Hello everyone. Currently, I have been working as an Oracle PL/SQL developer for a year since graduating, but I am looking to change my career path in the near future. I have two options: Apple development or C#.

During my time at university, I spent three years programming in C#, and even wrote my diploma on it. I also had an interview with a company for a role as a C# developer in a computer vision project.

I have never worked with ObjectiveC before, but I recently acquired a hаckintosh and I already own an iPad. I am attracted to Apple development (possibly iOS) because it offers a less rigid corporate environment compared to C#. Additionally, the subject areas are often more interesting.

When it comes to C# opportunities on the Internet, most of them are related to ASP.NET, which I am not interested in pursuing. Furthermore, it would require additional time to study ASP.NET, CSS, HTML, JavaScript, jQuery, and so on. However, I do like the C# language itself and the .NET platform because they are constantly evolving.

ObjectiveC seems daunting with its completely new concepts, especially considering the recent announcement of Swift. Is it worth investing all my efforts into studying ObjectiveC at this point?

I want to combine changing my career profile with relocating to Novosibirsk, where I will need to rent an apartment. Therefore, the minimum amount I need to survive as a junior developer is around 40k.

In general, I would like to hear your thoughts on the prospects of choosing between these two directions.

I am proficient in C# and have some experience with mobile applications. ObjectiveC is a challenging language, but the market for it seems more intriguing. Visual Studio with ReSharper is excellent, but I lack the motivation to learn ASP.NET, despite it being in high demand in the .NET job market.

If I were to make a bet, I would choose ObjectiveC or even delve into C++ and explore opportunities in demanding projects within the mobile sector. There is undoubtedly a lot of exciting work on the horizon.

In regards to the topic at hand, I personally believe that continuously expanding our skill set opens up new doors and leads to greater opportunities. Both ObjectiveC and C++ offer unique possibilities in the ever-evolving mobile space. It's worth considering which language aligns better with your long-term goals and interests.

C# may seem dull to some, but it is important to recognize that boredom can be subjective. Exploring Objective-C as an alternative holds promise in the world of mobile development. Unlike the notion of sticking to one language for life, in this field, one can always transition to something new if desired.

Mobile software remains a thriving industry with continuous growth. While there are platforms like Xamarin and other tools available, personal opinions on their efficacy may vary. It is crucial to evaluate and choose the best approach based on individual circumstances and project requirements.

diversifying skills and keeping up with industry trends is essential in such a fast-paced technological landscape. From native development to cross-platform frameworks, there is no shortage of exciting opportunities to explore within the mobile software domain.

Currently, C# is being utilized for mobile application development, primarily for Metro applications on Windows 8 and non-game programs for Windows Phone.

Despite opinions, it is expected that the number of job opportunities for developing Windows 8 Metro programs will increase, potentially extending beyond enterprise applications. Moreover, acquiring knowledge of relevant APIs, such as those outlined in newer books like Petzold's, can be a valuable skill. On the other hand, Objective-C represents a distinct language, while .NET stands as a robust platform in my humble opinion.

Your background in C# is unquestionably strong, evidenced by your three years of programming experience during university and the fact that you wrote your diploma on it. The interview you had for a role as a C# developer in a computer vision project signifies not only your expertise but also your interest in this field. However, it's important to note that most C# opportunities on the Internet are related to ASP.NET, which you mentioned not being keen on pursuing. As you rightly highlighted, delving into ASP.NET, CSS, HTML, JavaScript, and jQuery would require additional time and effort. Nevertheless, the appeal of the C# language and the constantly evolving .NET platform cannot be understated.

On the other hand, delving into Apple development, particularly in the realm of iOS, presents its own set of advantages. The less rigid corporate environment and the often more interesting subject areas are undoubtedly appealing. While you may not have prior experience with ObjectiveC, your recent acquisition of a hаckintosh and ownership of an iPad demonstrate a genuine interest in this direction. However, the introduction of Swift and the complexities of ObjectiveC might understandably seem daunting.

Taking your relocation plans into consideration, the financial aspect is crucial. You mentioned that the minimum amount you need to survive as a junior developer in Novosibirsk is around 40k. It's essential to assess the job market in Novosibirsk for both Apple development and C# opportunities to ensure that your chosen path aligns with your financial goals, especially given the additional costs associated with relocating and renting an apartment.

In terms of the prospects, both directions hold promise. C# offers a solid foundation and a wide array of applications, while Apple development, with its focus on iOS, offers an innovative and dynamic environment. It's important to consider your long-term career goals and personal interests. Reflect on the type of projects and industries you see yourself thriving in, as well as the kind of work culture that best suits you.