An iOS engineer is an engineer who creates systems and apps that run on iOS developed by Apple. The iPhone, which is widely recognized as a product of the company, is deeply popular both in Japan and overseas due to its brand power and development capabilities.
In this article, we will explain the job content of an iOS engineer, as well as annual income, prospects, and required skills.
table of contents
- 1What is an iOS engineer?
- 1What is an iOS engineer?
- 2iOS Engineer Jobs
- 3iOS engineer annual salary
- 2Strengths, demand, and prospects of iOS
- 1iOS used in many products
- 2Platform with large market size
- 3Future prospects predicted from the current situation
- 3iOS engineer job details
- 1App development that runs on iOS
- 2Troubleshooting
- 3front end development
- Four skills required for iOS engineers
- 1programming
- 2App development
- 3English skills
- Five to Become an iOS Engineer with No Experience
- 1[Question 1] What should I do first?
- 2[Question 2] How should I study?
- 3[Question 3] Is it necessary to obtain qualifications?
- 6summary
What is an iOS engineer?
First, let’s take a look at what an iOS engineer is. Find out about the type of work you will do, recruitment conditions, annual salary, etc.
What is an iOS engineer?
An iOS engineer is an engineer who develops systems and applications that run on iOS developed by Apple.
iOS is used in products developed and sold by Apple, including the iPhone, iPad, and Macintosh PCs. Apple’s official website “App Store” publishes apps that can be downloaded to devices.
There are approximately 1.8 million apps for business, SNS, games, shopping, entertainment, etc., and new ones are carefully reviewed and released every day.
Smartphones have another typical OS, Android. Android is an Android OS developed by Google and is installed on Android. It is the second most popular smartphone in Japan after the iPhone, and it is no exaggeration to say that it divides the market into two.
iOS Engineer Jobs
Due to the market size of Apple’s product line, there is a stable need for iOS engineer jobs. You can search for jobs using words such as “iOS engineer,” “iOS app engineer,” “iOS app development engineer,” and “iOS mobile app engineer.”
Since there is a shortage of engineers to meet market needs, it can be said that it is becoming easier to choose work styles. There are many cases where it is OK to work several days a week or only on weekdays. Depending on your work-from-home experience and experience, many jobs allow you to work fully remotely. Some companies even welcome people with no experience.
iOS engineer’s annual salary
Let’s take a look at the annual salary of an iOS engineer. According to Indeed, the average annual salary for iOS engineer jobs is 6.72 million yen (as of October 27, 2023). The average annual salary of IT engineers listed in the job box is 4.77 million yen (as of October 27, 2023), so you can see how high the average annual salary of iOS engineers is.
However, even among iOS engineers, annual income is a wide range. For job openings that welcome people with no experience, the average annual salary is 2.5 to 3 million yen. The average salary is 6.72 million yen, but it is also true that there are job openings with an annual income of over 10 million yen.
Job openings with an annual income of 13 to 15 million yen, which is even higher than that, require not only experience in developing your app but also management skills such as the ability to lead a team and carry out app development.
Job openings at major and well-known companies are rare, and depending on your ability, it is not impossible to be involved in large-scale projects or the development of generally well-known apps.
Strengths, demand, and prospects of iOS
Now that you know the job openings and annual salary for iOS engineers, let’s take a look at the strengths, demands, and prospects of iOS.
iOS is used in many products
iOS can be said to be the OS used in all Apple products. Specifically, it is used in the following products.
- Mac (computer)
- iPhone (smartphone)
- iPad (tablet)
- Apple Watch (smartwatch)
- AirPods (wireless headphones)
Nowadays, the penetration rate of smartphones is higher than that of PCs, and Apple is associated with the iPhone, but the company started manufacturing PCs in April 1976. In the 2000s, the iPod audio player became a worldwide hit, and the company continues to produce products that are one step ahead of the times.
Strictly speaking, only the iPhone OS can be called iOS. However, the operating systems used in other products, such as iPadOS, watchOS, and tvOS, belong to the same skill category as iOS app development. macOS is developed using Swift, so it can be said that it is compatible.
