We are living in a “mobile-first” world and every application is developed in device-specific languages. Where most apps for Apple devices are made using Objective C, the Android counterpart uses Java.

However, for developers, this has always been a challenge to develop different applications for both platforms. That’s mostly because none of the developers want to miss out on the audience of any of these platforms. So if reaching a broader audience is paramount, the requirement of open-source platforms comes up in the scenario. Here is where Apache Cordova plays a pivotal role.

This platform is one of the best open sources available to app developers using HTML, JavaScript, and CSS. Mostly, today’s programmers use PhoneGap which is a readily used mobile application development framework and Phonegap uses Apache Cordova as its working engine.

A Brief About Cordova

Apache Cordova is an open-source platform that makes web applications in native languages allowing it’s access to device functionalities like GPS, camera, and even the file system. All of this is done using a unified API. Apache Cordova is also popular because of its ease of being used on multiple platforms.

Applications made on this platform are supported by Windows, iOS, as well as Android. That’s with the help of reuse and simplified facilitating of codes. This makes the development process of hybrid mobile applications easier.

Apache Cordova is an open-source mobile development framework that enables developers to build cross-platform mobile applications using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It wraps web applications in a native container, allowing access to device functionalities like camera, GPS, and file system through a unified API. It also simplifies the UI-UX design and development .

Cordova has been contributed by Adobe Systems to the Apache Software Foundation. There have been various contributions to the platform and further advanced features are introduced with every version. The latest stable version is 2.9.0.

Working of Cordova

Apache Cordova works by bridging the gap between web technologies and native mobile functionalities, enabling mobile developers to create cross-platform mobile apps using familiar web languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

• Developers write their mobile apps using standard web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript). This core web application runs inside a WebView, which is essentially a web browser without Chrome, embedded within a native app container.
• Developers write their mobile apps using standard web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript). This core web application runs inside a WebView, which is essentially a web browser without Chrome, embedded within a native app container.
• To access native device features like the camera, GPS, file system, and accelerometer, Cordova uses plugins. These plugins are pieces of code written in the native language of the platform (Java for Android, Swift/Objective-C for iOS).
• This provides JavaScript interfaces. When the web app needs to use a native feature, it calls a JavaScript function provided by a Cordova plugin.
• The bridging API facilitates communication between the WebView and the native platform. When a JavaScript function is called, the bridging API routes this call to the corresponding native code and executes it. Then it returns the result to the web application.

Why Migrate to Apache Cordova 2.5?

Migrating to Apache Cordova 2.5 is beneficial for several reasons, providing improvements that enhance the performance, security, and functionality of your mobile applications. Here are the key reasons to consider migrating:

# Performance Enhancements

Cordova 2.5 includes optimizations that make your apps run faster and more efficiently. These improvements can result in a smoother user experience, with quicker load times and more responsive interfaces. It also smoothens the application integration from website to mobile or cross-platform.

# Bug Fixes

Every new release of Cordova addresses bugs found in previous versions. By migrating to 2.5, you ensure that your app benefits from these fixes, reducing the likelihood of encountering issues that could disrupt user experience or cause crashes.

# Security Updates

Security is a critical aspect of any mobile application. Cordova 2.5 includes important security updates that protect your app and its users from vulnerabilities. Staying up-to-date with the latest version helps safeguard against potential threats and exploits.

# New Features and Plugins

Cordova 2.5 introduces new features and updates to existing plugins, expanding the capabilities of your app. These additions can provide new functionalities, enhance existing ones, and ensure better compatibility with the latest mobile operating systems.

# Improved Documentation and Support

Newer versions of Cordova come with updated documentation, making it easier to find information and troubleshoot issues. The community support for the latest version is also more active, providing timely help and resources.

# Compatibility

Ensuring compatibility with the latest mobile OS versions is crucial. Cordova 2.5 is designed to work well with the latest Android and iOS updates, helping your app run smoothly across different devices and platforms.

Why Moving From Cordova 1.4 to Cordova 2.5 Makes More Sense?

Moving from Cordova 1.4 to Cordova 2.5 makes more sense for several key reasons. All of which can significantly enhance your mobile application's performance, security, and overall functionality.

# Significant Performance Improvements

Cordova 2.5 introduces numerous performance optimizations compared to version 1.4. These enhancements make your app run faster, smoother, and more efficiently. Improved performance leads to a better user experience, with quicker load times and more responsive interactions.

# Enhanced Security

Security is a top priority in mobile app development . Cordova 2.5 includes critical security updates that address vulnerabilities found in earlier versions. By upgrading, you ensure your app is protected against potential threats and exploits, safeguarding user data and maintaining trust.

# Bug Fixes

Version 2.5 incorporates numerous bug fixes that resolve issues present in 1.4. These fixes can prevent crashes and other problems that negatively impact user experience. By migrating, you benefit from a more stable and reliable application.

# New Features and Functionality

Cordova 2.5 introduces new features and updates existing ones, expanding what your app can do. These features include improved APIs and better support for device-specific capabilities, allowing you to enhance your app's functionality and provide a richer experience for users.

# Improved Plugin System

It offers a more robust and flexible plugin architecture. This makes it easier to add and manage plugins that provide access to native device features like the camera, GPS, and file system. The new plugin system improves compatibility and simplifies the development process.

# Better Documentation and Community Support

Upgrading to a more recent version means better documentation and more active community support. Cordova 2.5 benefits from improved resources, tutorials, and community forums, making it easier to find help and troubleshoot issues.

# Compatibility with the Latest OS Versions

Cordova 2.5 is designed to be compatible with the latest versions of Android and iOS. This ensures your app runs smoothly on the newest devices and operating systems. Also, keep in mind that it provides a consistent experience for all users.

End Note

Migrating from Cordova 1.4 to 2.5 is a strategic decision that offers substantial benefits. Improved performance, enhanced security, new features, and better support all contribute to creating a more robust and user-friendly application. By upgrading, you ensure your app remains competitive and capable of meeting modern mobile standards.

Call us at 484-892-5713 or Contact Us today to know more details about why moving from Cordova 1.4 to Cordova 2.5?