To say that apps are where it’s at right now at this moment seems like an understatement. Statistics show that there are more than 2.8 million apps available through the Google Play Store and another 2.2 million apps available through the Apple App Store. That is a number that is always in flux, and quite frankly, continually growing. And what’s more staggering is that mobile apps worldwide generated US$462 billion in 2019 alone, and this year is looking just as strong.
Now maybe this isn’t news to you, perhaps you are well aware of the trend that is happening where apps are concerned, and now you’re looking for a way to get your foot in the door. But how do you go about creating a mobile app that not only prompts people to download it but goes on to make you money that’s the real question? Here are some tips and advice that can help you do just that.
Free Apps vs Paid For Apps – Start with Research
An excellent place to start is by doing your research. You need to understand how apps manage to make money fully. Sure you can charge people to download the app, but that can severely limit the number of downloads you get which then determines the amount of money you can make.
This blog post discusses how free apps make money, and is written by Appetiser App Development. It provides a whole lot of insight and some general food for thought. Just because an app is free doesn’t mean you’ve cut off your source of potential income; in fact, a free app can end up generating a lot more income than a paid-for app. As Appetiser points out, in-app advertising can be the real source of money-making, but it needs to be done right.
Appetiser App Development is a company that is all about innovative solutions for the problems facing companies and individuals today. They work to build and then grow successful apps worldwide, so with that said they are a trusted source of information and valuable insight.
The App Needs to Serve a Purpose
Next, it’s time to think about what the purpose is of your app. Without this, you’ll find it pretty hard to convince people to download it, and therefore you won’t make money. Is your app meant to act as a business and be an e-commerce platform, is it meant to serve a practical use such as a productivity tool, or maybe it’s strictly for entertainment, and it’s a game you’re creating.
It would help if you were very specific about what category the app will reside in and what its purpose is.
Identify Your Target User
Now that you know what the purpose of the app is and what category it fits into, it’s time to identify your target user. This is necessary so that you create a user interface, tools, and features that will appeal to them specifically. It will also help you with branding and marketing. Creating an app that is meant for “everyone” is neither practical nor ideal.
Consider Offering In-App Purchases
One way you can get around a paid-for app and making the initial download free is to offer in-app purchases then. This gives users a choice on what they feel comfortable spending. For example, it’s widespread to create an app that has ads in it, which can lead to revenue for you, and then give users the option to disable the apps with an in-app purchase.
You are giving them total control over the type of experience they have, and either way, there is a revenue source on your end.
Ensure Your App Has a Unique Hook
Here’s another essential tip when creating an app, and that’s to ensure it has a unique hook. The app stores are crowded and an overwhelming place for users to browse through. If you don’t manage to make the trending or top download lists, then it’s easy to get lost in the mix.
This is precisely why it’s so important to give serious thought to what makes your app unique. What is the one quality, feature, tool, or experience that you can market and push to generate buzz and interest around your app?
Make Sure You’re Advertising Your App
Just as you would market any new company, you need to market your app. A great place to do this is through social networks. Chances are the person who is interested in downloading new apps is also active on various social networks, so now is the time to take advantage of this link.
A Multi-Step Process
Creating a mobile app that makes money isn’t as quick and straightforward as it may initially seem. There needs to be plenty of thought, planning, and work put into it.