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The mobile app industry is at the most interesting juncture both from the users perspective and the developers. One thing is certain that mobile app development is going to dominate the tech space in the coming years. New types of devices and highly evolved applications that do much more than your mundane games and entertainment will come into play. Mobile app devices are predicted to surpass all records by 2020 with about 6.1 billion smartphones to be in circulation.
With the arrival of AI, IoT, cross-platform development and other factors, the future of mobile app development seems exciting and unpredictable. What are some trends that developers need to be aware of, with regards to the future of app development? Armed with this knowledge and requisite skills, developers need to focus on some of these areas to be future-ready and design better.
Cross-platform and cross-device development
A mobile application development services company no longer has the luxury of one device type or OS. The evolution of HTML5 technology and other trends like Progressive Web Apps means that the future belongs to apps that work across devices and platforms, and can be built quickly saving time and costs.
Enterprise apps
It is the age of anytime availability and BYOD. Enterprises now invest in sleek, powerful and tailormade app solutions that help them increase sales, boost conversion, be accessible and supplement their old enterprise systems with cutting-edge and light technology. Many enterprises have opted for managed services to run their apps or create bespoke apps addressing specific problems. Either way, enterprise apps are here to stay and a sure thing.
IoT Applications
The Internet of Things or IoT is one of the hottest technology trends and mobile apps are now leveraging the power of IoT. Mobile apps can play a significant role in connecting the world further and blurring the lines between real and virtual with IoT and wearable tech. There have been some great apps that are intuitive and richly featured apps. Since smartphones are often the medium of communication between IoT widgets and the users, they can supplement the IoT ecosystem in improving our lives, healthcare, and other arenas.
Location-based Services
As apps have overtaken a large number of our routine tasks from ordering groceries to locating handymen for odd jobs, technology has evolved to make these tasks easier. Location-based apps and services provide the more location-centric and relevant information based on users history and interests. Location-based apps will continue to rise in the consumer as well as enterprise domain.
Cloud-driven mobility
A Cisco research says that cloud-based apps will drive around 90 percent of total data traffic by 2019 and mobile cloud traffic will grow by 11-fold with a compound annual growth rate of 90%. Cloud computing has found its place with mobile apps and apps of the future will lean more towards the cloud rather than the device. In fact, cross-platform compatibility, enterprise apps focusing on BYOD will all benefit from mobile cloud apps. These are also more robust from the security standpoint.
The rise of mCommerce
Mobile commerce is expected to rise exponentially in the next couple of years and instead of using credit/debit cards, customers prefer mobile ways of payment like Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and many other services. Predictive analysis, big data, and wearable tech will also boost the mCommerce trend and inspire more mobile purchases.
To wrap it up
Mobile app developers cant afford to be complacent and rely on obsolete tools and trends. To be at the leading edge of technology and remain competitive and relevant, you need to stay fresh and updated with new technologies and waves that shape the world of mobile apps. Do you agree? Please let us know your opinion in the comment section below.
