iOS vs Android: Which Platform Should UK Businesses Choose First?

Choosing between iOS and Android for your first mobile app launch is one of the most critical decisions UK businesses face. While developing for both platforms simultaneously seems ideal, budget constraints often force entrepreneurs to pick just one initially.

The UK Mobile Market Landscape

In the UK, the mobile market split is relatively balanced, with Android holding approximately 52% market share and iOS commanding 47%. This near-even split makes the platform decision more nuanced than in markets with clear winners.

London vs Regional Preferences London and the Southeast show a slight iOS preference, particularly among higher-income demographics. Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds have stronger Android adoption rates, especially in younger demographics and price-conscious segments.

Revenue Potential by Platform

Despite similar user numbers, iOS users in the UK typically generate 60-70% more revenue per user than Android users. This is particularly pronounced in sectors like finance, productivity, and premium lifestyle apps.

App Store vs Google Play Performance UK iOS users are more likely to pay for apps upfront, while Android users prefer freemium models with in-app purchases. If your monetisation strategy relies on premium pricing, iOS often provides better initial returns.

Development Considerations for UK Developers

iOS Development Advantages Developing for iOS means targeting fewer device variations, making testing more manageable. The UK has high iPhone adoption among business professionals, making iOS ideal for B2B applications. Apple's strict review process also means less competition from low-quality apps.

Android Development Benefits Android offers greater flexibility in app distribution, including the ability to distribute outside Google Play. The platform provides better integration with Google services, which many UK businesses rely on heavily. Development costs can be lower due to more available Android developers.

Industry-Specific Recommendations

Financial Services and FinTech iOS first, given the platform's strong adoption among high-income UK users and superior security perception.

E-commerce and Retail Consider Android first for broader market reach, especially if targeting price-conscious consumers outside London.

Healthcare and Professional Services iOS typically delivers better engagement rates among UK professionals and healthcare workers.

Entertainment and Gaming Android's larger user base can provide more downloads, but iOS users spend more on in-app purchases.

The Hybrid Approach

Many successful UK apps now launch with cross-platform solutions using React Native or Flutter. This approach adds 20-30% to development costs but allows simultaneous launch on both platforms, maximising market opportunity from day one.

Your platform choice should align with your target audience's preferences, your monetisation strategy, and your available budget. For most UK businesses, understanding your specific customer demographics matters more than general market statistics.