In a world where over 6.3 billion people are actively using mobile devices, it’s crystal clear that mobile application development reigns supreme in the digital age. As we navigate the post-Covid-19 era, sustaining a business in this fiercely competitive market demands staying ahead of the curve.
At ESP Workforce, we take this responsibility seriously, aiming to provide our users with insights into the real mobile app development trends for 2024. In this blog, we will explore what is ahead in 2024 and how the app development industry is expected to transform in the coming year.
2023 has already been quite an eventful year for the mobile app development industry as the developers explored multiple technologies and trends and experimented with them.
While not all the trends stayed, there are many that are here to stay and will continue entering the coming year.
Staying informed and prepared for what is coming ahead will help you stay ahead in the industry and take advantage of the trends. Without any delays, let’s get started.
Why is it Important to Know about the Latest Trends in the Industry?
Before starting with the upcoming trends, why is it important for you to know about them? Here are some reasons;
Competitive Edge
In a crowded app marketplace, staying ahead of the competition is vital. Knowing the latest trends allows businesses to differentiate themselves by offering innovative features and experiences that capture the attention of users.
Meeting User Expectations
User preferences are constantly evolving. By staying informed about trends, developers can create apps that align with user expectations, resulting in higher user satisfaction and retention rates.
Optimizing Resources
Understanding which trends are gaining traction helps businesses allocate their resources effectively. It prevents the wastage of time and money on outdated features and technologies.
Future-Proofing
Adopting current trends can future-proof an app. It ensures that the app remains relevant and functional as technology evolves, reducing the need for frequent and costly updates.
Enhancing User Engagement
Trendy apps tend to attract more users and keep them engaged for longer periods. This can lead to increased revenue and brand loyalty.
Monetization Opportunities
Being aware of emerging trends allows businesses to identify new monetization opportunities. Whether through in-app purchases, subscriptions, or ads, staying current can boost revenue streams.
Market Adaptation
Global events and economic shifts can impact app usage patterns. Being aware of trends enables businesses to adapt to changing market conditions more effectively.
Risk Mitigation
Investing in outdated technologies or ignoring emerging trends can be risky. Staying informed helps mitigate risks associated with falling behind the technological curve.
Knowing the latest mobile app trends is not just a luxury but a necessity in today’s digital landscape. It empowers businesses to innovate, stay competitive, and cater to the ever-evolving needs of their users.
Emerging Mobile App Development Trends in 2024
Here are the emerging and future trends that you should look out for in 2024;
Gear Up for 6G Technology
As our world undergoes rapid transformations, technology keeps us moving forward. We transitioned from 4G to 5G, embracing swift internet, robust connections, and minimal delays. But now, the focus has shifted to 6G. What innovations will it bring?
Imagine 6G as the next big thing in wireless communication. Visualize it as the next-gen 5G, set to deliver faster speeds and improved efficiency. While it’s in the early developmental stages, experts foresee its potential adoption in the next ten years.
So, what’s the big deal with 6G? Well, it’s expected to make machines talk to each other even better. These advancements may pave the way for innovations like autonomous vehicles and highly intelligent urban centers.
In simple terms, 6G is the future of technology, and it’s going to be a big player in shaping what’s next.
Wearable Apps Will Continue to Rise
Wearing a traditional watch is classic, no doubt about it. People still love their old-school timepieces. But, here’s the thing: wearable tech, like smartwatches, is changing the game.
Smartwatches excel beyond timekeeping, with features like monitoring your heart rate, counting steps, and more.
It’s more than just watches; we now have smart jewelry, smart attire, and even smart hearing aids! This explains the rising demand for wearable devices.
With these devices playing a larger role in our routines, they’re also shaping the newest mobile app developments.
- Health Tracking: Wearables are turning into personal health monitors and fitness trackers. They help us keep an eye on our well-being.
- Replacing Your Phone: They streamline basic activities like music playback, photography, time checking, and scheduling without requiring our smartphones.
- Faster Messaging: Wearables let us respond quickly to messages from places like WhatsApp or emails. No more digging through your bag for your phone.
- Location Tracking: You can keep tabs on your real-time location, which is super handy for staying connected with friends or finding your way around.
- Behavioral Insights: These devices also help translate data into insights about our behavior. This means they can nudge us to make healthier choices or be more productive.
So, wearing a smart gadget isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s a practical part of our modern lives, making things more convenient and helping us stay healthy and connected.
AR and VR will Add New Dimensions
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are like the tech wizards that bring Artificial Intelligence (AI) to life. They’re the magic that connects our real world with the online universe, offering us incredible virtual adventures.
AR and VR are the mobile app industry trends that will make waves in 2024, particularly in gaming, entertainment, education, and healthcare.
These technologies are changing the way we do everyday stuff. You can shop using AR, tour museums or art galleries from your couch, relive epic historical moments, measure things with a tap, and so much more. Plus, businesses are using AR and VR to grab your attention and stand out from the crowd.
To put it simply, AR and VR transform your smartphone into a gateway to limitless experiences, like having a superpower in your pocket.
