Using Phonegap for Native Application Development

Getting to know the tools

Loading APIs with onDeviceReady

Begin all iPhone feature interactions or device-bound functions post the 'deviceready' event. This assures that Cordova’s APIs are fully loaded (They need their beauty sleep too! 😉):

document.addEventListener('deviceready', this.onDeviceReady, false);

onDeviceReady: function() {
    // Meet all your device friends here
}
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Picking the right UI Libraries

Stick with one framework like Ionic or Framework7. They provide native-like UI elements and transitions that beat awkwardly shuffling between multiple libraries.

Understanding distribution platforms

Research app distribution guidelines for different platforms. Each App Store and Google Play Store have their own unique dance moves you need to know.

Leverage your front-end skills

Use your web-fu to create apps using PhoneGap. It's like strapping a jetpack on your web development skills and blasting off into mobile development!

Light, but mighty with PhoneGap

PhoneGap is the featherweight champion for creating lightweight apps. Treats like LocalStorage and GeoLocation are its best pals, and you can put unused device features to sleep to boost performance.

Use HTML5 frameworks for native accessibility

Combine with frameworks like Sencha Touch or Ionic for smooth integration with native features. Tone down DOM usage and go with CSS animations (sorry jQuery!) for better performance.

Keep platform specifics in mind

Ensure code portability and be aware of UI/UX compromises. Lighter JavaScript libraries like zepto.js can manage more performance efficient applications.

Optimize Retina Displays and gestures

Make your app's UI sparkle on all devices by using Retina Display optimizations. Implement finger-friendly gestures like swipe-to-delete for a fun user experience.

Exploring advanced strategies

Integrating hardware features

Match device capabilities like accelerometer or camera with PhoneGap’s extensive plugin library for a more immersive app.

Building with ease using PhoneGap Build

Forget local setup headaches. Use PhoneGap Build to compile apps in the cloud ([Spoiler Alert: Not actually in the clouds... ☁️😎)

Boosting PhoneGap performance

Use CSS3 transitions for fresh animations. Pry maximum value from Ext JS 4 in enterprise apps, balancing complexity and value.

Learning from the community

Dive into PhoneGap GitHub for handy examples and open discussions. Also, eavesdrop on expert dialogs like those between Marco Arment and Dan Benjamin, for pro insights.