Boasting over 2.5 billion active users across 190 countries, Android has grown to become one of the most demanding operating systems in the world. Hard to believe? See for yourself through the statistics below on global market share by mobile operating systems.
Recent research by Statista reports that in January 2024, Android was still the largest mobile operating system in the world, commanding about 72% of the mobile OS industry, with iOS accounting for about 27% of the mobile operating system market.
Undoubtedly, it edges out the others in the mobile application development market; hence, it increases the demand for Android app developers.
The businesses are looking to make the most out of this ever-expanding market. They want their legs in the target audience so that they can use the app proficiently, be it a low-budget application idea or a big project.
However, the process for developing an Android app is not that straightforward; it requires a team of highly professional and experienced Android app developers who can understand your needs and that would provide mobile app development services to meet your needs precisely.
If you are planning to create an Android app for your business, then this article is for you. We will give you a sneak peek at the process of hiring Android app developers for your next project.
But before we start, let’s just do a quick review of the basics of developing an Android application.
What is Android App Development?
Essentially, Android app development is writing applications that are needed on the Android operating system. You can use Java, Kotlin, or C++ to build Android apps with the Android SDK.
Besides, Android SDK is a package of tools and APIs that support developers in developing applications on Android. Along with this, the package also includes an emulator for testing the application that runs on different devices in the absence of actual hardware.
Why Hire Android Developers for App Development?
You may wonder why you would want to hire Android application developers. Aren’t there a lot of online facilities that enable you to develop an app without any particular coding experience?
Well, yes and no. That may help in creating lighter applications, but if one wants a professional-grade application that might stand out in the competitive app market, then hiring the right developers is quite needed.
Android app developers offer expertise, creativity, and experience that guarantee your app will not only function properly but also be liked and enjoyed by the end-users.
The Importance of Hiring the Right Android Developers
With these figures in place, developing an Android mobile application is something important. For this to occur, you need to employ efficient developers in Android . That is where the challenge begins. The fast growth of smartphone subscribers and increased usage of recent versions of Android have thrown wide open the floodgates of opportunities for the mobile development companies.
With so many companies claiming to have the proper talents required, finding an efficient one might feel a whole lot like finding a diamond inside the heap of coal. Let the following seven skills point your way in making just about the right decision by highlighting critical skills for Android development you need while choosing which Android developer you shall outsource your services:.
1. Good knowledge of Java
The developer in Android OS must possess a strong command over Java. This is due to the native development having huge reliance on this very language, for which developers must be conversant with complicated Java syntax and the structure of its programming.
The object-oriented concepts they must know are inheritance, class versus static methods, and so on, plus frameworks such as Hibernate.
In addition, the Android app developers need to know the basics of Java: variables, loops, control structures, and lists. Their proficiency in Java enables them to build solid applications.
2. Knowledge in SQL
Another essential skill is SQL proficiency. This is a database query language that is useful in dealing with data in relational databases.
An Android developer should at least know the use of SQLite-a lightweight version of SQL for mobile devices-which will ensure the storage and retrieval of data in their apps efficiently.
3. Effective XML Coding
While the core of your mobile application is developed in Java, efficient coding in XML is hugely important for representing an attractive interface.
In XML, the layouts are defined and thus it provides the basic UI structure for an Android application. It also is one of the standards to code data for web applications, and allows consistent information exchange between devices.
4. Knowledge of Android SDK
The developer has to be familiar with the software development kit. Additionally, other concepts he/she needs for Android application building are necessary to be identified.
Majorly, knowledge of all kinds of the layout; the view’s user, input, and fetching of results directly from the web have to identified. They include but also such concepts like the Action bar, screen size accommodation for various sizes; storage devices of data density, along with the different life Cycles of activity.
Additionally, one should have in-depth knowledge of Android ‘s documentation. Hire only the developers who can show how to use the Android SDK before hiring them.
5. Experience working on Android Studio
Android Studio is an Integrated Development Environment that puts into one place all the tools a person needs for coding Android apps.