Predictive Analytics will be More Profound
Predictive analytics has stealthily influenced various sectors, including its impact on mobile apps. Let’s dissect how prominent companies are utilizing it.
- Netflix: You know those spot-on movie and TV show recommendations? Predictive analytics makes it happen. Netflix analyzes your viewing history to suggest content that aligns with your preferences, creating a personalized binge-watching experience.
- Amazon: Ever wondered why Amazon suggests products you’re actually interested in buying? Predictive analytics is the secret sauce. Amazon uses it to tailor product recommendations based on your past purchases and browsing behavior, making your shopping journey smoother and more satisfying.
- Spotify: Your daily playlist seems to know your musical soul. That’s predictive analytics in action. Spotify curates playlists based on your music taste and listening habits, enhancing your music discovery.
- Uber: When Uber estimates your ride’s arrival time, it’s not just a guess. Predictive analytics factors in traffic patterns, weather, and historical data to provide accurate ETAs, ensuring you reach your destination on time.
- LinkedIn: Ever receive a “People You May Know” notification? Predictive analytics analyzes your connections, job history, and interests to suggest potential contacts, helping you expand your professional network.
In 2024, more businesses will use predictive analysis to analyze user behavior and make suggestions based on those analytics. Predictive analytics is stepping into the spotlight in mobile app development in two important ways:
- Streamlining Development: Companies are using data from developers to spot issues before they cause trouble. It’s like fixing a leaky roof before it ruins your day. Predictive analytics helps find problems early and suggests smarter solutions.
- Enhancing User Experiences (UX): Businesses are getting super smart with their data. They use it to predict what you’ll do next in their app and make your journey super personalized. It’s like having a butler who knows exactly what you need.
To put it concisely, predictive analytics optimizes mobile app functioning, saving time and delivering a personalized, fantastic experience.
Rise of AI and ML
In 2024, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are set to revolutionize mobile app development, creating even smarter and more personalized user experiences.
AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants are poised to become incredibly sophisticated, engaging in natural conversations and offering tailored recommendations. Apps will tap into user data to provide custom content and services, making them indispensable.
AI and ML are inseparable partners. ML empowers AI to grow smarter by learning from extensive data, recognizing intricate patterns, and making precise predictions and decisions. They’re a dynamic duo.
Natural Language Processing (NLP), a branch of AI, enables machines to comprehend and generate human language. This underpins virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa, language translation services such as Google Translate, and applications like sentiment analysis, content recommendation, and text summarization.
AI and ML are set to elevate mobile apps, making them more intuitive and responsive to individual needs. They are the driving force behind a tech revolution, constantly learning and adapting to enhance the digital experience.
Internet of Things (IoT) – 2024 and Beyond
The Internet of Things (IoT) is not just another tech trend; it’s a transformative force reshaping industries like healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture. But, what exactly is IoT?
It connects everything, so you can control almost anything using these smart systems.
IoT goes beyond being a flashy gadget; it’s becoming a fundamental component of our daily lives. We’re looking at over 64 billion connected devices by 2025.
Picture smart homes, smart cities, smart transportation, healthcare, and farming. It’s like everything gets a digital makeover, making things work better, cost less, and be more eco-friendly.
As we roll towards 2024, IoT keeps evolving. New tech and ideas will pop up, bringing fresh chances for innovation and growth.
Whether you’re a business entity or just an individual, gear up for this evolution. IoT is poised to enrich life, introducing greater intelligence, efficiency, and connectivity.
Voice Search will Continue to Rise
Forget typing your search queries; it’s time to talk to your device. Voice search is a transformative force in app development, and it’s here to stay. Projections indicate that the global voice recognition market will achieve a substantial $27.16 billion by 2026.
Why is voice recognition so popular? Well, imagine not having to type out your questions on Google or open apps manually. Voice search simplifies tasks via spoken instructions.
Voice assistants are a game-changer in various apps, even in complex areas like banking and healthcare. Here are some cool examples:
- Healthcare: Doctors can use voice recognition to quickly record patient information, improving accuracy and saving time.
- Navigation: In-car voice assistants help you find directions and even control music while keeping your eyes on the road.
- Smart Homes: You can control lights, thermostats, and appliances with voice commands, making your home super smart and convenient.
So, voice search isn’t just a tech fancy; it’s making life easier, more efficient, and hands-free. It’s a trend worth keeping an ear out for!
Blockchain Will Influence Mobile Apps
In 2024, mobile apps are getting a blockchain boost for better security and transparency. Here’s why it’s a big deal:
- Strong Security: Blockchain makes your data super secure. It’s nearly impossible to hack or tamper with, which is crucial in finance, healthcare, and supply chain management.
- Transparency Rules: With blockchain, everyone can see what’s happening. This reduces disputes and fraud. For instance, in supply chain management, you can trace where your products come from, building trust.
- Efficiency and Savings: Blockchain speeds things up and cuts costs. Smart contracts automatically do tasks when certain conditions are met. In finance, cross-border payments happen in seconds, not days.
