As smartphones continue to evolve and are purchased by more and more people, the amount of mobile applications has increased significantly. With smartphone users having an average of 23 installed apps on their smartphone device, the average smartphone user relies on a multitude of apps. But what makes a certain app better than its competition?
Apps such as Snapchat, Vine, and Shazam are seen as some of the most successful apps due to their ability to dominate an audience. These apps perform specific functions that other apps have been unable to replicate and provide competition. However, apps that compete with each other for the same customer, such as Tweetbot and Tweetdeck, must attempt to distinguish itself from their counterpart. Apps with a clean and fluid interface that allows for easy accessibility and navigation will ultimately be the most successful, as today’s society demands information at a rapid pace. The ability to access information in a moment’s notice is vital for app users, with simplicity often being more important than an app with various features. A sleek user interface is recommended by most app users due to the small screen size of most mobile devices.
Aside from a user friendly interface, apps and their developers must be willing to constantly evolve. With Snapchat implementing a section of their app devoted to the latest news, the most successful apps are embracing the ever-changing demands of their users. Games such as Angry Birds have developed new experiences for their customers with the hope that users will keep their app installed on mobile devices. Users are partial to apps that provide new experiences for the customer, as additional features and new accessibility options are desired.
Although there is not a specific formula for an app’s success, an app that is deemed useful and efficient is bound to be successful. Free apps are more likely to be downloaded than those that require a purchase, as users are less reluctant to be personally invested in a free application. Plus, who doesn’t want an app that can provide immediate assistance for a specific purpose at no cost?