The number of mobile app users is growing on a global scale, and Google Play delivers the largest amount of worldwide app downloads, according to Statista. In 2019 the total number of apps downloaded reached 21.3 billion. Due to the similarities between the Canadian and the United States market, international brands often turn to Canada to run primary launches before expanding into the global market.
What Do Canadians Expect from Their Android Apps?
Security continues to be an important factor in app development. Canadian consumers are using mobile devices for almost every aspect of their lives, from banking to social media, and data protection is a priority. Howard Solomon, contributor for IT World Canada, suggests that smartphone and laptop users update their software regularly to defend against cyber threats and hack attempts.
With personal information now being stored on mobile devices, consumers put their trust in developers to protect their privacy, so they can continue to use their devices with ease. Responsible app developers are therefore encouraged to update their features and ensure their code is up-to-date.
Mobile users value simplicity and efficiency when it comes to the apps they choose. Removing unnecessary features allows for a streamlined user experience. Applause suggests looking at the app’s UI; considering the size of the logos, buttons, and whether or not users can reach every aspect of the app with one hand, as screen sizes continue to increase.
Developers are creating new ideas every day, so an overcrowded market should not deter businesses looking to create for an Android mobile device. In order to find your unique place in the market, researching current trends among users is a crucial step to ensuring your app will be well received in an increasingly competitive sector. If you’re looking for an Android app developer in Toronto, for example, look for a company that understands what Toronto app users are actually looking for.
Another growing problem worth exploring is the battery issues that inefficient apps can cause. If an app incorporates images, the size and download speed can hinder a device’s battery life, impeding a user’s ability to use their mobile device without charging its battery mid-task.
Larger images require more data to be obtained from the backend, affecting both battery life and the amount of data usage available. Repeatedly running and monitoring apps during development is crucial to testing the battery and data components.
Apps Currently Dominating the Market
Canadians are using their mobile devices for both business and entertainment. Android users are downloading apps that provide services ranging from banking, fitness, delivery services, and a host of additional conveniences.
Flipp
Saving money on everyday items like groceries is just one of the reasons why Canadians are downloading Flipp’s all-in-one mobile app. Generating over 10 million downloads, Flipp offers users the ability to save money on their weekly shopping, with coupons and deals from retailers like Walmart, Sobeys, and Canadian Tire. Customers can access shopping lists, coupons, and loyalty cards in one place. Flipp’s streamlined process and free downloads provide mobile users with the convenience they need.
Kijiji
Kijiji’s mobile presence is a popular choice for Canadians, with more than 5 million downloads, according to App Brain. As Canada’s largest classifieds app, Kijiji allows users to sell and purchase a host of products and services — ranging from apparel to home goods, and even larger items like vehicles or real estate. The app features a clean user interface, streamlined links, and an efficient chat feature where users can keep in contact with potential buyers or sellers.
Spotify
When it comes to entertainment, Spotify continues to reign as a leading music provider for Google Play users. With close to 4 million downloads, Canadian music fans can access their personal library, saved playlists, and offline downloading capabilities. It’s vast selection and listening quality allow Android users to enjoy a seamless music experience.
New Advances in Android Compatibility
The advancement in Android app development extends past mobile devices. Wearable tech has its place in the growing market; in fact, Spotify unveiled its plans to offer its features on smartwatches in 2018. Users can control music playback, select favourite songs which are then added to their user library, and use Spotify Connect to reach other compatible devices.
According to Similar Web, the app is currently holding the number two spot in the Google Play Store. Other music platforms like Shazam and iHeart Radio also have their place in this growing market.
Instant Mobile Technology: A Growing Trend
Instant mobile apps are a newer feature quickly gaining traction in the Android market, as well. Instant apps are a feature that lets consumers use the app without having to fully download it. PC World defines it as a hybrid between the speed and power of native apps, with the ease and urgency of a web app. Buzzfeed, Skyscanner, and NYTimes Crossword Puzzle are just a few of the instant apps available for Android users. Google’s app store will include a “Try It Now” feature for any compatible applications.
What Are the Challenges and Benefits for Android App Developers?
Android mobile devices run on a different operating system than Apple products. Entrepreneur notes that it’s important to pay attention to the OS limitations and requirements like screen resolution. They suggest focusing on responsive designing, and testing your app through every stage to ensure its compatibility with Android smartphones, and to ensure that your users will be happy along each step of the user journey.
Mobile users expect efficient performance and robust battery life when they select a new application. The challenge becomes running an app with the necessary functions and features that won’t crash, and will consume as little battery life as possible.
When these factors are taken into consideration, the benefits that come with developing for Android devices can be abundant. Android freely provides its SDK — Software Development Kit — to the developer community which reduces licensing and development costs.
And when it comes time to get your app to market, the right developer will access numerous sales channels available; developers can access third-party applications, like Google Android Market, but they can also use their own distribution and sales channels.
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