A developer should be comfortable with an IDE since it itself provides features and also shortcuts to easily create bug-free code in an efficient amount of time. In other words, proficiency in Android Studio means a smooth development process for the developer.
6. Desire to Learn
Android is frequently updated, and its standards changed with time; hence, developers must be flexible and open to learning.
At the time of hiring Android developers, analyze how eager they are toward the adoption of new tools and techniques. A willing-to-learn developer will easily adapt to changes and be able to develop more innovative applications.
7. Collaboration Skills
Android development requires effective communication and collaboration. Many times, the process involves teams, hence developers should communicate effectively with other members of a team.
They must be good at collaboration too for giving the best results regarding the project. It is very vital to check for these during hiring to avoid any issue in smooth teamwork.
8. Coding Style and Standards
Moreover, when hiring Android developers, pay attention to their coding style and adherence to standards. For maintainable and readable code, consistent coding practices are needed; this will make it easier for other developers in the future to understand and make changes.
9. Familiarity with Agile Development Methodology
The Agile methodology has grown in popularity in software development for good reason: It allows teams to break down complex projects into smaller, manageable pieces.
If an Android application developer candidate is already familiar with Agile processes, he or she will likely fit in better with your company’s workflow, enhancing overall productivity.
10. Knowledge of Android UI and UX Design
A good Android developer should master the principles of both User Interface and User Experience design. They should be able to develop applications that are not only pleasing to the eye but are also user-friendly.
It would be hard to work with a candidate who does not understand the importance of both UI and UX. That’s where the magic is in developing effective and catchy products.
Read More: Guide To Hire Kotlin Developers
Steps to Hire Android Developers
Certain people who may have the desired working skills may not be considered especially if they do not fit the required skill set.
At the end of this section, it is the hope of this guide to demonstrate, in a structured sequence, the way by which the screening of an Android developer resume is to be done in order that you may direct your interviewing effort on the right candidates. Below are simple steps for how to hire Android app developers.
1. Define the Job Requirements
However, prior to such a shelling of resumes, one should first determine what sort of an Android developer is required. This consists of a common skill set in working with Java, knowledge in Android SDK and understanding of UI and UX design.
If that is not a technical requirement, then you may wish to think about some of the softer skills that may be desirable, for example communication and collaboration for a team project.
2. Create a Screening Checklist
It should be developed from relevant qualifications and skill points identified in the job description. This way this can give a clear structure by which resumes and qualifications can be evaluated for aptitude. Some elements may include the following criteria :
- Java and Android SDK requirement
- UI design principles are widely known across web designers.
- Introduction to RESTful API as well as JSON.
- Strong communication skills
3. Use AI-Powered Tools
AI technologies in screening resumes may also be adopted in order to increase the effectiveness of the screening process. The platforms designed by an AI development company work independently comparing resumes’ keywords to the criteria you provided. All you can do is input the needed skill set into an AI system and, lo and behold, one gets to know all those who fit the bill. Thus, while you will be free to interview the best candidates, lots of time may be saved.
4. Review Resumes
When it is time to start reviewing resumes, take that checklist and start appraising the candidates in order. Look at what information they include as to their technical skills and their prior experience. Search for any keyword linked to your job description and write down any development or application that they have completed.
5. Assess Soft Skills
Therefore technical competency cannot be completely disregarded but soft competencies should not be underestimated. Emphasize that an ability to properly communicate and work with a team can become a strong advantage helping to reach the goals of a project.
In assessing those who have finished a resume, the signs of good communication where the person has formed part of a team project or is conversant with team work should be selected.
6. Scoring and Shortlisting of Candidates
After you have appraised them, grade each candidate against each of the criteria listed on your checklist. Those candidates who are in a position to meet most of your needs should be scheduled for an interview.
You might then cross a candidate but if they seem quite good but you know they are short in a few areas then perhaps you qualify them as a “Maybe” and there is room for talk during the interview.
7. Interview Candidates
After short-listing the candidates, go to the next process which is the interviewing stage. Ask questions which not only explore their business domain knowledge but ask them about how they would approach a new problem with their business in light of emergent new technologies.
This also serves the additional purpose of discussing their previous working experience and how it shall be applied to your particular project.
