Carriers, networks, devices… Testing mobile apps presents many challenges, which is why automating certain tests may be necessary. But which tests should be automated to maximize profitability and improve quality?
The rapidly evolving mobile app market is attracting more and more companies. Within three years, its revenue could even triple, rising from $170 billion in 2021 to nearly $613 billion in 2025. But the biggest challenge is successfully satisfying today’s consumers, who demand a high-quality, seamless experience. It’s important to note that nearly 25% of mobile apps are used only once before being abandoned. The reasons cited include too many bugs, crashes, and slow loading times.
But how can you ensure that you’re developing a mobile app that meets users’ needs? The answer is simple: test, test, and test some more. However, with different operating systems (iOS, Android), different carriers, different smartphone models, and network connection issues, testing a mobile app can be complex. The solution? Implement a solid testing strategy and consider automation, which saves time on recurring and repetitive tests.
Which tests should be automated for a mobile app?
As with websites, it is not necessary to automate all mobile app tests. You should prioritize the most common tests, such as unit tests, integration tests, and end-to-end tests.
>> Unit Tests
These are tests that allow a developer to verify their code at the level of the component they are building, by testing individual features. For example, in the case of authentication, a unit test can be run to verify that the “Log In” button works as expected. These tests can be easily automated to run every time the code is deployed to a platform.
>> Integration Tests
These are tests used to ensure that the various components of a software application function properly once integrated and produce the expected results. To stick with the authentication example, an integration test can verify that the message sent after clicking the “Log In” button is successfully received by the authentication server.
>> End-to-end testing
End-to-end tests are used to verify that the application behaves as expected from start to finish and generally focus on critical features that generate revenue.
Let’s take the example of a mobile app for an insurance company. The test case could involve viewing a user’s auto insurance policy. The end-to-end scenario will be used to verify: launching the app, displaying the login page by clicking the “Log In” button, entering the PIN using the numeric keypad, accessing the policy dashboard, and then viewing the details of the auto insurance policy.
The advantage of automating end-to-end testing is that it allows each scenario to be run more quickly than if a person were to perform the same steps, helps prevent human errors, and thus ensures the quality of the application while allowing teams to focus on other, higher-value tasks.
What about non-functional tests?
In addition to unit, integration, and end-to-end tests, it can also be useful to automate certain non-functional tests. Here are several types that should not be overlooked, especially on mobile devices:
Performance testing, to assess the application's performance in various situations—including when the connection is poor or the battery is low—by measuring response times when using different features.
Security testing, to verify that the application's data is properly secured and thus prevent it from being leaked.
Compatibility testing, to verify the application's performance and functionality across multiple devices and mobile platforms (smartphones, tablets, iOS/Android).
Suri-tip: The choice of which mobile tests to automate really depends on each company and each industry. If you need advice to help you develop your mobile app test automation strategy, Mr Suricate happy to offer you his expertise and services.
FAQ
Carriers, networks, devices… Testing mobile apps presents many challenges, which is why automating certain tests may be necessary. But which tests should be automated to maximize profitability and improve quality?
The rapidly evolving mobile app market is attracting more and more companies. Within three years, its revenue could even triple, rising from $170 billion in 2021 to nearly $613 billion in 2025. But the biggest challenge is successfully meeting the expectations of today’s consumers, who demand a high-quality, seamless experience.
Which tests should be automated for a mobile app?
As with websites, it is not necessary to automate all mobile app tests. You should prioritize the most common tests, such as unit tests, integration tests, and end-to-end tests.
What about non-functional tests?
In addition to unit, integration, and end-to-end tests, it may also be useful to automate certain non-functional tests.
Further Reading
To see the solution in action, check out our functional tests.
Take it a step further: mobile app testing.
