A staggering 82% increase in mobile app downloads in the last decade speaks volumes about our reliance on smartphones and tablets. We use them for everything from shopping and gaming to managing finances and browsing the internet, averaging over 11 app interactions daily. As users become increasingly dependent on mobile apps, their expectations for design and functionality naturally rise.

 

In such a competitive landscape, where countless apps compete for user attention, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. By adapting to user preferences and incorporating innovative features, businesses can ensure their apps stand out from the crowd and deliver exceptional user experiences. Let's delve into top trends in mobile app development that are poised to shape the future of mobile app development in 2025 and beyond according to custom mobile app development company — Inoxoft.

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The Most Prominent Mobile App Development Trends

In recent years, mobile apps have become an increasingly important part of our lives. And as a result, the mobile app development industry is booming. By the end of 2024, it is expected to reach over half a trillion dollars, with downloads anticipated to grow to 288 billion.

Developing a mobile application and following top mobile app development trends can be beneficial for businesses in a number of ways:

  1. Increased brand awareness and engagement: A well-designed app can be a constant reminder of your brand in users’ pockets. Push notifications and in-app updates allow you to keep users engaged and informed about new products, promotions, and events.
  2. Improved customer service: Mobile apps can provide a convenient way for customers to get in touch with your business, ask questions, or track their orders. Features like chatbots and live support can further enhance the customer service experience.
  3. Boost sales and revenue: Mobile apps can streamline the buying process, allowing users to purchase products or services directly from their phones. They can also incentivize purchases through loyalty programs and targeted promotions within the app.
  4. Build stronger customer relationships: Mobile apps can foster a sense of community and loyalty by providing features like personalized recommendations, exclusive content, and user forums. This can help turn one-time customers into repeat buyers and brand advocates.
  5. Gain valuable business insights: As mentioned earlier, mobile app data analytics can be a goldmine for businesses. By understanding user behavior within the app, they can identify trends, optimize features, and make data-driven decisions to improve their overall strategy.

Beside that, understanding how your app performs is crucial for optimization and user engagement. Our comprehensive mobile app metrics guide equips you with the knowledge to track key performance indicators (KPIs) from the very beginning. Learn what matters most and leverage data insights to continuously improve your app and keep users coming back for more.

As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative app development trends for businesses to leverage mobile apps to achieve their goals. For now, the latest mobile app development trends are:

Top mobile app development trends in 2024

1. Artificial intelligence adoption 

AI, one of the key app development trends 2024, is playing an increasingly important role in the industry. By 2024, it is predicted that there will be about 2.3 billion downloads of mobile apps with generative AI features. The global mobile AI market is poised for explosive growth, with a projected value of USD 170.07 billion by 2032.

Mobile AI Market Size, 2022 to 2032 (USD Billion)

Using technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics will allow mobile app developers to deliver a more personalized experience in their applications. Apps will be able to learn from user behavior and take actions without explicit instruction.

For instance, AI features that can be included in a mobile app are:

  • Face detection
  • Image recognition
  • Speech recognition
  • Predictive maintenance
  • Text and image classification

These are just a few examples, and we can expect to see even more innovative AI features being incorporated into mobile apps in the future.

Inoxoft’s Experience In Developing AI-Powered Mobile Apps

Following the top mobile app development trends, Inoxoft’s team has developed a cross-platform mobile application for a company that specializes in providing HR services for enterprises, whose clients were concerned about potential wrongful termination and employee dissatisfaction. We sought a solution to promote employee well-being and reduce turnover.

Scalable Mobile Platform For Data-Driven Hr & Consultancy Services

We tackled a critical challenge faced by many organizations: preventing wrongful terminations and fostering employee satisfaction. Here’s a breakdown of the results we achieved with this tailor-made SaaS web and cross-platform mobile app:

  • Quick and clear reports: The app generates easy-to-understand reports directly accessible through the mobile app, providing instant insights.
  • Dedicated communication tool: The app fosters a culture of feedback by providing a dedicated platform for sharing tips, compliments, and complaints within teams.
  • Multilevel data analysis: Granular data analysis capabilities offer insights at various organizational levels, enabling a comprehensive understanding of company dynamics.
  • Proactive problem management: The app facilitates the identification and resolution of internal issues in a timely manner, addressing misunderstandings before they escalate.
  • Improved company culture: Leaders gain valuable insights into the true company atmosphere and employee relationships, empowering them to make informed decisions for a more positive and productive work environment.

