Mobile App Development Trends to Watch out for
Mobile apps are an integral part of our lives – whether for checking emails, making payments, watching shows, adding to cart, or simply connecting with our loved ones – we can’t do it without a mobile app. It’s transforming the way we interact, pay, work, shop, and entertain ourselves on the go. With technological advancements, developers must stay updated with the latest trends to deliver new-age apps that exceed the evolving needs of users. On average, users have 40 apps on their phones, out of which they regularly use at least 18 of them. With gaming, education, and business being the top categories of app usage, developers must be aware of the trends in mobile apps to capture the audience’s attention.
1. 5G Revolution: Accelerating User Experiences
The 5G revolution is ushering in a new era of mobile connectivity, promising lightning-fast speeds and virtually lag-free experiences. Imagine downloading an HD movie in seconds or seamless video conferencing without interruptions. With 5G being readily available in most metro and urban cities, app developers can push boundaries and create apps that embrace 5G speed to make users fall in love with the experience.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): Increasing Personalisation
AI and ML have revolutionised the mobile app development landscape, enabling apps to analyse user behaviour, personalise experiences, and make intelligent recommendations. A prime example is Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, which embraces machine learning algorithms to understand your queries, respond to commands, and provide contextual information. Did you ever imagine you could talk to a virtual assistant to ask the time, make calls, or send messages? That’s the power of emerging technologies.
3. Internet of Things (IoT) Integration: Boosting Smartness
The explosion of smart devices has paved the way for IoT integration in mobile apps. By connecting various devices such as wearables, smart home appliances, and even vehicles, apps can unlock new possibilities for seamless automation and control. The popular fitness app Fitbit, for instance, syncs with IoT-enabled devices to track users' health data and provide personalised insights. You can now control the lights and fans of your home from your app, even if you’re not at home – isn’t that cool?
4. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): Amplifying a New World
AR and VR technologies have rapidly gained momentum, transforming how users interact with mobile apps. Pokemon Go demonstrated the immense potential of AR by showcasing virtual objects in the physical world, creating an immersive gaming experience. Similarly, IKEA Place utilises AR to enable users to virtually place furniture in their homes before purchasing. If your product or service can benefit with AR or virtual reality apps technology, there’s a lot of scope for you to connect with your audiences.
5. Beacon Technology: Enhancing User Experiences
Beacon technology, based on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), allows apps to communicate with nearby devices or physical locations, enhancing user experiences in various domains. For instance, Starbucks leverages beacons to deliver personalised offers, notify users about nearby stores, and facilitate seamless mobile payments, enhancing customer engagement.
Using such app development enhancements, companies can push boundaries and think of more creative ways to reach out to customers at all times.
6. Instant Apps: Eliminating the Need for Downloads
Instant apps eliminate the need for users to download and install the entire app, providing instant access to specific functionalities.For instance, if someone receives a payment request through Google Pay, they can directly use it without installing the complete app. This trend reduces app abandonment rates and enhances user convenience. Also, it saves a lot of time for the user and space on their device.
7. Voice Search and Voice Commands: A Conversational Approach
Voice search is rapidly enriching how users interact with apps. Amazon Echo and Google Home have paved the way for conversational interactions. Think about how voice commands enhance navigation with apps like Google Maps or execute tasks hands-free. Domino's Pizza's app allows customers to place orders using voice commands, making the pizza-ordering process as easy as saying "extra cheese." Even when you’re watching something on YouTube and don’t know the spelling, you can simply do a voice search, and all the videos you need will come right up!
8. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): Bridging the Gap
Progressive Web Apps bring us the best of both worlds – the accessibility of websites and the
functionality of native apps. These apps load quickly, even on slower networks, and provide a seamless user
experience across devices. For instance, Twitter's PWA delivers a native app-like experience, enhancing engagement
and retention. There’s so much companies and developers can do together to embrace emerging technologies like these
and make a real difference in the way users operate with apps.
Did you know? Mobile shopping is estimated to double in 2025. That’s a lot of scope for e-commerce to move to
mobile and use the latest mobile app development trends to create excellent customer experiences that will boost sales.
At Globalion, we continue to excel in mobile app development and follow the latest app design trends to bring innovation to
every screen. We’re also rapidly incorporating artificial intelligence in apps to help businesses reach more customers and
make a lasting impact. If you have a great idea and need a mobile app development team to execute it, contact us today!
