What is iOS?

Apple Inc. developed iOS operating system specifically for use on its mobile devices like the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. iOS is well-renowned for its user-friendly interface, reliability and security as well as providing access to an extensive library of features and applications. Likewise, iOS is updated regularly with designed and features for improving the  users experience and staying abreast with modern tech advancement.

Why is iOS a Popular Choice for an Operating System?

The user-friendly interface and high functionality are only a couple of attributes contributing to its popularity. iOS ranks as the second most popular OS, with an estimated market size of 27.1% by 2023. So, let's delve into the reasons behind iOS's popularity.

1. Security

A key selling point for iOS has always been its security features. Users are shielded from dangerous malware and other internet hazards through the operating system. Data encryption, app sandboxing, and automated software upgrades are some of the security aspects that make iOS a safe operating system.



2. User Experience

User experience is one of the main aspects companies aim to enhance to boost their performance. Apple has always been known for being detail-oriented, and the excellent iOS interface reflects the same. Thanks to its simple design, users can easily navigate through menus, access functions, and hop between programs.



3. Hardware Integration

iOS was specifically created for Apple devices. Thus it guarantees a faster and more effective user experience than other operating systems.



4. Developer Support

Apple delivers excellent developer assistance in the form of exceptional tools and resources. It enables you to engineer top-notch iOS apps and explore the boundaries of the platform for novel innovations. As a result, the developer community has flourished and become quite active.



5. Brand Loyalty

Apple's brand loyalty might be partly blamed for iOS's success. Throughout the years, Apple has developed a dedicated community and robust brand identity throughout the years. Since they believe in the company and its principles, many customers are ready to spend more on Apple products.

What are the Essential Skills for an iOS Developer?

Ensuring that you're adequately hiring an iOS developer as per your needs is challenging, especially for someone not from a technical field. Hence, we have listed must-look skills while hiring an iOS developer.

1. Proficiency in Swift

Swift is the primary programming language for developing iOS applications. Therefore, it's essential to hire an iOS developer who is proficient in Swift. The programmer should be able to produce Swift code that is clear, effective, and easy to update.



2. Knowledge of iOS SDK

The iOS SDK (Software Development Kit) must be thoroughly understood in order to create iOS applications. The developer must be knowledgeable about how to use the SDK's numerous frameworks, APIs, and libraries to produce applications of the highest caliber.



3. Experience with iOS Architecture Patterns

iOS applications must be designed using a proper architecture pattern that ensures scalability and maintainability. A developer skilled in architecture patterns, like MVC (Model-View-Controller), MVVM (Model-View-ViewModel), or VIPER (View-Interactor-Presenter-Entity-Router), can help you design viable applications.



4. Ability to Develop Custom UI

iOS applications are known for their sleek and intuitive user interfaces. Therefore, you must hire a remote iOS developer or any other type of iOS developer who can develop custom UI elements using tools like Auto Layout, Interface Builder, and Core Animation is essential.



5. Familiarity with Apple's Human Interface Guidelines

Apple's Human Interface Guidelines provide a set of design principles and best practices for developing iOS applications. A developer familiar with these guidelines can ensure that your application meets Apple's standards and provides a seamless user experience.



6. Strong Communication Skills

Last but not least, a developer with effective communication skills is necessary for every project to succeed. They should be capable of communicating with both team members, asking questions when required, and adequately conveying their job.

What are the Key Responsibilities of an iOS Developer?

iOS developers design, devise, and maintain iOS applications. They align their ideas and processes with project managers, designers, and coders to find common ground and create sophisticated yet easy-to-use apps. The following are some of the main duties of an iOS developer:

1. Application Development

The main duty of an iOS programmer is to create excellent iOS applications that satisfy customers' or end users' needs. They write reliable and efficient programs for iOS devices using programming languages like Swift or Objective-C.



2. Testing And Debugging

iOS developers test and debug applications before launch to ensure they are bug-free. They use testing tools and frameworks to conduct automated and manual tests to identify and resolve issues.



