Top Mobile App Development Trends

Mobile phones in today’s world are an essential part of life. The number of smartphone users globally are on a booming rise, as with the number of apps people are using on them. In fact, it’s predicted by Gartner that in 2017, 268 million mobile apps downloaded. Clearly, 2017 is poised to be a benchmark year for mobile, representing huge opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses. With so much innovation tied to mobile app technologies, it’s crucial to stay on top of the latest trends. Inspired by Bizznessapp’s infographic, let’s take a peek at the key mobile app development trends for 2017.

#1 – Location-Based Services

Location-based services will continue to be an important, integral part of the smartphone experience, more so in 2017 than ever before. Location-based services (LBS) allow apps to use device location data to provide a new level of real-time information, interaction and revenue generation for app developers and businesses. For example, LBS can be implemented to:

• Show users nearby attractions or services, along with reviews or directions
• Show users location-based advertising and real-time retail offers

Major tech giants have already made huge investments in the LBS space. Key areas we will find an increased use of LBS include retail and tourism & travel sectors.

#2 – Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) sounds like a very futuristic idea, but actually the technology has been around for years. AR technology has become more robust over the years, providing for an increasingly immersive experience where computer-generated images are placed on top of the user’s view of reality. Popular apps such as Pokémon GO have helped bring AR into the mainstream. In 2017, it is expected that even more apps will implement augmented reality and transform the way that we interact with our devices.

#3 – Instant Apps on Android

Mobile apps often provide a better user experience than browser-based apps, but first you have to find them and then download and install them. In 2016, Google announced a new Android feature called Instant Apps. Instant Apps allow you to experience fast and beautiful user interfaces and immersive apps with just one tap, without having to install them on your device. The basic idea is that when you click on a link, if that link has an associated Instant App, you get a small version of that app instead of the website. This opens up a world of possibilities – think of all the apps that you use once and never want to bother with again. Instant Apps are the perfect solution for a quick mobile experience.

#4 – Artificial Intelligence

More and more developers are enabling machine learning and embedding AI into their apps. Google, Faceook and Apple are all developing AI tools to help people automatically do tasks that would otherwise require more effort – truly the next generation of smart mobile apps. Artificial intelligence makes the smartphone a personal assistant, personal shopper, personal tutor and more.

#5 – Mobile Security

While mobile apps offer a level of convenience that the world has never known before, it has also brought about a number of security risks. In 2017, application security is going to be a top priority for developers. As more people are using their smartphones as wallets and storing sensitive credit card details, bank logins and passwords, security will be a major concern for consumers. Apps that have built-in security features and offer a better user experience will perform better.

#6 – Internet of Things

Gartner forecasted that 6.4 billion connected “things” were in use worldwide in 2016. As more phones, computers, thermostats, lights and other household devices and gadgets connect to the Internet, more and more apps are needed to control them remotely. Businesses that operate in the health, education, security, smart homes and automobile industries have all started to integrate with the Internet of Things.Get in TouchAre you following the latest app development trends above? Talk to our team to learn how we can help rebuild your app or create a new custom app that is in line with the latest trends and best practices.