How to Build Your Own Mobile Application

Have you noticed that every website these days seems to have a mobile app? This isn't a fluke, mobile technology is the way of the future. If you have been thinking about making your own app, no matter what the reason or genre, this is a great time to get it done.

But how do you build a mobile app? It might surprise you to know that various tools have been created to make it simple to build an app for even the most technologically challenged user. Some are free, some charge a flat fee and others have you pay per update. But all of them are pretty cool, and very handy if you just need something to guide you through the process. Think of them as the HTML builders of the current decade.

1. AppMakr

This is the program I hear getting recommended the most, usually because it is completely free to build your app. It works by allowing you to make an iPhone app by putting in a URL or keyword, then guides you through the process. It also allows you to share the app, create an RSS feed, place on user notifications, monitor analytics and reputation, update using in-app HTML, add in a video feature, place ads in your app to monetize it, play podcasts, create image galleries and more.

2. The App Builder

This is another free app program that boasts the speed at which you can create your app. It is more social-minded, with a lot of push for connecting to Facebook and other social media accounts. Mainly to engage in conversation with others and potentially bring in others to both use your app and create their own. It also have a business and education feature that can be very helpful for a more targeted app.

3. Mobile Roadie

For something more thorough and powerful, you are going to have to put in a bit of cash. Mobile Roadie is a full mobile optimization tool that creates free mobile websites for any smartphone browser, iPhone and Android apps for $99 a month, an d iPad apps for $299 per month. The benefit is increased control over design customization, advanced features and developers tools, and organization options like categories and search.

4. Buildanapp

If Mobile Roadie is a little pricey for your budget, a single time fee program might be better. Buildanapp has many of the same features and offer both a standard and professional version of their software. You can remove banner ads from published apps, add in mobile web and fully customize your programs. It is compatible with iPhone, Android, Windows Phone and BlackBerry.

5. MobBase

Anyone who is planning on connecting with fans, sending through merchandise or sharing media (music, videos, images, ect) are probably going to want a specific app builder that won't charge per update. Quite a few professionals have used this builder, and the way it allows you to control the design while still focusing on the development side is a major plus. It is free to build your app, but their premium service is where all the best features are. You basically add on feature ala cart.

6. BuzzTouch

Most apps are going to do all the work for you. This one actually teaches you while also doing the work for you, which is an impressive upgrade in service. It allows you to make up to three hosted apps for free, while getting the tutorials through BuzzTouch U, app source code, installed plugins of your choice, and access to webinars. But their premium service is only $69.99 per year, so worth it if you want push notifications, unlimited supported apps, and to sell plugins.

Conclusion

Making an app might not be rocket science, but it isn't easy, either. In the past we had to rely on developers that would be hired on for costly fees to make simple apps for websites or business. Now you can do it on your own using one of these automated programs that will take you through each step. They are all handy little tools to have on hand.

Know of any good mobile app builders? Let us know in the comments.