2. AR and VR penetration

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality are generating a lot of buzz being one of the latest mobile app development trends. According to the report, the AR market size is predicted to increase to more than $198 billion by 2025. Known before as a player in the entertainment arena, offering unique and immersive experiences that traditional apps can’t replicate, AR/VR will expand its reach in other sectors as shown below:

The Diverse Potential of VR & AR Applications

Implementing AR and VR technologies into app design in any industry allows developers to create a more personalized and immersive user experience.

AR overlays the real world: it can revolutionize retail, education, and even manufacturing with its ability to overlay digital information onto the physical world. In its turn, VR creates entirely immersive worlds by transporting users to completely simulated environments, which opens doors for gaming, entertainment, and training simulations where real-world environments might be impractical or dangerous.

Their enhancements for everyday life showcase in current trends in mobile app development:

  • Virtual user manuals: You can use your phone’s camera to scan furniture and see interactive assembly instructions overlaid in real-time. AR can revolutionize user manuals, making them more interactive and user-friendly.
  • Enhanced learning: AR can transform the learning process. Imagine dissecting a virtual frog in biology class or exploring the solar system in 3D astronomy lessons. AR apps can make complex topics more engaging and visually captivating.
  • Exploration activities: Museums and historical sites are using AR to bring exhibits to life. Imagine viewing a dinosaur come alive through your phone screen or exploring the inner workings of a historical landmark with an AR overlay.
  • Live concerts: VR lets users experience live concerts from the front row, even if they’re miles away. Imagine attending a concert in Paris or Tokyo from your living room – VR makes it possible.
  • Destination navigators: VR travel apps allow users to virtually explore destinations before booking a trip. Users can experience the sights and sounds of a location, helping them decide where to go and what to see.
  • Virtual training simulations: VR is being used for highly realistic training simulations in various fields. Pilots can train in VR simulators before flying real airplanes, and surgeons can practice complex procedures in a safe, virtual environment.

Examples of AR and VR in mobile applications

TikTok filters use a combination of AR and computer vision to overlay virtual objects and effects onto the real world as seen through your phone’s camera. This technology allows users to create fun and engaging videos that can be shared with friends and followers.Future of Mobile App Development - Trends 2021

Source: TikTok Newsroom

Here’s a brief breakdown of how TikTok filters work:

  • Face detection: The filter first uses facial recognition technology to detect the user’s face in the camera frame. This helps to ensure that the effects are applied accurately and in the correct position.
  • Feature tracking: Once the face is detected, the filter tracks key facial features like eyes, nose, and mouth. This allows the filter to animate and move the effects in sync with the user’s facial expressions.
  • 3D modeling and rendering: The filter then uses 3D modeling and rendering techniques to create virtual objects and effects. These objects can be anything from animal masks to funny hats to realistic makeup transformations.
  • Compositing: Finally, the filter composites the virtual objects and effects onto the real-world video footage. This is done using a technique called chroma key, which allows the filter to remove the background of the virtual objects and blend them seamlessly with the real-world background.

3. Internet of Things (IoT)

One of the latest trends in mobile app development, IoT, refers to the growing network of physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and internet connectivity. These devices collect and exchange data, allowing them to interact with the environment and each other. According to Statista, IoT is predicted to be one of the top trending software development technologies with $1.6 trillion in 2025. 

Forecast end-user spending on IoT solutions worldwide from 2022 to 2025 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Some of the reasons IoT being in the list of mobile app development trends in 2024 include:

  • Transforming everyday experiences: IoT apps are making our lives smarter and more convenient. Imagine controlling your smart lights or thermostat from your phone, receiving real-time notifications from your security system, or monitoring your fitness tracker data through a mobile app.
  • Enhanced data collection and analysis: IoT devices generate a wealth of data. Mobile apps can analyze this data and provide valuable insights, allowing users to optimize their homes, businesses, or personal health routines.
  • Unlocking new business opportunities: Companies are leveraging IoT to improve operations, develop innovative products and services, and gain valuable customer insights. Think smart factories with self-optimizing production lines or connected cars that provide real-time traffic updates and maintenance alerts.
  • Driving mobile app development: The need to manage and interact with a growing number of connected devices is fueling the development of innovative mobile apps. Developers are creating user-friendly interfaces that make it easy for people to control their smart devices and access their data.

Here are some specific examples of how IoT and mobile apps are working together:

  • Smart homes. Apps like Google Home and Amazon Echo allow users to control smart lights, thermostats, security systems, and other connected devices in their homes.
  • Wearable technology. Fitness trackers, smartwatches, and other wearables use mobile apps to display health data, track workouts, and manage notifications.
  • Industrial IoT. Manufacturing companies are using mobile apps to monitor factory equipment, track inventory levels, and optimize production processes.