How Much Does it Cost To Hire Android App Developers?
It is a focus of interest whether considered from the business angle or for an entrepreneur in this ever evolving mobile application market with a focus on Android development.
Since Android contradicts the largest part of the sales shares of the smartphones, a demand for experienced developers in Android is increased.
However, in this journey of hiring an Android developer, one common and burning question often arises: how much does it cost to hire an Android developer?
Factors Affecting the Cost of Hiring an Android App Developer
As we discuss the actual quantifiable indices, it is crucial to be aware of this or that point affecting the price of hiring an Android developer. The total cost depends upon a number of criteria that include:
1. Location
To some extent, it is a developer’s rate limiting step. While analyzing the rates, one needs to understand that developers in North America or Western Europe, for instance, will request and ask for more money per hour than it is expected from a developer from Eastern Europe, Asia, or Latin America. This might be attributed to what a given region costs and the demand often seen in many firms for technology expertise.
2. Level of Experience
The other important factor is the experience level of the developer developer experience level. In general it is quite cheaper to hire a junior developer who has less experience, which is usually those that have been in the field for less than 3 years as opposed to recruiting a senior developer with lots of experience and great portfolio in Android development.
Seasoned developers who may be more competent may be able to deliver more value towards the quality of your project due to their skill and knowledge as such they charge high fees.
- Junior Developers: By having them in their reach, they get a margin of $25 – $50 per hour.
- Mid-Level Developers: They may decide to charge any fee ranging from $50 to $100 per each service offering.
- Senior developers: In higher-ranked positions, expect to pay per hour anywhere from $100 to $200 and upward depending on the skill level of the workers.
3. Type of Employment
Indeed, there exists a clear relationship between the cost and the type of employment arrangement in the organization. Hiring a full time employee costs substantial money whereas a freelance developer or a development agency are very expensive.
- Freelancers: They may bill by hour or by work, so they are rather more cost-effective for less demanding tasks than self-employed or freelance full-time business people.
- In-House Developers: Larger overhead costs associated with benefits, equipment and space.
- Development Agencies: These may cost a bit more but mostly come with a team of developers and additional resources. This could result in the delivery of the project within a shorter time frame than expected.
4. Project Complexity
The complexity of your project will further influence the cost. Of course, a basic application without too many impressive features needs less time and expertise to develop than some sophisticated apps with advanced integrations, polished look, and feel, for instance.
When discussing estimates with your potential developers, make sure to give as many details about your requirements for their more accurate estimation.
5. Technology Stack and Tools
Your technology stack and overall requirements may drive up or bring down the costs of developing an Android app. Where projects require new, specialized, or leading technologies and/or toolsets, which would demand an even greater amount of skills and effort, you might see high charges for skilled developers with that skill.
Average Costs of Hiring an Android Developer
Therefore, considering some of the factors that were discussed above, some of the average costs for hiring Android developers could look as follows:
Freelance Developers
- Junior: $25-$50 per hour
- Mid-Level: $50-$100 per hour
- Senior: $100-$200+ per hour
In-House Developers
- Junior: $50,000-$70,000 yearly
- Mid-Level: $70,000-$120,000 per year
- Senior: $120,000-$180,000+ per year
Development Agencies
A specific estimate depending on the software development company and field of expertise reputation- somewhere between $25-250 per hour.
Other Costs to Consider While estimating the cost of an Android developer, it is important to consider extra costs that may arise in the process of development:
- Project Management: The project could be simple or complex. In the case of the latter, you may also need a project manager to oversee the entire project, which will add to your total cost.
- Quality Assurance: Smoothening out the application for complete bug-free running will require dedicated QA testing-which, again, results in added personnel costs.
- Maintenance and Updates: Your application, upon going live, will need continuous maintenance and updates, which also require budgeting.
- Marketing and Launch: Finally, come marketing expenses for your app and preparatory measures toward the launch.
