What distinguishes 'mobile-first' design in web development?

Mobile-first design in web development is characterized by its prioritization of mobile users when creating websites and applications. This approach involves designing for the smallest screens first, ensuring that all essential features and functionalities are accessible on mobile devices before expanding the design for larger screens like tablets and desktops.

The rationale behind mobile-first design is based on the growing trend of users accessing the internet primarily through mobile devices. By focusing on mobile experiences initially, designers can streamline content and functionality to meet the demands of mobile users, enhancing usability and performance on smaller screens. Once the mobile version is fully developed, designers can adapt the layout and features for larger screens, ensuring a seamless transition that maintains a strong user experience across devices.

Prioritizing mobile helps in creating faster loading times and a more straightforward navigation system, which are crucial for mobile device users who may have limited bandwidth and shorter attention spans. By starting with mobile, developers can create a robust base that can be expanded, ensuring that the core user experience remains intact as they scale up for larger formats.