Leveraging Wearables For Performance Optimization: Inoxoft’s Sports Tracking App

Our client, a leading innovator in sports performance solutions, approached Inoxoft with a challenge: develop a mobile app that utilizes extensive data collection to improve rowing technique and boost athletic results.

Leveraging Wearables For Performance Optimization: Inoxoft's Sports Tracking App

Through a meticulously designed calibration procedure, we fine-tuned the application to differentiate between rowing strokes and extraneous movements. This involved vertical balancing and meticulously adjusting the core mathematical model – the heart of the application –  to effectively filter out data noise.

With our rowing app, coaches gain valuable insights into individual athlete performance. This data allows for personalized training plans that address specific strengths and weaknesses, ultimately leading to:

  • Improved rowing rhythm: Analyze stroke rate variability and optimize pacing for peak efficiency.
  • Enhanced stroke frequency: Evaluate and refine stroke frequency to maximize power output.
  • Technique refinement: Identify and correct technical inconsistencies that may be hindering performance.

Enhancing B2B Product Data Collaboration: Insights From Inoxoft’s Experience

Our client, a leader in data management solutions, recognized a growing need for сonsumers to get trusted info on products to buy smart, and manufacturers to get secure storage and easy updates for product details that met global standards.

We addressed these challenges by developing a robust B2B cloud platform that acts as a central hub for sharing validated product information. While the current web-based solution offers robust functionalities, incorporating mobile app development latest trends could significantly enhance accessibility and user experience for employees on the go. 

Enhancing B2B Product Data Collaboration

With our proven experience in developing cross-platform mobile applications, we can propose a seamless mobile extension for the B2B platform that would bring:

  • Increased accessibility: A mobile app allows employees to access and update product data anytime, anywhere. This is particularly beneficial for field personnel like sales representatives or quality control inspectors who may not always have access to a computer.
  • Improved efficiency: Quick access to product data on mobile devices can streamline workflows. Employees can readily answer customer inquiries, verify product information, or update inventory levels while on-site, leading to faster turnaround times.
  • Enhanced collaboration: A mobile app facilitates real-time collaboration between employees in different locations. Team members can share updates, troubleshoot issues, and stay on the same page regarding product data, fostering a more cohesive workflow.
  • Offline functionality: The app could be designed to function partially offline, allowing users to access essential product data even in areas with limited internet connectivity. This ensures uninterrupted productivity even in remote locations.

4. Cross-Platform Development

In today’s mobile world, reaching a large audience is key. And since iOS app development trends often converge with Android app development trends, with both platforms embracing similar functionalities and user experience concepts, cross-platform development has become a powerful tool for businesses.

Here’s why following cross-platform app development trends for businesses building mobile apps:

  • Reduced development costs. Сross-platform development allows you to write most of the code at once and reuse it for both platforms, which significantly reduces development costs compared to building native apps for each platform.
  • Faster time to market. With a unified codebase, development becomes more streamlined. Bugs can be fixed and features can be rolled out quicker across both platforms, allowing you to reach your target audience faster.
  • Wider market reach. By building a single app that works on both Android and iOS, you can potentially reach a much larger user base compared to developing native apps for each platform. This is especially beneficial if your target audience is spread across different operating systems.
  • Easier maintenance. Bug fixes, feature updates, and maintenance become simpler with a single codebase. You don’t need to manage and update separate codebases for each platform, reducing ongoing maintenance costs.
  • Flexibility for future development. Cross-platform development frameworks often offer flexibility for integrating native features specific to each platform. This allows you to add platform-specific functionalities in the future if needed, without having to completely rebuild the app.

React Native vs Flutter: Unveiling the Benefits and Barriers

5. Mobile payments

Mobile users are increasingly ditching cash and opting for the convenience and security of mobile payments. The CAGR of such digital wallet transactions in e-commerce is estimated to be 15 percent between 2024 and 2027. 

The mobile payment landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and emerging all the time. Here are some exciting latest trends in startup and business app development to watch for:

  • Biometric authentication: Fingerprint or facial recognition can add an extra layer of security to mobile payments.
  • Blockchain integration: Blockchain technology can create secure and transparent payment systems, potentially revolutionizing financial transactions.
  • Offline payment capabilities: Mobile payment apps are developing functionalities to allow transactions even in areas with limited internet connectivity.