Learn More: Cost to Develop an App in 2025
Engagement Models You Can Consider for Hiring Android App Developers
The first thing you should understand while taking a step to hire an Android app developer is the concept of various engagement models available. Not only will it help you outline the structure of your collaboration, but it also guarantees that your deal is exactly what will perfectly meet the requirements of your project and the big picture of your business objectives.
The section below highlights a few of these models, each with their unique benefits and considerations.
1. Hourly Rate Model
You pay the Android developers in this model for the actual hours worked on your project. It is one of the beneficial engagement options for projects where the scope is changing with time or may change over some time. You can deploy developers for any number of hours, be it four hours a day or ten hours a week, as per your needs. The flexibility means one can scale up or down the resources as required, hence being an attractive option for dynamic projects.
2. Fixed Price Model
In the Fixed Price Model, you and the development team agree upon a fixed price for the entire project, which is determined by the scope and requirements of the project. This model will be ideal for projects where specifications are well defined with least or no changes anticipated in the course of its implementation. You will get certainty over costs with a fixed budget, which could definitely enable better financial planning. However, this model is likely to pose a challenge to projects whose requirements are constantly evolving because any such necessary alterations might invite renegotiations and extra costs.
3. Dedicated Team Model
The Dedicated Team Model provides a team of Android developers who will exclusively work for your project and for which you pay a monthly fee for the team’s service. It allows flexibility, much as scaling. The model fits those long-term projects that include continuous development, maintenance, and support. You will have an advantage with a dedicated team due to better communication, deeper knowledge of your project, and one logic in development. This model really promotes a better partnership and, in most cases, ensures higher quality.
4. Outsourcing Model
In the Outsourcing Model, the whole Android app development is outsourced to a third-party merchant or an offshore development team. The model offers great advantages in cost optimization and acquiring special skills that are not available within the premises of your company. However, effective communication and proper project management will be required to achieve alignment with your goals and expectations. In the process of selecting an outsourcing partner, checks on expertise and reliability need consideration to mitigate potential risks.
5. Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Model
The BOT Model means that a third-party vendor develops and operates an Android app on your behalf for a certain fixed period before transferring ownership to your organization. This model proves especially attractive in those scenarios when companies would like to enter new markets or make use of somebody else’s experience for temporary use. Through the BOT model, you will get the advantage of the experience and resources of the vendor while gaining full control over the project and results.
6. Hybrid Model
The Hybrid Model fuses different engagement models that enable it to work precisely with your project requirements. For example, one could start off with the fixed price model during initial development for which there is a pretty clear idea about scope and budget, then proceed to a dedicated team model when ongoing maintenance and support become critical. Equally valuable, this adaptability can be tailored to the demands of a project’s life cycle and enable you to respond promptly and effectively either to a change in the requirements or to market conditions.
Explore More: How to Hire iOS Developers
Hire Android App Developers: Factors That You Must Consider
1. Experience
When it comes to Android app development, experience is the most crucial factor. You need to ensure that the hiring developers have relevant experience developing Android apps. Examine their portfolio to get a sense of the types of apps they’ve created in the past. You may also check reviews and ratings to get a sense of how good their work is?
2. Cost
The cost of hiring Android app developers depends on various factors, such as the size of the team, the number of hours they will be working on your project, and their experience. Make sure you get an estimate from the developers before hiring them. You can also compare the cost of different developers to get the best deal.
3. Timeline
The timeline is another essential factor you need to consider before hiring Android app developers. Make sure you have a clear idea about the deadline of your project. You need to ensure that the hiring developers can complete the project within the given timeline.
4. Communication
Communication is a must-have element when it comes to Android app development. You need to ensure that the hiring developers can communicate effectively with you.
It is essential to have a clear idea about your requirements before starting the project. This will help the developers understand your needs better and deliver the project according to your expectations.
Read more: Top Reasons Why Android Is So Popular For Mobile App Development
5. Location
The location of the developers is also an essential factor to consider. If you want to save money, you can opt for developers in countries like India, where living costs are low. Android app developers in India rates are much lower than in developed countries like the US.
However, you need to ensure that the developers you hire are located in a country with a more negligible time zone difference. This will help you communicate effectively with the team.
