Introduction to Mobile App Testing
If I say there was a time when software testing was considered an afterthought, will you believe me? Today, mobile app testing is kept high regarding mobile app development. You see, for most businesses, apps have become their face, their brand, and their reputation, and one of the easiest ways to get business done with customers. There are times when customers tend to delete the app right after it is installed because it doesn’t meet their expectations. At the same time, even those mobile apps are removed that consume more memory or are pretty slow to operate.
Mobile application development is a pretty time-consuming process, error-prone and expensive. I mean you cannot and shouldn’t take it for granted at all. That’s the reason why mobile app testing is a must-do thing. In the end, you are bound to develop satisfactory apps, meet predetermined user expectations, and offer a flawless user experience.
As the name implies, mobile application testing is the process experienced and knowledgeable mobile app testers tend to have a detailed check on the functionalities, usability, stability, performance, and security of the developed app right before the final launch. Moreover, they ensure to development of an app that is not just robust but quite scalable as well.
Types of Mobile Testing
● Usability Testing
● Compatibility Testing
● Performance Testing
● Interface Testing
● Operational Testing
● Security Testing
● Functional Testing
● Installation Testing
● Storage Testing
The Need for Mobile App Testing
Source Link : https://thebossmagazine.com/fundamentals-of-mobile-application-testing/
Identify and Fix Potential Bugs
With proper mobile app testing, identifying bugs and security issues is quite possible, and that too before it is released worldwide. The mobile application is supposed to be tested across different devices, operating systems, and network conditions. So that if there is any chance of a crash, the app getting stuck, or poor performance, it is identified and fixed right then and there. This saves a lot of time and enhances the overall app quality exceeding the expectations of the end user.
Ensure the app works on different devices and platforms
The next benefit or need for conducting mobile app testing is to make sure that the developed app works wonders across a wide range of devices and platforms. Compatibility issues are pretty common and must be well taken care of.
You see, much like mobile apps, different devices are being launched day in and day out so the correct working of the app is very important, irrespective of the platform.
Ensures features work correctly resulting in the best user experience
With proper mobile app testing, it is possible to enhance user experience to a great extent. You see in today’s times when there are a plethora of options available for everything, the attention span of the end user is pretty short. This means all you have got is a three-second window where you can attract your end users. This means you need to excel in every aspect from navigation to slow loading times, eye-appealing products, and quick responsiveness.
Mobile app testing is really important and it can promote user engagement and retention. Above all, the worst nightmare of abandoning the app will be completely gone.
Continuous process to keep up with user needs
When you keep on checking regularly or testing regularly, it assists in identifying new bugs and issues. It is not necessary if there are no bugs or issues during the launch of the app, it won’t pop up later on. You never know these issues or bugs can be introduced pretty later on during an updation or introduction of new features.
Mobile app development is a continuous process even after the app is launched, maintenance, and support. Also, app development firms are highly required to keep up with the changing user needs and demands which ultimately results in high user satisfaction. Overall, mobile app testing is important to maintain the stability and sturdiness of the app.
Best Practices for Mobile App Testing
#1 Scope of Testing
This might be a bit basic and overlooked but it isthe QA best practices to takeinto account while conducting a mobile app testing project. Now there are different types of mobile app testers available, and some of them focus on the background. So first and foremost is to determine the solid scope of testing.
#2 Test Early and Often
The next best practice to consider while conducting any mobile app testing project is to test early and often. Having a test-driven approach is quite bliss where an application is tested right from the early stages and at different milestones so that in the end it is possible to develop quite a stable and reliable application. You see nowadays software testing process is pretty much in vogue which means ample time and effort are saved.
#3 Invest in Usability Testing
Usability testing is a pretty detailed procedure that is done to ensure that the application developed is suitable for the end user’s needs and demands. This form of testing enables developers to have some valuable insights regarding how they can maintain user’s interests and attract more in a short time. However, it doesn’t mean functionality testing, security testing, and performance testing aren’t that important.
#4 Focus on Real-time devices
The next practice to consider is focusing on real-time devices. No matter how much emulator or simulator testing you do, you have to pan up to testing on real devices. Now this is possible by using cloud platforms such as Browserstack which is quite cost-effective and quite a popular choice among mobile app testers.
#5 Get a Superb Mobile App Testing Team
Last but certainly not least is to come up with an exclusive and experienced team of software testers or mobile app testers. Now this is extremely important, you see hiring a reliable mobile app development company means you have almost won the battle because they won’t play either with your reputation or theirs.
Top Mobile App Testing Challenges
1. Device Fragmentation
One of the biggest challenges faced by mobile app developers across the globe is device fragmentation. Now testing automation needs to be done across various devices, screen sizes, resolutions, and operating systems which eventually results in severe challenges that can hinder user experience as well as the overall functionality of the mobile app.
In simple words, we know numerous types of devices are available in the market featuring different aspects in terms of screen sizes, resolutions, and hardware specifications. It becomes nearly next to impossible for developers to test on every device available.
Well here I would like to mention certain ways to tackle device fragmentation
● Know your target audience
● Use responsive design and adaptive layout
● Test your app on multiple devices and emulators
● Device detection and feature detection
● Follow best practices and guidelines
2. Compatibility
The next challenge that needs to be addressed successfully is compatibility. We all seek compatibility. If you are looking for a life partner a tech partner or someone to have amazing coffee with, compatibility needs to be paramount. In the tech world, it is said that compatibility is the spice of life. There are multiple platforms and Oses available and each one is of a kind and different range of quirks and preferences. So look around for a reputable mobile app development company where you can find unique Mobile app testers who are maеstros and have successfully mastеred thе intricaciеs like none other. Performance has to be harmonious at all stages.
3. Network Issues
Users access mobile applications via different networks. Yes, even today 3G, and 4G networks are pretty much in use. In other words, network issues are bound to happen. And this surely can hamper the overall performance of the app. So mobile app testers are required to test apps on different networks to ensure that the developed app performs amazingly.
4. Security
Another concern is high-end security. Imagine what if you have developed an app that can be seamlessly impenetrable by hackers? What would you do other than grieve later on? Simply, conduct proper security assessments such as penetration tests so that there is no scope for any kind of villainous exploits.
Whether you are a creator or a user, data instructions could be your worst nightmare. This happens due to overlooked vulnerabilities acting as severe loopholes ensuring open invitation to criminals all across the globe.
For proper combat, rigorous testing methods must be taken well into consideration. Mobile app testers need to identify and fix potential weak spots ensuring that the app works successfully despite malicious intent.
5. Battery Consumption
Last but certainly not least is battery consumption. Mobile devices as well as apps keep evolving. This surely depletes the battery rapidly. So when excessive power is consumed, the user gets alarmed and automatically uninstalls the app. So as a mobile app tester, one needs to identify resource-hungry code and optimize the app power management. One must know that battery efficiency is as important as the app’s overall functionality.
In a Nutshell
And this is all for now! I hope the following post was of some help and I assure you once you start using these best practices, you will be able to create an app that can easily ascend to new heights, something extraordinary rather than just delivering a clone to your competitors. These mobile app development best practices and challenges will act as a solid compass to ensure that the app shines brightly.
An expert on R&D, Online Training and Publishing. He is M.Tech. (Honours) and is a part of the STG team since inception.