Mobile testing, also called mobile responsive tests, is one of the key steps in developing a high quality product. Even tough mobile app testing and mobile page tests can be performed using tools available online, it is always better to rely on professionals who use real devices. Why is this so important in the context of a mobile page test?
What is mobile testing?
According to recent studies, most users already only view websites on mobile devices. This means that no piece of software should be any less well-developed for mobile than its desktop counterpart. The only way to effectively check the product’s Android or iOS functionality is to perform mobile testing. But what is mobile testing?
Let us begin by defining what mobile application testing and mobile site tests are. As is the case with computer software, all mobile software ought also be thoroughly tested for any glitches. The best way to ensure effective mobile friendly tests, is to hire professionals. Mobile testing primarily focuses on:
- Whether the app or site functions properly on the newest systems
- Functionality on older versions
An app which functions properly on the freshest system is without a doubt a great success. However, mobile app testing compatibility with older systems is just as important. As a developer can never be sure what devices and systems our users will be using.
Why is mobile testing so crucial?
A mobile friendly test should be an integral part of any software development process. Products intended for mobile devices are subject to many risks. While performing mobile website tests and mobile app testing, a tester should consider that:
- Mobile devices are still significantly less powerful than computers
- Mobile devices vary in terms of hardware which plays a large role in mobile application testing
- Mobile screens are much smaller than PC monitors
- An app should not interfere with the phone’s key functionalities, like receiving calls.
- There is more variation in terms of operating systems on mobile devices.
- Mobile software gets outdated more quickly.
- Mobile devices have multiple ways of connecting to a network
- Mobile testing tools vary in the case of sites and apps
- Mobile devices use a centralized input system (touchscreen instead of mouse and keyboard)
At Testpring, expert testers consider all the above mentioned factors to test mobile optimization. Mobile responsive tests are only a small branch of our mobile app testing services.
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Automating mobile app testing and mobile site tests vs. using real devices
Due to the increasing amount of mobile apps and sites requiring testing, the demand for high-quality QA and testing also increases. Every team of testers has a limit in terms of the available time and human resources. Mobile friendly tests can be performed on real devices. The latter option might be tempting if times becomes an issue. But automated mobile testing is not always the quickest and easiest solution. Using simulators to perform mobile website testing and mobile app testing does have both benefits and drawbacks.
The biggest drawback to using automated mobile application testing tools is the devices’ system diversity. Every version of Android and iOS requires a separate test, which increases the time required for the entire process significantly. Additionally, using simulators does not test the effect of hardware on the app’s performance.
In order to test mobile optimization effectively, it is also necessary to consider the constant development of the mobile app market. Each new trend means a change in the shape of the products. Automatic mobile app testing tools should (unfortunately) be updated with every interface and functionality change. Such frequent updates would take an exceptionally long time and be very ineffective.
One of the basic goals of mobile testing sites and apps is to check how intuitive they are. Every product needs to be optimized for a specific target group. Unfortunately, automated mobile testing tools can not test this aspect. Despite the constant development of automated testing tools, they are still not human, and cannot judge the comfort of using a particular software.
A Google mobile test– is it enough?
A mobile friendly test can be performed in a web browser. One of the tools allowing this to happen is the Google mobile test – PageSpeed Insights. This solution might seem tempting. That brings us to its drawbacks. The most significant, is the lack of solutions to the problems. The mobile testing software can find glitches; however, finding them is only the beginning.
That’s why hiring experts at Testspring is much more effective. We only use real devices to test mobile applications. We specialize in both detection and resolution of issues. We can help you reach your quality goals quicker, easier and better.