Delicious Solution for Picky Eaters: Yumble Food Delivery App

A healthy meal delivery service for kids partnered with Inoxoft to create a user-friendly app for parents to order and manage deliveries. One of the challenges was creating an app to easily order healthy meals, track deliveries, and customize menus for their kids’ preferences, which included secure online payment options and the ability to leave feedback on specific dishes. Another challenge — building a robust management system to handle user profiles, orders, payments, subscriptions, geo-based pricing, delivery logistics, and analyze customer data.

Challenges Developing Yumble Food Delivery App

Inoxoft’s team developed a comprehensive mobile app featuring:

  • Ordering module. Parents can easily browse menus, customize selections, and schedule deliveries tailored to their children’s preferences.
  • Administration module. Yumble managers have complete control over user profiles, orders, payments, and menu management tools.

Our expertise in eCommerce app development has empowered Yumble to transform mealtimes for families. This delicious solution proves that healthy eating and convenience can go hand-in-hand.

6. Secure ecosystem

Data security and privacy protection remain a top mobile app development trend, with its importance continuing to grow. Mobile devices are increasingly targeted by hackers due to the vast amount of personal and financial data they store, with New attack methods emerging constantly. For instance, at the end of 2023, almost half a million malicious installation packages were detected on mobile devices worldwide. 

Reasons businesses must focus on prioritizing user trust and data protection are obvious:

  • Data breaches can be devastating. A data breach can expose sensitive user information, leading to financial losses, identity theft, and reputational damage for businesses.
  • Users demand security. Mobile app users are becoming more aware of security risks and prioritize apps that take data protection seriously. A secure app fosters user trust and loyalty.
  • Regulations are tightening. Data privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA are becoming stricter, mandating robust security practices for mobile apps.

Here are some key security features that are prominent app development trends in terms of security:

  • Secure authentication: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition) add an extra layer of security to user logins.
  • Data encryption: Sensitive data, both at rest and in transit, should be encrypted using robust algorithms to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Regular security updates: Developers need to address vulnerabilities promptly by releasing regular security patches and updates for their apps.
  • Secure coding practices: Following secure coding practices throughout the development process helps to minimize vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
  • Threat detection and prevention: Integrating threat detection and prevention tools can help identify and block malicious activity within the app.

HIPAA-Compliant AI System for Cardiovascular Diagnosis via Voice Analysis

A healthcare startup approached our team with a revolutionary concept: using vocal intonations to diagnose cardiovascular disease. The challenge was to create a platform that could collect patient voice data, and integrate it into a powerful AI system for disease prediction, while maintaining the highest level of security and privacy for patient information.

Throughout this process, patient privacy remained our top priority. Our team implemented stringent security measures to protect sensitive patient information, and put robust safeguards in place to guarantee the highest level of transaction security for all data transfers. HIPAA-compliant data storage ensures the security of sensitive information.

HIPAA-Compliant AI System for Cardiovascular Diagnosis

We delivered a comprehensive AI-powered solution, adhering to strict HIPAA regulations: 

  • Improved patient experience: Patients benefit from a convenient and non-invasive method for cardiovascular disease screening — a user-friendly mobile app.
  • Enhanced diagnostics for doctors: Doctors gain access through web-based platform to valuable voice data and AI-powered insights, leading to more accurate diagnoses
  • Secure data management: HIPAA-compliant data storage ensures patient privacy and information security.
  • Continuous improvement: As the database grows with patient voice records, the accuracy of voice analysis and disease prediction continues to improve.

What’s Next in Mobile App Development Trends: Our Predictions 

The mobile app landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and user demands shaping the way apps are developed and utilized. Here’s a glimpse into some new trends in mobile app development that are poised to make a significant impact in the coming years:

What’s Next in Mobile App Development Trends: Our Predictions

Cloud-based apps

Cloud-based mobile apps are becoming the dominant force shaping the mobile landscape. Leveraging the vast resources of cloud infrastructure, they can elastically scale up or down to meet real-time user demands. This ensures a consistently smooth and responsive experience for users, regardless of how many people are using the app simultaneously. Aside from that:

  • With data storage and processing handled by the cloud, users no longer need to worry about filling up their device’s limited storage space. This allows for feature-rich apps without sacrificing local storage for essential files and photos.
  • Updates and bug fixes become a breeze with cloud-based apps. They can be rolled out centrally on the cloud server, reaching all users automatically, ensuring everyone has access to the latest features and security patches.
  • An internet connection is all you need to access a cloud-based app from anywhere in the world. This eliminates geographical restrictions and promotes seamless data and functionality access. And in the future, cloud-based apps could offer limited offline functionality, allowing users to perform certain actions even without an internet connection.

