A new report by mobile app research group, App Annie, has revealed that 2016 was a big year for mobile applications.
Researchers have found that downloads around the world have increased by 15% from 2015 to 2016. In addition, the time spent in apps have grown by 25%, which in turn led to higher revenues for both Google Play and the iOS App store. In fact, analysts report a revenue increase of 40% in comparison to last year.
Analysts explain that this increase in revenue and mobile app downloads stem from China. According to the report, China is the largest country in terms of iOS App store revenue in 2016.
The report goes on to highlight the fact that mobile gaming apps accelerated app store revenues. Researchers point out that the response towards Pokémon Go was incredible with engagement on the app as high as the 19 next most popular mobile gaming apps combined. Analysts explain the success of Pokémon Go highlights the start of augmented reality mobile apps.
Meanwhile, app based shopping also increased. Time spent on shopping apps increased by 30% from 2015 to 2016 in the U.S. especially right before the holidays.
The App Annie report also reports that the average smartphone user uses over 30 apps every month. In fact, China followed by India mobile users used nearly 40 apps every month.
So what’s next for the mobile app industry? Analysts explain that 2017 is going to be even bigger year than 2016.
“As technology and business models continue to evolve, apps will play an even greater role in transforming, disrupting and creating opportunities for companies and industries both old and new.”
This news comes after a report revealed that December was a huge month for Apple’s mobile app sales. Talking to The Verge Phil Schiller, the Senior VP of Worldwide Marketing at Apple, noted that the App store had $3 billion in revenue in December alone. This number included subscription fees, in-app purchases, and paid downloads. In addition, App Store earnings from China rose by 90% in 2016 in comparison to 2015.