Hybrid mobile application development combines the elements of both native and web applications. This approach allows developers to write a single codebase that can run on multiple platforms, such as iOS and Android, using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Here are the key aspects of hybrid mobile app development:

Advantages

1. Cross-Platform Compatibility: One of the primary benefits is the ability to run the same application on multiple platforms with minimal code changes.
2. Cost-Effective: Developing a single codebase for multiple platforms reduces development and maintenance costs.
3. Faster Development: Leveraging web technologies and frameworks can speed up the development process.
4. Easier Maintenance: With a single codebase, updates and bug fixes need to be made only once.
5. Access to Device Features: Through plugins and frameworks, hybrid apps can access device features such as the camera, GPS, and push notifications.

Challenges

1. Performance: Hybrid apps may not perform as well as native apps, especially for graphics-intensive tasks.
2. User Experience: Achieving a native-like experience can be challenging and may require additional effort.
3. Limited Access to Device Features: Although many device features can be accessed through plugins, some might be limited or have inconsistent support.

Popular Frameworks

1. Ionic: Built on top of Angular and Apache Cordova, Ionic provides a library of mobile-optimized UI components and tools for building hybrid apps.
2. React Native: Developed by Facebook, React Native allows developers to build mobile apps using JavaScript and React. Although it can render native components, it's often categorized as a hybrid framework due to its web-like development process.
3. Flutter: Developed by Google, Flutter uses the Dart language to create natively compiled applications for mobile, web, and desktop from a single codebase.
4. Apache Cordova (PhoneGap): Cordova wraps your web application in a native container, allowing it to access device functions.
5. Framework7: Tailored for creating mobile web apps with a native look and feel, it supports multiple frameworks like Vue.js and React.

Development Process

1. Planning and Design: Define the app's purpose, target audience, and key features. Create wireframes and design the UI/UX.
2. Setting Up the Environment: Install necessary tools and frameworks. For example, Node.js, Ionic CLI, or React Native CLI.
3. Development: Write the app using the chosen framework. Utilize plugins to access native device features.
4. Testing: Test the app on different devices and platforms to ensure compatibility and performance. Tools like BrowserStack or real device labs can be useful.