Mobile app development trends that impact organisations

Mobile apps are changing the way we interact and conduct business in many industries, with wide applications such as wearables, savvy electrical appliances, medicinal services, robotics, machinery and autonomous vehicles.

As networks become faster and connectivity more reliable on a global scale, mobile apps are moving towards adopting the latest disruptive technologies such as the Internet of things (IOT), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI) or blockchain.

Here is how the latest mobile app development trends can boost organisations' bottom lines:

1. The Internet of things (IOT)

The IOT enables physical devices, appliances, vehicles and equipment to connect and exchange data by adding electronics and sensor technologies in these non-IT gadgets.

Notably, there is a growing demand and interest in mobile apps and IOT development tools to capture and manage everyday data efficiently. Custom IOT mobile apps can have a surging effect in industrial applications and business operations.

IOT-enabled vehicles, machinery and devices can successfully assist in streamlining interconnected operations such as transport, logistics, and so forth. A good example is the RTVN (real-time value network) supply chain model.

2. Artificial intelligence (AI)

AI represents the next step in intelligent mobile apps. Current developments include hardware optimisation to enable AI on devices and AI chatbots for mobile applications.

For example, chatbots embedded in mobile apps that respond to and understand human interaction can improve communication and contribute to more accurate feedback, ultimately leading to a better and faster decision-making process.

Still in its infancy, artificial intelligence has a promising future in impacting business advancement, notably through verification, validity, security and control. The future belongs to business networks capable of intelligent response that maximises speed and efficiency, and minimises human error.

3. Blockchain and mobile payments

Mobile payments are not new. With the increase in mobile devices and e-commerce, mobile banking and mobile payment exchanges have become popular among consumers and businesses going through a digital transformation.

However, blockchain is rapidly changing the process of mobile transactions through the now famously known bitcoin exchange model. The system, which includes a diverse database that maintains a record of transactions, has the potential to transform mobile transactions in business ecosystems.

4. Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR)

Virtual reality applications bring 360-degree visuals closer to the intended user. Augmented reality also offers a powerful, cutting-edge technology through the continuous combination of digital data with the end-user's environment.

As VR and AR apps are slowly becoming more common for smartphone and other mobile devices, organisations can use their visual power for comprehensive surveillance and monitoring purposes even in remote locations, as well as to enhance user experience.

5. Biometrics

Biometrics are becoming standard in smartphone and device access. The latest technologies go beyond fingerprint sensor access to Face ID. Biometrics for mobile apps assist in making financial transactions and regular data transfers more secure.

The technology is instrumental in the security of business operations and exchanges in a digitised economy, particularly in access to real-time information and sensitive data.

6. Cloud-based apps

Cloud computing has finally infiltrated the mainstream. Not surprisingly, the cloud market is poised to grow by 22% to $178 billion in 2018, according to a recent Forbes report.

Most organisations are moving their data processes and critical business operations in the cloud to benefit from efficient operations, reduced costs in hosting, better storage, loading capacity, and better user retention.

Cloud-based business operations can use the power of cloud-based apps that run on any device to further enhance flexibility and mobility.

View a study on the mobile app economy here.

Contact Resolve Solution Partners and speak to one of the company's experienced consultants to see how its mobile technology solutions can help your organisation drive real business value.

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Editorial contacts

Cheryl van der Merwe
Resolve SP
(012) 492 1001