You need to consider these essential factors before hiring Android app developers. Keep these factors in mind to hire the best remote developers for your project.
Why Hire Android App Developers From India?
When it comes to Android development it is evident that the kind of developer you hire can greatly affect the results of your app project. In this market that is as competitive as the Indian one, it becomes quite clear as to why many people become employers of recourse Android app developers from this nation.
Here, we will showcase how hiring Android app developers from India actually makes good business sense, the cost structure, and how to go about selecting your developer.
1. A Large Pool of Talent
India is a prominent player in the world market for applications development. In the subcontinent, Android is clearly on top with over 90 percent market share of operating systems available. This makes India one of the best places to look for qualified Android app developers.
Currently, there are large numbers of app developers in India, who have gained a lot of experience in Android development, with universities in regional and the Indian Institute of Technology turning out great talent. Indeed, 24% of the Android developers had 0-2 years of experience while 42% had worked for between 2 and 5 years.
2. Cost-Effective Solutions
Of course everyone wants to save money and that is why online shopping is quickly becoming a favourite pastime of everyone. The most obvious benefit of outsourcing Android app development to India for business owners is the lower price for hiring an app developer.
As evidenced by other research it can be seen that IT professionals, particularly developers, are cheaper in India than in the United States or Europe. This makes it possible to better distribute your budget, perhaps, for instance, increasing spending on marketing or extra additional options in the application.
In addition, hiring offshore Android app developers may prove to be cost effective for the long term. Thus flexibility coupled with competitive price and quality, it’s not a surprise that lots of businesses have flocked to India looking for their Android specialists.
3. Access to a Wide Range of Services
Starting from the idea of the application up to its implementation and deployment, Android developers based in India provide full service. Regardless of whether you are planning to hire mobile app developers in India or you seek only some help in terms of work, you will find many choices at your disposal.
Do you need Wearable app development support? No problem! Wearable app developers in India are experienced in designing and developing new wearable technologies for clubs.
Also, dozens of app developers in India provide app support and maintenance services, which help to keep your app current and working in the post-launch period. This kind of end-to-end service just helps to ease through this process.
4. Flexible Hiring Options
Employment of Android app developers in India presents a number of possibilities for flexibility. You can decide to employ native Android application developers, outsource from independent skilled Android app developers or even employ an entire team from an Android app development company.
It also means you can increase or reduce the number of developers you work with depending on the specific project. What is more, you can address Android programmers in India as a team for a particular project or work with them on a regular basis.
5. Time Zone Advantage
Even though there is a time zone difference it can be advantageous to some people thinking that they can get away easily. Offshore Android developers working with you can make it possible for you to develop something when you go to sleep and get it worked on when you wake up.
This can help to shorten the amount of time it takes for the project to be completed thus having your app in the market. Also, using today’s technologies, it is very convenient to be connected with your staff in India.
6. Shared values and the use of the same language
India has been serving global clients for decades now and hence the Indian developers are always culturally sensitive. They have had prior experience on how to work with multicultural teams and therefore are very sensitive to such matters as business etiquette around the world.
Moreover, the common language in India is English and so there can hardly be a language barrier. This makes it seamless to hire Android app developers from India who can effectively collaborate with your team.
7. Focus on Innovation
Indian developers are known for their innovative approach to problem-solving. The tech industry in India is constantly evolving, and developers are encouraged to think outside the box.
When you hire Android app developers in India, you’re not just getting a coder, but someone who can bring new ideas to the table. This innovative mindset can be a game-changer for your app, helping it stand out in a crowded market.
8. Success Stories and Reputation
India has a strong reputation in the tech world, with many successful startups and tech companies originating from the country. By hiring top Android developers in India, you’re tapping into this rich ecosystem of innovation and success. Companies like ScalaCode, Infosys, TCS, and Wipro have set a high standard, proving that Indian developers are capable of delivering high-quality work on a global scale.
Conclusion
This guide has discussed the different options for hire Android app developers. We have also looked at the factors you need to consider before deciding. Now that you know about the different options, it is time to choose the best choice for your project. Consider your budget, timeline, and requirements before making a decision.
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