle sensitive patient data (vitals, medical history, personal details, reports, treatment plans). Unauthorized access poses the risk of data breaches and subsequent fines that could total millions of dollars.
What to do:
Use encryption techniques of RPM-collected data, telehealth appointment recordings, and other sensitive patient health data.
Implement strong authentication and role-based access.
Regular audits and security assessments.
Conduct employee and patient training.
Adopt role-based access control (RBAC)
Technology integration and compatibility
Outdated systems may lack compatibility, hindering integration and impacting data accuracy and security. Integrating EHR and clinical systems can also be difficult, affecting data sharing and patient care. Ensuring interoperability for seamless data exchange adds another layer of complexity.
What to do:
Assess current infrastructure compatibility.
Follow interoperability standards and protocols.
Adopt HL7 and FHIR standards.
Cost-benefit analysis
RPM implementation presents a cost-benefit challenge for healthcare organizations. While offering benefits like improved outcomes and enhanced care, the substantial upfront investment in hardware, software, infrastructure, licensing, staff training, regulatory compliance, and data security must be carefully weighed.
What to do:
Conduct thorough cost assessments.
Estimate ROI and potential cost savings.
Strategically allocate resources.
Data precision and accuracy
Inaccurate data transmission from RPM devices (e.g., wearables) poses a significant challenge, potentially leading to misdiagnosis and compromised treatment. Several factors can affect data accuracy, including device calibration, signal interference, network issues, and device quality.
What to do:
Choose quality sensors and wearables.
Regularly calibrate devices.
Implement quality assurance measures.
Lack of patient engagement
Some patients fear switching to modern healthcare and its tech just because they are used to in-person hospital visits. Thus, using the devices, checking vital signs, and messaging the doctor may be hard for the patients.
What to do:
Prioritize a user-friendly interface.
Craft tutorials for device usage and RPM data analytics interpretation.
Incorporate gamification elements (e.g., badges, progress tracking) to incentivize engagement.
Bridge language barriers for diverse patient populations by providing support in multiple languages.
RPM software development cost
The cost of developing Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) software varies based on complexity, features, and the development team's location. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs associated with RPM software development:
Basic RPM application ranges from $50K–$70K.
Standard RPM software ranges from $100K–$400K or higher, depending on the specific requirements and features.
Costs can be $500K or more for advanced solutions with complex systems and integrations.
Both building an in-house tech team and outsourcing software development come with significant costs: salaries/recruitment expenses versus hourly rates and vendor fees. Without proper research, you risk overpaying for a software solution—whether through in-house hiring costs or outsourcing fees—or settling for a product that doesn't meet your requirements.
To calculate the precise budget for your RPM software development idea—please fill out this form. We will contact you shortly.
Best RPM software
Here are some popular remote patient monitoring use cases that might inspire you for your own:
CoachCare
CoachCare was founded over a decade ago, now supports over 3,000 organizations, and serves over 150,000 patients. Boasting a remarkable RPM, it claims a success rate exceeding 95%. It advocates for RPM coverage and collaborates with groups like CMS and AMA. CoachCare's tech lets patients log vital health metrics via an app. Its simplicity boosts engagement. Experts recognize its support of the healthcare industry.
Healee
Healee is a health tech company founded in 2017, now handles over 700,000 visits per month, both onsite and virtual, and supports 5,000 physicians across 200 clinics. With EHR, e-prescription, and billing integrations, the Healee platform streamlines healthcare delivery in wellness, mental health, chronic care, and women's health.
Doctolib
Founded in Paris in 2013, Doctolib is a top healthcare booking platform. It serves over 400,000 providers and 50 million users. It handles 70 million monthly bookings in France, Germany, and Italy. It offers appointment scheduling, telemedicine, and patient messaging. These services reduce missed appointments by 60% and save doctors 1.5 hours per week on administrative tasks.
Senseonics
This company revolutionizes blood glucose monitoring. The system features a sleek, removable transmitter and a sensor expertly implanted under the skin by a healthcare pro. Connected to a mobile app, the sensor offers real-time insights, alerting patients through their smartphones or smartwatches when their glucose levels are too high. Sharing data with healthcare providers and family members becomes a breeze, ensuring optimal treatment strategies.
Currently, around 6,000 users benefit from the Eversense CGM system. By 2025, Senseonics aims to double that number.
Teladoc
Established in 2006, this Hoboken, New Jersey-based powerhouse is revolutionizing healthcare. With an extensive network of licensed professionals, HRS proudly claims the #1 spot in KLAS’ ‘Top Remote Patient Monitoring Companies’ from 2020 to 2023.
HRS offers its innovative PatientConnect platform, featuring over 90 tailored RPM plans for healthcare providers. Beyond monitoring, HRS embraces holistic care, providing behavioral health services like therapy and psychiatry, ensuring a comprehensive touch on every aspect of patient wellbeing.
Improving patient outcomes with RPM software: A case by Darly Solutions
In particular, the health tech company approached us about remote patient monitoring software development. They faced challenges with patient tech literacy, especially among the elderly. There was a risk of data overload for providers. Patient engagement was inconsistent. There was a need for system integration, like with EHRs. Plus, they had to ensure data privacy and security (HIPAA compliance).
Since the deadline was tight and there were a lot of high-precision requirements—we created a detailed plan for the project, assigned UX/UI design, web development, QA, and project management tasks, and pinpointed the tech stack.
Technology stack
We understood that choosing the right technology stack was crucial for success. After thorough consideration, we selected:
Angular: For building dynamic web applications.
HTML/CSS: For structuring and formatting the user’s interface.
