March 19, 2024 Blogja.net

Here’s why mobile app development is still profitable

As per the Statista report of 2017, the iOS App Store holds 2.2 million apps while the Google Play Store boasts 3 million apps in its database. Today, we can find all types of apps that do not only provide us entertainment but also help us with work, business, studies, and personal life. Even services such as banking, e-commerce, food ordering, and flight booking have become convenient with the use of mobile apps.

However, the impressive number of apps available to the users and the immense competition from industry leaders makes one wonder whether there is room for more apps in the different App Stores. An aspiring app developer with a great ‘idea’ will also speculate if it is even profitable to venture into the market when so many apps are already popular among the users.

Surprisingly, yes it is worth considering!

Regardless of the competition in the industry, mobile app development is still profitable and it’s been gaining traction like never before.

The growing app economy

The predictions made for the app economy between the years 2016 and 2020 show that the industry will generate more revenue than ever before. According to the same reports, the global app economy will be worth $6.3 trillion by the year 2021.

Another report indicates that the global market app revenue will reach $189 billion in the coming years, whereas the overall revenue generated was $88 billion in 2016.

The use of mobile internet had successfully surpassed the use of traditional (desktop) devices way back in 2014, and today, more than 89% of consumer’s media time is dedicated to mobile apps. The mobile app industry has substantially grown over the past few years and judging from the numbers, it will grow considerably in the coming decade as well. Here is why:

Lower cost of app development

Although it is hard to predict the actual value of app development, it is safe to say that evolving technologies have reduced the price and development time of mobile apps. Furthermore, using offshore app developers such as those residing in India and Ukraine can cut costs significantly.

According to a report, the cost of a small app can range from anywhere between $3000 to $8000. Another survey of 96 mobile app developers concluded that the average price to develop an app is approximately $6,453.

Despite the cost, several monetization methods are currently available that will help cover the developmental and marketing expenses. For example, Angry Birds, an all-time favorite game by Ravio, cost around $140 million to develop. The game was available to the public in the year 2009, and by the year 2012, it had managed to bring in revenue of $200 million. And, of course, it’s been trending successfully ever since!

Users opt for in-app purchases

A quick look at the app store of both the leading operating system will show that most apps are free to download and use. This gets many wondering how do developers make money if apps come without a price tag.

Well, nowadays, it is very common to see free apps offer in-app purchases for better or enhanced features. For example, gaming apps usually keep a nominal fee to unlock bonus levels or more lives. Additionally, the app users who are often frustrated by view-obstructing ads are more than willing to pay an extra amount to eliminate ads.

Apple introduced in-app purchases to the global app industry in the year 2009. Gradually, the monetization method gained popularity, and today, more than 50% of app revenue comes via in-app purchases.

In-app advertising

The in-app advertising model works similarly to ads that we see during web browsing. The developers can join any advertising network and are reimbursed every time a user purchases through the commercials. These advertisements can appear anywhere on the screen and can take varied sizes and positions.

Ultimately, the apps that have a strong following will generate more revenue from ads. For example, 25% of iOS app developers are earning around $5,000 per month from in-app advertising, while 16% of Android developers are generating the same amount.

Free vs. paid

Lastly, the most conservative method to increase the profitability of your app is to charge for each download. Did you know that despite the downloads an average mobile user makes, he or she uses only five apps religiously? Additionally, some smartphone users report to download zero apps per month, which can significantly hamper your dreams of launching a successful app.

Businesses that have a significant customer following can charge a small price for each download that the user makes. This tactic is not only a great way to make a return on investment but also enhances the retention of users. Since the customers are more loyal to the apps that they pay for, having a paid app will reduce the chances of them uninstalling your app.

However, this protocol will only work if you are running a popular app and offering the user something in return. For example, BarMax CA is one of the most expensive apps on the iOS platform. The course assists with the California Bar exam and costs $999 to download. The Barcelona vs. Madrid game is another app that costs around $349.99 to download. The game features some high-resolution graphics and offers an exceptional gaming experience resulting in the exorbitant price tag.

App success is often unpredictable

Most mobile users are familiar with the game Bubble Ball. The game developed by a 14-year old boy with the help of his mother has been downloaded more than two million times. Developed using a software development kit and minimal investment, the game even managed to displace Angry Birds from the top rank at one point.

Thus, the Bubble Ball serves as a great example of developing a game without much money but a great idea and dedication.

Is it worth developing mobile apps?

Today, there is an app for everything. As the number of mobile users increases, the demand for new and innovative apps will also emerge. However, the consumer of today has zero-tolerance for apps that lack functionality. A spam-less app like Yarn, Bitmoji, and AirG apps are always popular with users. So, make sure you put in your time and effort when developing an app. If your app does not meet the expectations of users, they will definitely not think twice before uninstalling it all together, thus negatively affecting your profitability.

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