Power of 5G

The arrival of 5G technology is revolutionizing mobile connectivity, paving the way for a new generation of mobile apps. With its blazing-fast data speeds, ultra-low latency, and massive network capacity, 5G opens doors for app developers to create experiences that were previously unimaginable. 

  • This technology boasts download speeds many times faster than previous generations, which significantly reduces wait times and frustration, leading to a smoother and more enjoyable user experience.
  • Its ultra-low latency means almost no delay in data transfer, which is crucial for real-time applications like cloud gaming, AR/VR, video communication, etc.
  • 5G’s massive network capacity allows for a vast number of devices to connect simultaneously. This fuels the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), where everyday objects become “smart” and interconnected. 

Foldable and flexible displays

The future of mobile apps is unfolding (pun intended) with the arrival of foldable displays. Such innovative mobile app development trends offer exciting possibilities to create a new generation of apps that redefine how we interact with technology on the go. Why are foldable displays poised to be a game-changer?

  • Foldable displays create a more immersive experience for gaming and entertainment. This expanded canvas enhances the user experience and opens doors for innovative app design in these sectors.
  • Apps can adapt their layouts and functionalities based on whether the phone is folded or unfolded. Unfolding the phone could trigger a transition to a more expansive layout, revealing additional features and functionalities.
  • Foldable displays can boost productivity by providing a more desktop-like experience. This functionality can be particularly beneficial for professionals who need to stay productive while away from their desks.

Final Words

With the appearance of new smart devices, AI development, and VR/AR capacity the app industry has a chance to become the first in terms of investment. To stay competitive, not only big-tech companies but small businesses should consider launching their own mobile applications that are customer-oriented and follow the latest market trends.

At Inoxoft, we aim to streamline your journey and turn your app vision into reality. We craft user-friendly mobile apps with cutting-edge Flutter and React Native development. With us, you’ll build high-performing apps for iOS and Android with a single codebase, saving time and money. 

Inoxoft goes beyond being a service provider; we become your partner in the mobile app journey. Want to get an app that seamlessly integrates with your existing workflows, addresses your specific challenges, and drives real, measurable results? Contact us today, and let’s unlock the potential of your idea together. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the latest technology in mobile application development?

In this article, we've highlighted six trends that are making waves: 

1) Integration of AI and ML: Apps are leveraging AI for features like personalized recommendations, smart chatbots, and enhanced image/voice recognition.

2) AR and VR: AR apps overlay digital elements onto the real world, while VR creates immersive, fully simulated environments.

3) Internet of Things (IoT): Mobile apps are becoming the central hub for controlling and interacting with a vast network of connected devices.

4) Cross-Platform Development: Cross-platform development translates to faster development times and cost savings, ensuring your app reaches users on all major mobile operating systems.

5) Mobile payments: Apps with integrated mobile payment options allow for secure and seamless purchases, eliminating the need for cash or physical credit cards.

6) Secure ecosystem: With the growing importance of user privacy, robust security measures are no longer optional — they're vital. 

What is the most trending app right now?

Instagram remains a major trendsetter in the mobile app world. Here's what keeps it sizzling:

  • Short-form video dominance. Reels, Instagram's answer to TikTok, has exploded in popularity.  This feature allows users to create and share engaging short-form videos, infused with music, effects, and creative editing tools. It caters to our fast-paced world and ever-shrinking attention spans, offering a fun and dynamic way to express yourself and consume content.
  • Evolving shopping experience. Instagram has become a powerful shopping platform. Features like Shoppable Posts and Stories allow brands and creators to showcase products and enable seamless in-app purchases. The integration of AR try-on filters further enhances the user experience, letting you virtually test out products before buying.
  • Constant innovation. The Instagram team is always innovating: they regularly introduce new features, and effects, keeping the platform fresh and engaging for users. This constant evolution ensures Instagram remains a top player in the social media landscape.

What is the next big thing in app development?

The future of mobile apps hinges on a powerful trio:

  • Cloud-powered apps that leverage the processing muscle and storage capacity of the cloud, delivering seamless experiences regardless of a device's limitations.
  • 5G's unleashed potential that unlocks real-time features like flawless video streaming, lag-free cloud gaming, and smooth AR/VR.
  • Foldable display revolution that will transform how we interact with apps, offering new ways to interact and entirely new app categories.

I am not a developer, but I have a great mobile app idea. Can low-code/no-code development help me?

Low-code/no-code platforms are fantastic for building simple apps with drag-and-drop functionality. However, for complex ideas or those requiring features like high security or intricate scalability, it's still recommended to partner with a professional app development team. They can navigate the complexities of coding and ensure your app reaches its full potential.  Just be aware that low-code options may have limitations in customization and future flexibility.