Docker: To streamline deployment through containerization.
ngRx: For effective state management.
TailwindCSS: To enable rapid UI development.
NGX Pagination: For efficient handling of large datasets.
JSON: For smooth and efficient data transfer between client and server.
Our efforts paid off. We launched the product on time, meeting all design, functionality, and quality standards. Our client now has a competitive product that is well-placed to thrive in the innovative telemedicine sector.
Rising public interest, health concerns, and tech advances drive the RPM market to new heights in solutions and revenue. As we noted earlier, these technologies enable 24/7 health monitoring. They also provide remote populations with access to quality treatments.
Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff should focus less on routine, manual tasks in the next few years. They should focus on saving lives and providing treatment, which RPM can support perfectly. It can greatly reduce burnout and ease stress on global healthcare systems while driving market share to higher results and stakeholder benefits.
This is a great time if you're considering developing your RPM solution.
Webflow is an all-inclusive web design platform that permits users to create responsive websites without requiring any coding skills. It merges the simplicity of drag-and-drop editors with the flexibility of coding to present a straightforward web design experience to users. Webflow is particularly beneficial for small businesses, startups, and freelancers who need to establish professional-looking websites swiftly and resourcefully.
What website types can be created with Webflow?
The possibilities are practically limitless! Webflow lets you create almost any kind of website:
Corporate websites;
Portfolios;
Blogs for web designers or photographers;
E-commerce websites for online sales;
Landing pages that attract customers or business card sites with job information;
Educational tool.
Essential features that Webflow offers to users
Webflow offers users several key features, including a drag-and-drop interface, responsive design, CMS integration, animation and interaction, and SEO optimization. Marketing agencies, online stores, and creative companies are the industries that most often use the web flow builder. Let's take a closer look at these features:
Thanks to its drag-and-drop interface, Webflow simplifies the process of design creation. With this amazing tool, you can drag and drop elements directly onto the canvas and arrange them in any way that works best for your project - no coding required! But if you want to improve your coding skills, you can add custom code to your designs and be more creative.
Websites in Webflow look great on any device - large, small, or full-size. You have the ability to preview how your design looks on different screens to ensure perfect responsiveness across all devices.
CMS integration allows users to create and manage dynamic pages, content, collections, and custom fields without coding.
Bring your design to life with Webflow's easy-to-use interactions and animations! You get hover, interaction, and animation effects in one place to make any project fun and interactive.
You can add meta titles and descriptions, customize images and content, or create sitemaps to maximize your SEO optimization efforts.
With Webflow, you can build and manage an online store connected to platforms like Shopify or Foxy without ever leaving your site.
Regardless of the industry or business, Webflow is a great choice for building customized websites, web applications, and landing pages. Its versatility and integration with other marketing tools make it ideal for companies of all sizes.
What industries most often use this platform?
Webflow is quickly becoming the tool of choice for web designers and developers, startups, small businesses, e-commerce stores, and nonprofits that prioritize design and user experience over development efficiency. A popular choice for those who prioritize design and user experience. It is used by creative agencies, small businesses, and online stores. In addition, the low learning curve makes it extremely affordable and ideal for non-profit organizations or educational institutions looking to promote their cause or educate their audience. In short, Webflow is an incredibly powerful tool with a lot of flexible options for web designers/developers, regardless of the size of the industry.
Create your website with Webflow in 5 steps
We would like to share with you our experience of how we have built a website on Webflow.
Step 1
Ask yourself: "What do you want to do?". Start your project with one of the ready-made Webflow templates or create something completely new.
Step 2
Think about the page structure, add blocks and elements necessary for each page. For example, on the home page, you can add a banner to welcome visitors, write customer reviews, or showcase services and products. On the About page, you can post information about your company, photos and videos of employees, etc.
Step 3
Design a website layout in Webflow with the controls. Move, resize, and change colors on elements to your heart's content.
Step 4
Fill your website with content. Don't forget about high-quality photos and videos, unique text, and SEO keywords.
Step 5
Before submitting, you'll want to make sure your website is mistake-free. Webflow has a quick and easy error checker to scan for issues like broken links, misplaced content, etc.
Your website is all set to go live! Webflow gives you the option of using your own domain or their subdomain.
Did you know that our website is built on Webflow?
We took a while to pick a platform for publishing. We carefully weighed the pros and cons of other platforms when choosing to publish on Webflow. Despite other platforms' benefits, Webflow was our choice because of its performance-oriented design and flexibility & customization. It's designed for performance, which translates into faster loading times and a smooth user experience that keeps your audience engaged. Webflow also gives us maximum flexibility to create original websites tailored to each client—from design, layout, functionality & UX - so you get exactly what you need from your website. We are confident that Webflow is the best choice for our clients due its quality features, speed & customizability; it guarantees a high-performing site that gets results!
Summary
To summarize, Webflow is the perfect choice for website development. It offers design flexibility, a user-friendly interface, powerful SEO tools, mobile responsiveness, and fast, secure hosting to help you achieve your business goals. Do you want to create a stunning and professional website that will attract the attention of your audience and help you grow your business? Our team of experts will make it happen in no time with Webflow - without compromising on quality. With our team and powerful tools, we'll help you create the perfect online presence in no time. Contact us today to learn more about how we can build the perfect website for you with Webflow.
Connect with us
At this stage, we get acquainted with your needs, outline the goals and desired results. We are always happy to take your project to the next level, and then beyond
We are a tech partner that delivers ingenious digital solutions, engineering and vertical services for industry leaders powered by vetted talents.
Successfully sent!
We have received your submission and will get back to you shortly.