- No Central Weakness: Unlike regular databases, blockchain can’t fail easily. Even if part of the network goes down, it keeps working. This is vital in sectors like energy distribution.
- Data Integrity: Blockchain keeps a secure record of ownership and data history. It’s great for artists and inventors to protect their work and to ensure fair elections.
- Tracking Everything: Many industries benefit from blockchain’s ability to track goods. In food, you can check product safety. In pharma, it fights counterfeit drugs.
- Cross-Tech Harmony: Blockchain works well with other tech, like IoT and AI. It keeps IoT data safe and makes AI more trustworthy.
But, there are challenges, like scaling up and energy use. Governments are also figuring out how to regulate blockchain. Despite the hurdles, blockchain in mobile apps is opening doors to exciting new possibilities.
Faster Web Pages with Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP)
AMPs are like speed champions for the web. They’re a project from Google and Twitter, and their job is to make web pages load super quickly. How? By trimming away all the extra stuff that slows things down.
AMPs make web pages load in less than a second, and they use way less data than regular pages. It’s like hitting the fast-forward button on the web.
So, what’s the deal for app development? Well, AMPs won’t replace apps entirely, but they’ll push out the not-so-great ones.
With the rise of progressive web apps and streaming apps, some apps might start using AMP tricks instead of crowding the App Store or Google Play. This means you’ll see more apps that work great on mobile and load super-fast. It’s a win-win!
Edge Computing will Boost Mobile App Performance
Edge computing is a game-changer for mobile app development in 2024. Instead of sending data far away to big data centers, edge computing processes it closer to where it’s needed. This means apps run faster and respond quicker.
Why is this a big deal? Well, in things like gaming and self-driving cars, speed matters. Edge computing helps apps react in real-time. It’s like having lightning-fast reflexes.
Edge computing is a new way of handling data. Instead of shipping it to faraway places, it processes data closer to where it’s created – like on IoT devices or local servers. This brings some cool perks:
- Less Waiting: Data doesn’t travel as far, so apps work faster. Great for things that need instant responses, like self-driving cars and augmented reality.
- More Privacy: Your data stays closer to home. That’s a plus for privacy and security. It’s like keeping your secrets in your own backyard.
- Data Efficiency: Edge computing makes apps use less data. This is awesome, especially with all the talk about data privacy.
In a nutshell, edge computing is like turbocharging your apps. They’ll be faster, safer, and more efficient, which is a win-win for everyone using mobile apps.
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) – Future of Mobile Apps
PWAs are the new entrants in mobile app development. They offer the advantages of both web and native apps, combining ease of use with speed. In 2024, their popularity is set to increase.
PWAs are exceptional because they work flawlessly on screens of any size.
The user-friendly nature of PWAs allows them to be added to your home screen without app store downloads. It’s quick and easy, with no app store hassle.
PWAs have been adopted by large enterprises, and 2024 is likely to witness an increase in their popularity.
To summarize, PWAs are the future of mobile apps. They are compatible with any device, function offline, and provide incredible convenience. Get ready for their increased presence in the coming year!
Beacon Technology Will Make Your Phone Smarter
Beacons are like magic helpers for your phone. They’re tiny, wireless gadgets that can send special messages and ads to your phone when you’re nearby. Think of them as super-friendly Bluetooth devices.
Here’s how they work: When your phone gets close to a beacon, they chat with each other. This chat can make your phone do cool stuff like opening an app or showing a notification.
Businesses love beacons. They use them in museums, stores, and even sports stadiums to give you a personalized experience. For instance, when you’re checking out a museum, beacons can tell you extra cool facts about the stuff you’re looking at.
Beacons can also help apps learn about what you like and how you behave. This info can be used later to make your experience even better. Just remember, while beacons are awesome, we should always think about keeping our info safe and private.
Low-Code and No-Code Will Make Building Apps Easier
Imagine making apps without spending ages writing code – that’s what low code and no code are all about, and they’re super trendy right now. Some folks even say they’re the future of making apps, and they might be right!
So, what are these low-code and no-code things? Well, low code is like using smart tools and shortcuts to build apps faster. No code takes it a step further – you can create apps without typing a single line of code.
According to Gartner, by 2024, more than 65% of apps worldwide will use these technologies.
But how do they work? It’s like building a puzzle. You pick and connect reusable pieces that do different jobs, and voila! Your app comes to life. It’s way easier than writing lines of code for every little thing.
The best thing about low-code and no-code? They let developers focus on the fun stuff instead of boring tasks. It’s like having a superpower for making apps!
Other than these trends, there are several other trends that will shape the mobile app development industry in 2024.
Some of such transformative trends are mCommerce, dedicated apps for foldable devices, on-demand apps like food and grocery apps, P2P payment apps, gaming and entertainment apps, touchless and camera-focused apps, and location-based apps are expected to take the mobile app industry by storm in 2024.
Check out staffing solutions to hire a mobile app developer and gear up for 2024.