I'm looking to create a wallpaper app where users can browse, download, and eventually upload their own high-quality wallpapers. I'm currently trying to figure out the complete roadmap for this project. Should I go with Flutter, React Native, or stick to native development? Also, how do apps typically manage and serve images efficiently? Is a backend necessary from the beginning? Lastly, what are some tips for scaling the app as it grows? I really appreciate any insights from those who have experience in building similar applications!
2 Answers
I think React Native is a great choice for your project! You'll definitely need a backend if you want users to upload wallpapers. I've had good experiences with MongoDB for managing data.
Honestly, Flutter combined with Firebase is a great match for this type of app. Given your data analyst background, you'll likely pick it up quickly. You don't need a full backend right off the bat; Firebase Storage and Firestore can handle a lot before you need to worry about scaling. Cloudinary is also a solid option for optimizing images when load times become an issue.
Be cautious with Firebase though! If you're not experienced, you might run into security issues. Many users set up permissions wrong, which exposes their database publicly. Building your own backend can give you clearer control over what’s accessible.