Platform with a large market size
Let’s take a look at the size of the market for iOS, which is used in Apple’s products. Here we will mainly focus on smartphones and look at the differences between the overseas and domestic markets.
overseas market
The iPhone is popular in Japan, but the situation is different when you look around the world. According to a survey by Aung Consulting released in February 2023, the global share of mobile OS is 72.37% for Android, followed by iOS at 26.98%. At first glance, there seems to be an overwhelming difference, but if you look at the regions, you will notice that there are differences.
In North America, including the United States, where Apple is headquartered, the market share of iOS is approximately 60%. In Europe, in addition to the UK, Switzerland, and Belgium, the share of iOS is also higher in Scandinavian countries such as Denmark and Norway, from the majority to around 70%.
In the Asia-Oceania region, Australia accounts for 57.08% and Taiwan accounts for 50.52%. Japan had the highest share in this survey at 67.11%. As a general trend, it can be said that the market share of iOS is high mainly in developed countries.
domestic market
According to a survey released in May 2022 by MMD Research Institute, a mobile-specialized research organization, the shares of iOS and Android have reversed in the domestic smartphone market. iPhone (iOS) has a 44.1% share, while Android has a 51.5% share.
Looking at it by generation, the share of Android increases as the age increases for both men and women. Android has the highest share among both men and women in their 60s.
On the other hand, iOS shows that the younger the age group, the higher the market share. The highest share of iOS among both men and women is among teenagers, with men at 70.1%. The share is higher among women than men, at 84.1% among teenagers and 70.2% among those in their 20s.
What I would like to note here is that most smartphones for seniors are Android, while younger people who are sensitive to trends and new things prefer iPhones.
Although there are differences in the survey results between overseas and domestic markets, I would like to add that the data for the overseas market is more recent.
Prospects predicted from the current situation
We have mainly looked at the share of smartphones by OS, but let’s also check the market size of smartphones themselves, that is, the number of units sold.
According to a study published by the American research company IDC in April 2023, the total number of smartphone shipments worldwide was 268.6 million units, a decrease of 14.6% from the previous year. While the top manufacturers are seeing a decline in unit shipments across the board, Apple is said to be doing well, having increased its market share, albeit slightly.
The second-hand market served as a receptacle for the negative market. Used smartphones with functions necessary for daily life are actively bought and sold on flea market apps and auctions, and the iPhone is said to be the most popular among them.
In addition, Apple has begun to focus on its content business with AppleTV. By expanding the business into hardware, software (apps), and content, management will become more stable.
iOS engineer job details
From here, let’s take a look at the specific job content of an iOS engineer.
App development that runs on iOS
App development is broadly divided into two types: native app development and web app development.
A native app is an app that runs on a specific platform. In other words, it refers to apps that are downloaded and used on devices like smartphones and tablets. A web app is an app that runs on the web without being installed on a device.
Generally, the work that iOS engineers do is the development of native apps, and the work scope covers a series of steps from requirements definition to design, development, testing, and release. However, there are some general-purpose parts of the development process, so keep in mind that the content of your work will vary depending on your workplace.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting is also part of an iOS engineer’s job. If a bug is found or reported in a released app, you must promptly fix it.
It is also the job of an iOS engineer to change specifications, such as adding or abolishing functions that accompany OS updates, and to respond to defects. Although this maintenance work is different from app development, it is an important work that is essential for users to continue using the app.
front end development
One of the important jobs of an iOS engineer is front-end development. The front end is the screen that users see and interact with.
The server side is the counterpart to the front end. When some processing essential to client-side application operation is performed on the server side, that part is generally not within the scope of work of an iOS engineer. However, depending on the site, they may be in charge of the server side, so be sure to check each time.
Skills required for iOS engineers
Let’s take a look at the required skills based on the job description of an iOS engineer.
programming
Programming skills are essential for developing systems and applications. It can be said that the two programming languages ​​essential for iOS engineers are Swift and Objective-C.
It is said that Swift will be used for future development as more and more companies are adopting it. Objective-C is a programming language that was used in Apple products even before Swift was introduced and is still maintained today.
If you have knowledge and development experience in two languages, first Swift and then Objective-C, you will be able to work as an iOS engineer.
