Mobile testing is a whole different challenge compared to web or desktop testing—and testing across Android and iOS introduces even more complexity. From OS-specific UI behaviors to hardware differences and store policies, you need a testing checklist that respects the nuances of both platforms. Now, let’s walk through a comprehensive mobile app testing checklist—starting with what applies to both, then breaking down what’s unique to Android and iOS.

General Mobile Testing Checklist (Applies to Both)

These are the core test areas you should always validate on every mobile app, regardless of platform:

• App installs, launches, and updates without errors
• Responsive UI layout across screen sizes and orientations
• Seamless navigation and consistent animations
• Push notifications are received, clickable, and contextually relevant
• No abnormal battery drain during normal usage
• Functionality across connectivity types (Wi-Fi, 4G/5G, and offline)
• Permission requests behave as expected (camera, GPS, contacts)
• The app does not crash under normal use cases

Android-Specific Testing Considerations

Android testing comes with its own set of challenges due to device fragmentation:

• Test across various manufacturers (Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi, etc.)
• Validate hardware-specific behaviors (camera, sensors, etc.)
• Check app compatibility on different Android OS versions
• Confirm APK file integrity for direct install scenarios
• Ensure back button and navigation bar consistency
• Review behavior and compliance on the Google Play Store

iOS-Specific Testing Considerations

On iOS, testing is usually simpler but stricter due to Apple’s tight ecosystem:

• Test on a range of iPhones (from SE models to Pro Max series)
• Confirm UI respects safe areas and notch placement
• Validate gesture-based navigation and iOS-specific interactions
• Test App Store submission workflows, build signing, and TestFlight behavior
• Ensure compliance with Apple’s privacy policies and permission prompts

Some Additional Tips

Need to boost the effectiveness of your mobile test strategy? Start here:

• Prioritize real device testing—emulators can’t replicate real-world edge cases
• Automate smoke tests and regressions using tools like Appium, XCUITest, or Espresso
• Maintain a device lab or device cloud matrix to ensure broad coverage

Concluding Words

A strong mobile testing strategy means going beyond just functional checks—it means understanding how different devices, OS versions, and user behaviors affect your app. And with this checklist, you are well-equipped to cover both Android and iOS environments with full confidence, clarity, and consistency.