Introduction
Mobile apps require unique considerations when designing interfaces and interactions. As Anatomy continues to develop, expect more specific and tailored guidance.
For now, we recommend using the type of app and audience to determine how to design with Anatomy, Apple Human Interface Guidelines, and Material Design.
Who is my audience?
Knowing your audience is crucial for creating effective experiences and information architecture. Boston Scientific apps are usually built for healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, or internal employees. The audience defines the approach to design, language, and visual emphasis of certain components, such as the app header.
If you are building a cross-platform app, consider if there will be a majority of either iOS or Android users.
App frameworks
What is a mobile app?
There are two main categories of mobile apps: native and cross-platform. A native app is built specifically for either iOS or Android devices. A cross-platform app is a single codebase that supports both iOS and Android devices.
View our decision flowchart for more information if you’re unsure about which app framework to use or which set of design guidelines to follow.
Operating and design systems
iOS
iOS is the mobile operating system for Apple’s mobile devices, including the iPhone.
Apple Human Interface Guidelines
Apple Human Interface Guidelines is the design system built for iOS devices.
Android
Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google. Android is the operating system for Google, HTC, and Samsung mobile devices.
Google Material
Google Material is Google’s open-source design system built for Android. It is a comprehensive resource that defines interactions, visual design, and components. It is the most common UI library for Android devices, although there are many more to choose from.