Apps are thriving right now shows new research

If you’re in two minds as to whether or not your business requires a mobile app, the latest research shows that there is overwhelming consumer demand for apps, meaning now is the best possible time to get your small business app design project underway.

App research firm App Annie has released new data which shows that spend on mobile apps has skyrocketed by more than 40% during the pandemic. The year-on-year increase is the fastest pace of growth ever recorded for the app market, demonstrating that consumer demand for apps and app experiences is now at record levels.

App Annie’s Donnie Kristianto said, “New App Annie data reveals that consumers spent £23 billion / $32 billion on in-app purchases across iOS and Google Play globally in Q1 2021. It's the biggest quarter since records began – and the figure is 40% up on the same quarter for 2020.

“Q1 2020 was the first period of global lockdowns. Stay at home orders forced consumers to seek out indoor stimulation, and they found it on their smartphones, through games and other highly engaging apps such as video streaming and social sharing platforms.

“As a result, the market grew at unprecedented speed. Smartphone users spent around £6.54 billion / $9 billion more on apps and games in Q1 2021 than they did in Q1 2020.”

What does Google say?

Search engine Google has also recognised the vital role that apps have played for consumers during the pandemic. It says ‘nimble’ apps are thriving. Writing on the Think With Google blog , Marcin Karnowski and Katja Strelcova say, “ We know that apps allow businesses to deliver smoother, faster and more personalised user experiences. In this unprecedented year, apps have also become a crucial platform that brands can use to pivot quickly and respond to changing market dynamics.”

One of the key things advocated by Google after examining a series of app success stories, is the need to focus on the consumer’s current needs, problems and wants when creating the app, and moving quickly to meet those requirements.

What does this mean for you?

If your business doesn’t yet have an app, you’re missing out. There is huge consumer demand for apps, and consumers have shown they are more willing than ever to spend money on in-app purchases now than ever before. From gaming to booking appointments, apps are a key part of the modern consumer experience as we slowly begin to emerge from the pandemic, and are used to help navigate day-to-day tasks and challenges with convenience.

Get in touch with our team now to begin your project.