3. Collaborating With Cross-Functional Teams

iOS developers work closely with cross-functional teams, including designers, project managers, and others, to ensure the application meets the desired specifications and requirements. They provide technical expertise and input on project feasibility, design, and development.



4. Code Optimization

iOS developers optimize the application's code to improve performance and reduce memory usage. They employ profiling tools to locate performance bottlenecks and put optimization strategies into practice to increase the application's responsiveness and speed.



5. Integration With Backend Systems

iOS developers are responsible for integrating the application with backend systems and APIs to ensure it functions seamlessly with other systems. They collaborate with backend developers to implement API calls, data synchronization, and other integration tasks.



6. Keeping Up With New Technologies And Trends

iOS developers must stay current with new technology, trends, and commercial breakthroughs in order to be competitive in the market. Moreover, to stay updated with the recent advancements in iOS programming, they take part in training programs, read industry blogs and magazines, and attend conferences.

How to Hire an iOS Developer?

Hiring an iOS developer is a critical task that requires careful consideration and planning. That's why we are providing a step-by-step process for hiring an iOS developer below:

1. Determine Your Needs

The first step in hiring an iOS developer is determining your needs. What particular qualifications and experience are you seeking? What is the period and range of your project? You may develop a precise job description by answering these inquiries.



2. Post a Job Listing

After identifying your needs, you must post a job listing. You may use freelancing sites like ultraGenius, Upwork or Toptal or put your listing on employment boards like LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor. You must provide a detailed job description, the necessary abilities and credentials, and any other pertinent information.



3. Review Resumes and Portfolios

After posting your job listing, you will likely receive many resumes and portfolios from potential candidates. Spend time reviewing every profile properly and searching for applicants with expertise working on related projects or with related technology.



4. Conduct Initial Interviews

It is time to conduct preliminary interviews once you've reduced the number of candidates on your list. You can schedule interviews over a call, via a video conference, or in person. Inquire about the applicant's background, aptitude, and problem-solving approach during the interview. Be sure also to assess their communication skills and cultural fit.



5. Technical Assessment

After conducting initial interviews, assessing the candidate's technical skills is time. It can be done through a coding challenge or technical interview. Be sure to provide clear instructions and a reasonable time frame for completing the assessment.



6. Final Interviews and Offer

Once you have completed the technical assessment, it's time to conduct final interviews and make an offer to your top candidate. You can go deeper into the candidate's method of problem-solving and development during the final interview. You must also discuss compensation and any other relevant details.

What are the Best Ways to Hire an iOS Developer?

Finding the appropriate talent to create a successful iOS application might be difficult when hiring an iOS developer. The following are some of the finest ways to hire an iOS developer:

1. Hiring a Freelancer

Hiring a freelance iOS developer can prove to be cost-effective for small projects or startups. Freelancers frequently have a wide range of expertise and are willing to work on temporary or intermittent assignments. You can find freelance iOS developers on Upwork, Freelancer, or Toptal. So if you wish to hire freelance iOS developers, reviewing their portfolio, past work experience, and ratings from previous clients is essential. Be sure to communicate the project scope, timeline, and payment terms.



2. In-house Hiring

Hiring a full-time iOS developer is a better option when you have a larger or ongoing iOS project. In-house developers work directly for your company and can be integrated into your team and company culture. It can lead to better collaboration, faster communication, and improved project outcomes. Hence, you must ensure the potential candidate fits your company culture and possesses apt skills and experience before you hire a full-time iOS developer. You can post a job listing on job boards or LinkedIn or contact staffing agencies to find the right candidate.



3. Outsourcing

Outsourcing iOS development can be a good option for companies without in-house expertise or needing to scale their development quickly. It is also cost-effective as it eliminates the need to train developers like an in-house team. While outsourcing iOS development, finding a reputable and experienced outsourcing partner is essential. You must select partners with an extensive portfolio and a verified track record of high-quality work. It's also necessary to have clear communication to ensure the project is completed on time and to the desired specifications.