Shopify App Development 101: Getting Started with Building Custom Apps

Your Shopify store is the cornerstone of your e-commerce business, where all your sales happen and the heart of your success. However, while your Shopify store might have everything you want from a website, there’s one thing you might be missing: a Shopify store app.

Shopify apps give your customers an accessible and simple way to shop for your products and find what they want. With the right strategies, you can significantly increase your sales by investing in a Shopify app.

Individuals interested in learning how to create app for Shopify store sales can search no longer. This article will dive into the world of building custom apps in Shopify to elevate the e-commerce experience. Let’s get started!

Why Should I Make My Shopify Store an App?

Many e-commerce store owners hesitate to create a mobile application for their store because they are uncertain about the specific benefits of mobile app creation. There are several advantages to making your Shopify store an app, including the following:

• A mobile application provides users with a better mobile shopping experience – critical considering that 60% of e-commerce sales are made through mobile devices.
• Because many people shop using mobile devices, having an accessible application to simplify the shopping process can increase your chances of making sales.
• Apps help build brand loyalty, providing customers a unique and personalized experience.
• Having your e-commerce store visible in the app store creates a new acquisition channel, allowing you to access untapped customer segments.
• Mobile apps help you develop your brand image, making it easier for users to remember your store and offerings.

The Types of Shopify Apps

Shopify offers two types of apps for e-commerce: custom and public applications.

• Custom apps are for specific merchants not listed in the Shopify App Store. When you create a custom app in Shopify, you create it in your Partner Dashboard. General customers will not be able to see this application.
• Public apps are available to several merchants and made for listing in the Shopify App Store. These apps are also created in your Partner Dashboard.

How to Create an App for My Shopify Store

Once you’ve determined the type of app that suits your needs, it’s time to make my Shopify store an app! There are two primary options for creating a Shopify app: using Node.js or using a Shopify mobile app builder. The first option is more complicated and often requires help from an outside app developer like Transform Agency to make your app everything you want.

Below is a breakdown of each option to get you started on the Shopify app create journey.

Creating a Shopify App Using Node.js

The first – and more complex – option to create an app for Shopify store is using Node.js. You can navigate this process in the following steps:

1. Register for a Shopify Partner account.
2. Create a development store that allows you to test your app and its themes before officially launching the application.
3. Ensure you have the newest version of Node.js installed.
4. Install the Shopify command-line interface (CLI). This tool generates Node.js, app extensions, and Shopify themes and can automate app development tasks.
5. Install React, the default language used in the Shopify framework during app creation.
6. Use your CLI to sign in to Shopify.
7. Create a new app project. Enter the following command using the terminal: $ Shopify app create node.
8. Ensure you’ve authenticated your NGROK before creating your development server. You can authenticate this using the following command:  $ Shopify app tunnel auth <token>.
9. Launch a local development server using the $ Shopify app serve command.
10. Install your Shopify app, create in your Shopify development store. You can do this by using the command: $ Shopify app open.
11. Begin building your Shopify application. Add products and draft orders to test your app’s functionality.
12. Use Shopify Polaris to add an empty state to your application and test your app’s front end.
13. Include a resource selector by choosing products from your app and using the App Bridge to select several products for your application. Add a list of new resources and set up the GraphQL Admin API.
14. Update your product prices and other relevant data.

Creating a Shopify App Using a Shopify Mobile App Builder

A simpler option to create an app for Shopify store sales is using a Shopify Mobile App builder. Mobile app builders are available on the Shopify App Store and can simplify the development process – something crucial if you aren’t familiar with coding.

Before beginning this process, select a trustworthy mobile app builder. Look for indicators like the app’s quality based on reviews, availability across platforms, and cost-effectiveness.

Mobile app builders will automatically synchronize your store’s data to transform it into a mobile application. You can continue creating a Shopify app using a mobile app builder in the following steps:

1. Navigate to your Shopify dashboard and select “Apps” in the menu bar.
2. Select “App and sales channel settings.”
3. Click on your selected mobile app builder, then select “Add app.” This action will take you to an authorization page.
4. Choose the “Add sales channel” option. The sales channel will be installed in your store.
5. Use the drag-and-drop builder to customize the application and design your app’s appearance.
6. Preview your application before publishing it to determine the layout’s functionality and how well your mobile app aligns with your e-commerce platform. Look for elements like application speed, navigation, and functionality.
7. Create your Shopify developer account. You’ll need a developer account for both the Google Play and Apple App Store to advertise your application to customers.
8. Publish your application using your mobile app builder by selecting the “Publish” option.

Create App for Shopify Store Using Transform Agency

Building custom apps for your Shopify store is critical for building brand awareness and reaching new customers. While you can navigate through creating an app for Shopify individually, you don’t have to go through the process alone – providers like Transform Agency can help you make the perfect Shopify app.

Transform Agency provides Shopify mobile app development services, so all e-commerce store owners can start selling on mobile devices with an accessible app experience.

Contact Transform Agency today to discuss your e-commerce project and start building the perfect Shopify app!