Flutter app development is the process of creating mobile applications using the open-source framework, Flutter, developed by Google. Here's the gist:
Single codebase for multiple platforms: Unlike traditional development where you write separate code for iOS and Android, Flutter allows you to build a single codebase and deploy it on both platforms (and even web, Windows, macOS, and Linux). This saves time and resources.
Building with Widgets: Flutter uses widgets as building blocks for the app's user interface (UI). These widgets are like Lego bricks – you can combine them to create anything from simple buttons to complex layouts.
Declarative approach: Instead of writing intricate code to control every aspect of the UI, Flutter uses a declarative approach. You simply describe what the UI should look like based on the current state of your app, and the framework takes care of rendering it efficiently and updating it as needed.
The main aspect of Flutter development can be debated, but two strong contenders are:
Declarative UI with Widgets: This refers to Flutter's approach to building user interfaces (UI). Unlike traditional imperative UI development, Flutter uses a declarative approach. Developers describe the desired UI state, and the framework takes care of rendering it on the screen and updating it efficiently.
- Widgets as building blocks: Flutter uses widgets as the fundamental building blocks for creating UIs. These widgets are reusable components that represent UI elements like buttons, text fields, layouts, etc. Developers combine these widgets to build complex and visually appealing UIs.
- Focus on state: The core idea is to define the UI based on the current state of your app. When the app state changes (e.g., user interaction, data updates), the framework automatically rebuilds only the affected parts of the UI, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience.
Cross-platform development: This is another significant aspect that sets Flutter apart. It allows developers to build mobile applications for various platforms (iOS, Android) using a single codebase. This means you write the code once and it can potentially run on both platforms, saving time and resources.
Both these aspects are intertwined. Declarative UI with widgets makes development faster and more efficient, while cross-platform functionality expands the reach of your app without needing separate codebases for each platform.
Ultimately, the "main" aspect depends on your perspective. If you value efficient UI development and reusability, then the widget-based approach is key. If building a single app for multiple platforms is your priority, then cross-platform development takes center stage.