Main languages ​​used
As mentioned above, the following two programming languages ​​are essential for iOS development.
- Swift
- Objective-C
Swift is a programming language developed by Apple. It is said to have been released in 2014. Because it is a language developed for Apple’s products based on Apple’s decades of history and know-how, coding is simple and easy to understand, less likely to cause errors, safety is emphasized, processing speed is fast, and even beginners can use it. It has the characteristics of being easy to learn.
Objective-C was developed by Brad Cox and Tom Love, and Stepstone was founded to support it. It was later licensed to NeXT Computer, a company founded in 1985 by Steve Jobs after leaving Apple. In 1995, NeXT purchased all rights from Stepstone, and in 1997, NeXT was acquired by Apple, and Objective-C became Apple’s property.
However, since it was developed in the 1980s, it became necessary to develop a new language that can be used in common with Apple’s new products rather than updating it repeatedly, so the switch to Swift is progressing.
App development
App development skills are also essential. App development progresses from requirements definition to app design, development, testing, and release.
The important thing in the requirements definition is to clarify the type of app to be developed based on conditions such as the purpose and target of app development, required functions, development period, and budget. Once the requirements definition document is complete, we move on to design.
Based on the requirements definition, we perform external design such as the application development environment, the application’s specific functions, and design. Once this is decided, we begin the internal design of how the app works.
Once the design is decided, we proceed with development using a programming language. This is the phase in which programmers proceed with coding. Once development is complete, we conduct tests to confirm that the product operates according to specifications and then repeat the process of correcting any defects to improve accuracy.
Once it is determined that there are no problems through testing, it is time to release it. No app is free from bugs and glitches, so expect maintenance to continue even after release.
Main development environment
The official integrated development environment (IDE) used for developing apps that run on iOS is Xcode. One of its characteristics is its excellence in developing apps for products that run on iOS, such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
It includes a text editor, compiler, debugger, etc. necessary for app development, and can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Apple’s website. Although it does not run on a different OS like Windows, you can start developing right away if you have a Mac PC.
English skills
The last skill I would like to mention as an essential skill for an iOS engineer is English proficiency. It is essential not only for coding for app development but also for checking iOS update information.
iOS is updated at least several times a month, or more frequently. It is necessary to take prompt action after an update but to check the latest release notes and update details, you must have the reading ability to accurately understand documents written in English.
It is said that if you have a TOEIC score of around 700 points, you will be able to read English documents smoothly.
How to become an iOS engineer with no experience
Here, let’s take a look at what it takes for someone with no experience to become an iOS engineer, by answering three common questions.
Practical experience is the most important thing for engineers, so it can be said that a harsh reality awaits those with no experience. If you can overcome this, it is possible to become an iOS engineer even with no experience.
[Question 1] What should I do first?
Let’s prepare by following the process below. Workplaces that allow inexperienced workers often have a difficult work environment. In addition to skills, it is also important to consider whether or not you can continue to set aside time for self-study.
learn to program
Learn a programming language. iOS engineers need two things: Swift and Objective-C. You need to understand the basic structure and grammar of each language.
What kind of code should I use and what kind of rules should I write so that when I press this button, the screen changes, the two choices “Yes” and “No” appear, and I proceed to the selected destination? It can be said that it means that you can understand. That is the ability to write programs that work.
Also, be sure to understand the basic mechanism behind why a program runs when you write code, as well as the hardware that serves as the platform on which the app runs.
Learn Xcode
You can program with a text editor, but an IDE is essential to run the coded program. As mentioned above, Apple’s official integrated development environment is Xcode, so be sure to learn it.
The entire application development process is supported, including file management, compilation, build, testing, debugging, and release. Use sample code and libraries to run the program on a simulator.
In addition, Apple also has a community called a forum where you can find learning content and questions about Swift and Xcode. Both are free, so take advantage of them.
Develop a simple app
Once the development environment is set up and you have acquired programming knowledge, it’s time to develop a simple app. If you are an inexperienced person aiming to become an engineer, you will need a work product that shows what you have studied and what you have acquired.
