iOS Developer

What the job involves

An iOS developer designs and writes apps for iPhone and iPad. They turn a designer's mockups into working screens, connect the app to a server through an API, store data on the device, watch speed and stability, fix bugs and prepare releases for the App Store. Apple's platform sets high standards for interface polish, so the job involves a lot of attention to detail and to how convenient the app is for the user.

Skills you need

• the Swift language and the basics of object-oriented programming
• SwiftUI and the classic tools for building interfaces
• the app lifecycle and navigation between screens
• networking, APIs and local storage
• Git and teamwork on a shared codebase
• an understanding of Apple's interface design principles
• patience when debugging and testing on different devices

How to start and learn

Learn the basics of programming and the Swift language, then build a few simple apps and try SwiftUI. Add network requests and a database, and bring one project to a tidy state on GitHub. The course assumes some basic knowledge of programming, so a beginner should first learn the fundamentals. Development usually requires a Mac, which is worth planning for in advance. Entry into the profession usually goes through a junior position or an internship.

Where they work

In Armenia iOS developers work in startups and product companies, mobile development studios, banks and fintech projects, and as freelancers. Knowing iOS combines well with an understanding of Android, and mobile teams value that combination.