The Future of Smartphone Apps

Tags: python, javascript, ios
Published: 2019-10-09 20:46:30



Within the last few years, the number of mobile phone users has skyrocketed. Cellular technology is more than just a mobile phone, as the bulk of devices in use across the globe are considered smartphones. One of the earliest smartphones to hit the market was the Blackberry, a phone uniquely designed to merge work and home life connectivity. Although it made huge strides in connecting professionals to their jobs even when away from the office, the rest of the world demanded their own innovative cellular upgrade. The popularity of the Apple iPhone is still going strong, as they have released [eighteen versions of the phone](https://www.iphonelife.com/content/evolution-iphone-every-model-2007-2016) since the first one was sold in 2007. Samsung, Google, and OnePlus have all released their own smartphone versions, and still, the global public hasn’t had enough. The staying power behind smartphones is largely due to the customization of functionality through downloadable applications(or apps).

Cellular phones aren’t just about making calls or sending text messages anymore. The different apps on the phones allow you to manage your schedule, check your fitness goals, watch a sports game, navigate social media, and shop for just about anything you want. The handheld devices known as smartphones are backed by some serious technology and invention, such as Android, iOS, ColorOS, and memory services through cloud-based services for users and [firebase python](https://hackbrightacademy.com/blog/heating-firebase-tutorial-integrate-firebase-app/) support for app developers. The apps are only functional when the operating system can support their design and structure, and both smartphone engineers and app designers are continually working to upgrade their products for a more seamless and bug-resistant connection. Given the importance of apps to consumerism and the lifestyle of the global citizens, retailers and industry giants are turning more attention to app usage for brand awareness and consumer engagement. Because of this, there are some trends predicted for mobile apps over the next few years.

Wearables and IoT

By the year 2020, there will be an estimated 26 billion connected devices in operation around the world. These connected devices include household appliances that can be controlled from an app, such as the refrigerator, crockpot, television, sound system, security monitoring, or any other piece of equipment that will rely on Bluetooth technology to give homeowners more control of their home. There is also likely to be more explosive growth in the area of wearables, which is projected to be a $661 billion dollar industry by the year 2021. As the devices will need more storage to remain connected to these different areas, it is only natural to assume that cloud technology will improve and expand as well.

Augmented Reality

Many people have heard of the opportunities with virtual reality, and its development will go hand in hand with improvements made to augmented reality (AR) experiences. When [Pokémon Go](https://www.express.co.uk/entertainment/gaming/1186908/Pokemon-Go-loading-screen-crossover-anime-TV-series-Team-Rocket-Giovanni-Viridian-City) first came on the scene in 2016, it changed the face of mobile app gaming. However, this isn’t the only area where AR can be a player. Industries like real estate, retail, and healthcare have also seen the potential for incorporating AR/VR into their previously more traditional apps. Businesses are just now seeing the potential with this technology.

Mobile Commerce

Many people have been using the apps on their phones to manage their bank accounts, their credit card payments, or to send money through apps like Paypal, Square, or Cash. However, in the future, it is predicted that more people will rely on their phones as a payment source more than they would their debit or credit card. Apps like Apple Pay and Google Wallet will continue to drive mobile payment options, and with wearables like an Apple Watch in the discussion, people may discontinue carrying a wallet at all.

Phone Storage

Because there is a limited amount of storage space on a smartphone, apps will rely more heavily on cloud-based hosting and storage. Growth is slated to rise to about 90% of all mobile data traffic occurring within cloud-based apps. This will take up less space on a user’s smartphone, but still offer all the information or storage needed.

Mobile technology will continue to develop to meet the demand of consumers. Apps are a part of everyday life for most individuals, and it seems that this trend will only increase.