However, there is a possibility that your rival, who also has no prior experience and is aiming to become an iOS engineer, may be developing a similar app. It is a good idea to add your ideas as much as possible and be able to explain what you focused on when developing the app.
Create a portfolio
You need a portfolio to get people to understand yourself, including the apps you’ve developed. A portfolio can be said to be a compilation of your skills, products, and experiences as an engineer. Please make it public so that it can be viewed at any time.
If you have no experience, it will be easier to appeal if you mention the programming languages ​​you have acquired, the qualifications you have, and the apps you have developed, as well as mentioning the difficulties you faced while learning and how you overcame them.
[Question 2] How should I study?
Once you know what to study, the next decision is how to study it. Decide based on the time and cost available for study.
Learn at your own pace
Self-paced learning is a method of learning using books, learning sites, video content, etc.
In addition to being able to progress through your studies effortlessly, you can also keep costs relatively low. With learning sites, you can learn at any time or place.
On the other hand, the challenge is creating a learning environment that includes study companions. If you are alone, you may not have anyone to ask questions, it may take longer than expected to solve something you don’t understand, or it may be difficult to maintain motivation.
In such cases, we recommend joining a study group or learning community and finding someone you can not only ask questions about but also talk about the actual work.
programming school
Another option is to attend a programming school and learn. In recent years, an increasing number of schools are conducting classes online.
Not only can you quickly ask questions about anything you don’t understand about your studies to deepen your understanding, but you can also easily find friends who can encourage you even when you have a lot to remember.
However, the learning content is a curriculum determined by the school, and some tasks must be completed. If you choose to attend school, you must attend classes on the designated days and times. The learning content and pace are determined by the school, and there is also the cost of commuting, so overall costs can be said to be high.
Consider these points when deciding on your learning method.
[Question 3] Is it necessary to obtain qualifications?
As your studies progress, you will be concerned about obtaining qualifications. In the engineering world, practical experience is more important, but obtaining qualifications is also meaningful.
It helps you acquire systematic knowledge and allows others to objectively understand your level of knowledge. Also, from a practical perspective, some companies provide qualification allowances.
Let me introduce two qualifications that are recommended for those with no experience.
App Development with Swift
App Development with Swift is a private qualification by Apple that certifies basic knowledge of Swift, Xcode, and application development tools. Its appeal is that it specializes in developing apps that run on iOS and that it is an internationally recognized qualification.
You can take the test in Japan, but it has not yet been decided whether the test will be conducted in Japan. This means that you must take the exam in English. Your English proficiency will also be tested, so we recommend considering this when deciding whether to take the exam.
- Name: App Development with Swift
- Features: Private qualification certified by Apple
- Scope of questions: Basic knowledge about application development using Swift, Xcode, etc.
- Exam time: 50 minutes
- Test method: CBT (test using PC)
- Examination fee: 10,780 yen (tax included) / Student discount 8,580 yen (tax included)
Basic information engineer/applied information engineer
If you want to first solidify your foundation as an engineer, consider taking the Basic Information Technology Engineer or Applied Information Technology Examination, which are national qualifications certified by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry. You can learn the basics of information processing technology and the flow of system development necessary for engineers.
The higher qualification of the Basic Information Technology Engineer Examination is the Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination, which is considered to be a level at which candidates can work on their own while receiving instructions from their superiors as needed. First, aim to pass the Basic Information Technology Examination.
The Basic Information Technology Engineer Examination has been taken as an introductory qualification for IT engineers ever since the Information Processing Engineer Certification System started in 1969. With a cumulative total of approximately 9.26 million examinees and approximately 1.19 million successful candidates, it can be said that it is one of the most recognized qualifications in Japan.
- Name: Basic Information Technology Engineer Examination
- Features: National qualification certified by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry
- Scope of questions: Basic IT knowledge necessary for engineers
- Exam time: 90 minutes (Subject A), 100 minutes (Subject B)
- Test method: CBT (test using PC)
- Examination fee: 7,500 yen (tax included)
summary
Application development for smartphones, including the iPhone, is attracting attention due to high demand, prospects, and large market size. For iOS engineers responsible for the development, the field of activity will continue to expand, as they consider not only iOS but also highly compatible products such as the iPad and Apple Watch.
