How do you create a location-based app?

Want to create location-based apps? Let’s dig deeper into it. The mobile-based technology is constantly getting updated every year and also the users can expect more new features to add to their mobile application.

Anyone can build an app easily but not everyone can reach success at all times.

The app with geolocation can have plenty of benefits for the users; it can help to detect the people’s current exact location. The geolocation app has become a backbone for many industries and businesses.

Image source: google

Most app development companies are focusing on creating the user to get the best experience, the features of the geolocation help to provide a robust solution for the users.

Mobile app development is an increasingly popular field. It’s what’s being taught in colleges, and it’s what’s being asked for on the job market.

When most people think of mobile app development, they think of programming in Swift or Java and using frameworks like Xamarin.

But mobile app development isn’t just about programming.

Knowing how to make a location-based mobile app development is a valuable

Do Research About Your Idea

If you are going to create an app with geolocation you need to do some general research about your idea, it can help you to know about how it can reach people.

Then you should research the competitors in the market, so you can get some clear thoughts it will make you develop your app better.

Build a Wireframe for Your Geolocation App

After completing the research you get some ideas then you can have a better plan for your creating app.

Next, you need to bring all your thoughts and ideas into reality, you can discuss with your app development team and write those ideas and develop a storyboard.

Create GPS app MVP

Next step you need to create a minimum variable product to estimate your idea at a minimum amount. You can also receive feedback from the users; from this, you can also have some better ideas to create a successful app.

Create a Features Rich Map-Based App

After receiving the user feedback, then you state the second development stage so you can also create or add some other important features to your app.

Which Technology helps to develop location-based apps?

Google Maps

It is difficult to discuss ‘location’ without thinking of maps, and the most famous of them is Google Maps. This app helps in detecting and showing a user’s current location with the help of geolocation functions and trackers. Mobile applications such as Uber and Lyft rely on this app for their geolocation services.

1. Maps

The Google Maps API allows the incorporation of maps to applications. Maps also make sure that you are able to change the display with an embedded panoramic view.

The functionality of Maps-

• Maps SDK — Maps SDK allows automatic access to Google servers, response to map actions, and downloads.
• Maps JavaScript API — this distinctive API allows developers to add custom graphic content on their devices and web platforms. The JavaScript API consists of four customizable map categories: satellite, roadmap, terrain, and hybrid.
• Maps Embed API — With this great API, you can add an interactive map to your website with a basic HTTP request. The Maps Embed API differs from the JavaScript API because you can customize it without any Javascript experience.
• Maps Static API — this API allows you to add any Google Maps graphic to your website without dynamic page loading. All you need is to send an HTTP request, which returns a match you can display on your platform.
• Street View Static API — this API gives you access to updated real-life representations of locations. You can embed the API as a thumbnail on your site.
• Maps URLs — this tool generates a cross-platform link that can obtain directions and display panoramic views.

1. Routes

This API allows access to accurate directions and active routes for given locations on the map. You can also use this tool to monitor real-time traffic updates about route congestion and accidents.

• Directions API — with the Google Maps Direction API, you can get directions as per your preferred mode of transportation. The service also calculates the distance between locations via an HTTP request generated from user inputs.
• Roads API — this tool provides specific data on traveled roads, like speed limits and alternate routes.
• Distance Matrix API — this service calculates the distance between waypoints on a map and the time required to cover it. The Google Distance Matrix API works in conjunction with the Directions API to provide accurate estimates on departure and arrival times.

1. Places

The Places API allows users to access more than 100 million locations. It also enables users to find places using GPS addresses and phone numbers. The photo location finder users can also take advantage of this API for outdoor and indoor navigation.

• Geocoding API — this service converts long, physical addresses into geographical altitudes and coordinates (latitudes and longitudes). The feature allows users to place a point on the app and get the full address.
• Geolocation API — this effective geolocation tool pings cell towers and uses the information to provide a location within a defined perimeter.
• Time Zone API — this interface enables users to find out the different time zones of locations worldwide. This API provides the time zone and the current time in UTC and day-light savings.
• Places Library — this API enables applications to search for locations and prominent landmarks. The auto-complete features offer relevant suggestions for a better user experience.

Mapbox

Mapbox is another map service provider and a close rival to Google Maps. Mapbox partners with Facebook, CNN, AllTrails, Shopify, and other top-notch companies.

The functionality of Mapbox-

• Maps services — with Maps services, developers can work with customizable maps generated from multiple sources. This feature also allows the creation of dynamic and static maps. You can also choose your application’s preferred theme view: light, dark, streets, outdoor, and satellite.
• Navigation services — this tool generates accurate real-time routes for users. Navigation services also include intuitive turn-by-turn navigation and traffic-aware routing.
• Geocoding API — this API provides data on a device’s geolocation.
• Mapbox Studio — this service features an independent ecosystem for designers to create and manage geolocation data. The interface allows developers to explore their creativity to come up with fantastic map designs.

TomTom

TomTom is another location-aware tool for the creation of location apps. TTomTom has worked with Microsoft, Michelin, Precisely, Trivago, and other companies around the world.

Functionality of TomTom-

• Maps API — the Map Display API offers access to the Raster and Vector API. You can choose the preferable end-point that is most suitable for your application.
• Routing API — this API is an advanced routing engine for users. The tool generates up-to-date info on routes.
• Search API — this feature works in conjunction with Foursquare to return info about locations based on search queries. The Search API also uses pinpoint geocoding technology for app location-based features.
• Traffic API — this API combines real-time and well-known heavy traffic data for improved location detection.

Cost to build Location Based App Development

Cost to build a basic geolocation-based app costs $10,000-$35,000 approximately. Medium complexity apps will cost between $90,000-$160,000. The cost may vary depending on the various factors such as features, platforms, developer’s cost, development hours, etc. To estimate the exact cost you can also use a cost calculator of the app service provided by us.