Mobile application development has always been a hot topic due tosmartphone breakthroughs extolling mobile apps with improved characteristics and of course due to recent advances in hybrid applications. There are officially more smartphones (7.22 billion smartphones around the globe) than the people in the entire world, and the number of gadgets keepsincreasing; Tablets, smartphones, AI, environmental sensors, wearables, and all the other recent advances are fueling the biggest revolution since the introduction of the internet and PC. All of which are the epitome of the new emerging technologies; reshaping the world we live in, the way we think, how we perform certain tasks, and more. It looks like 2017 will be more thrilling for mobileconsumers, developers, and entrepreneurs than we can possibly imagine. Here are some mobile app development trends for 2017:
Top Trends in Mobile App Development
Space Saving Features
Smartphone users often complain about the lack of space on their devices, which results in downloading less apps or uninstalling the present ones. To eliminate this trouble, developers are considering on-demand resources and app streaming which will reduce the app installation barrier. For instance, a user will be able to run certain apps instantly without downloading or installing them. This will not only save memory space, but also restrict data usage. Google has already announced “Android Instant,” an exacting feature that enables Android apps to run instantly without the need to download and install. Currently, it is in Beta stage, but it will surely become a common trend in 2017.
Interactive Push Notifications
The next trend that will emerge in 2017 is the implementation of interactive push notifications. Push notifications provide numerous solutions to interact with users; however, these applications usually cannot take action. For instance, responding to an application message without opening its app. This actionable step as well as other interactive features can be achieved through the use of Augmented Reality, AR, into certain apps.Augmented Reality refers to a technology that aims to develop information systems that integrate digital information seamlessly with real world information.WhatsApp is the perfect example of AR incorporation in a mobile messaging app; you can respond to any WhatsApp messages without even opening the main app. Theconcept of interactive push notifications is improving, and it will surely become the most promising expedient for encouraging user experience.In 2017, apps with interactive push notification will dominate the app market. The use of Augmented Reality in apps sounds fascinating, how about using Augmented Reality for integratingmultiple apps into one?
App Integration
In the above-mentioned section, we have discussed how basic push notifications are becoming interactive ones using Augmented Reality. In 2017, multiple apps will interact with each other using AR; one app will support the features of the other apps, eliminating the need of additional apps. The entire world of mobile development is going to change because of the scintillating integration of certain applications.We have already seen different applications interact with each other like Uber has integrated with messaging app and navigation app. We will soon be able to book a cab from Facebook or via text based conversations in which an Uber bot (data crawler–text or audio based) will be integrated within the app. This trend will certainly cut down the number of icons on mobile screens, as well as free mobile users from the necessity to download/install further apps. Saving more data, time, and eliminating the cluster of icons from the home screen. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies are already applied for making travel apps, and various sales tools, as well as for live streaming.
Apple Watch Apps Development
Since its launch in 2015, this spectacular smart-watch is gaining popularity due to its unique features, slack app notifications, and feature rich apps that are becoming more self-sufficient and independent from the iPhone. With the number of new and innovative apps increasing daily, every sort of business is targeting applications for getting enormous progress and growth in their business.In future years, the market for the Apple Watch Apps Development will get huge successand people will eventually startenjoying its positive aspects.
Cloud Technology
Cloud technology is swiftly expanding in the marketby offering cross-platform structure for the applications that are made using it. Apps that are based on cloud can run on mobile platforms, providing the same data as well as the features. Developers are now aiming to provide synchronization and integration facility in the applications to support many platforms. This will build a strong and reliable relation between mobile apps and cloud computing.
Hybrid HTML5
Hybrid HTML5 will also become a common trend in 2017; it will get a great exposure in the market because it is capable of providing the best user experience. Developers will get a better platform for app development and they will likewise develop such applications that will make users comfortable when they use/see it. It is a great opportunity for developers to get into the HTML5 app development, because the future will be all about hybrid applications that can work on different platforms.
Embedded AI Within Apps
Developers have started to enable Artificial intelligence and machine learning into their apps; For example, Prisma App (Prisma labs inc.) uses AI to transform images into a number of artistic effects. This smart implication is going to change how the app industry works. AI is not restricted tophoto filters anymore, developers can now implement AI in self-learning apps too. Soon we will be able to experience customized content within apps based on personal preferences. In future years, apps will show location specific data, behave according to the user preferences, and shift data centers to everyday devices. All thanks to the artificial intelligence, AI.
IoT and mobile apps
The potential of the Internet of Things (IoT) and apps is remarkable and is setting down deep roots. The apps extend from the energy sector to smart healthcare, security, transportation systems, the list is endless. Integration of IoT with mobile apps is advancing through the storm and taking what is possible to the next level. IoT is booming (read exploding). It consists of billions of smart devices– from mammoth machines to minuscule chips. According to IDC (Intel Development Center), we’ll go from two billion objects to an estimated 200 billion by 2020.
Focus on Application Security
We all know that technology is moving at breakneck speed; however, still many mobile security issues/breaches are present either due to app misconfiguration or due to installationof untrusted apps. Furthermore, there is always the ground reality that many individuals do not take mobile security as seriously as they should. These are escalating security concerns for mobile app developers as well. So, the app security is going to be a priority in 2017.
In 2017, the World Mobile Applications Market will reach $77 billion and continue its growth (Estimated $101 billion by 2020). According to Gartner, an American research and advisory firm, less than0.1% of all mobile applications will be commercially successful. Do not lose hope because the very notion of success has changed over time. With growing adoption of smartphones & gadgets and multiple app monetization strategies, mobile applications have become a new channel of customer acquisition, and that is why app security and user experience design (UX &UI) are more important than ever.