THE FLOHKIDS APP: SECONDHAND 2.0

Solution

Streamlined App Architecture 

Using an InAppBrowser, devsuit quickly brings the online platform to devices as a native app—without the need for duplicate development. The advantages are clear: rapid development thanks to the use of existing functionalities from the online platform, as well as simpler updates thanks to the shared codebase. Added value for smartphones comes from specially developed features such as camera integration for scanning barcodes, personalized push notifications, or direct calendar integration. 

This is made possible by intelligent two-way communication (app ↔ online platform): The online platform can use this channel to trigger a native action within the app (e.g., “Open barcode scanner”), and the app sends the results directly back to the online platform (in our example, the scanned code). The platform processes the information further and outputs search results, for example. The data exchange takes place within the app. This eliminates the need for a detour, and users feel as though they are using a “real,” native app. And ultimately, that’s exactly what it is—but it leverages our client’s existing infrastructure to save time and money. 

To ensure everything runs smoothly, we’ve implemented automatic context detection: The online platform thus recognizes whether a request is coming from a regular browser or from the app—and only activates two-way communication and native features (scanner, share button, calendar, etc.) within the app.


Selected features of the Flohkids app 

Stand booking: Stands/shelves at all available locations can be booked via the integrated online platform. 

Product search: The Flohlkids online catalog can also be searched within the app, and favorite items can be added to a wish list. 

Push notifications: Users receive push notifications—for example, when items are sold—and can tap to go directly to the relevant view on the online platform. 

Barcode scan: A button on the online platform opens the native scanner; after scanning, the data is fed back into the online platform and the corresponding action (e.g., find item) is initiated. 

Calendar: After a reservation is made, the app creates the start and end dates of the rental period in the system calendar. 

Share: Products or shelves can be shared via the native sharing feature; the operator centrally controls the share data, while the end device determines the appearance. 

Camera: When creating entries, the device’s camera or photo library can be used directly via a streamlined native interface. **