A new start-up offering a cloud-based platform for building native and web-based iOS and Android apps has launched.

AnyPresence’s main selling point is its “zero footprint” made possible by the cloud-based approach, which means there is no need for developers to install development tools or SDKs. The platform uses a secure cloud-based application server to support app integration, SMS support, data storage and other enterprise-class requirements.

By using AnyPresence, businesses can reduce the cost of developing apps and time to market, as well as produce apps that work across both iOS and Android.

Apps can be built and modified via a web browser using templates that use best practice for mobile user experience and provide a framework for building bespoke apps for both customer-facing and internal use, the firm says. The platform can be used to deploy HTML5 web apps using cloud infrastructure while native apps can be compiled on the platform, then tested locally before being submitted to app stores.

AnyPresence – which is the brainchild of former executives from business software companies SAP and Oracle and backed by venture capital funding – is currently in beta testing, with general availability expected in April.