The last decade has seen a monumental shift in the app industry, moving from a novel market to a core element of digital life. Around 2015, the app economy was a thriving space, with global revenue nearing $70 billion. The focus was on simple utility apps, social platforms, and mobile games.
By 2020, the pandemic accelerated digital adoption, making apps indispensable. Global app revenue skyrocketed past $300 billion. This period saw a rise in on-demand services, remote work tools, and health apps.
As of August 2025, the industry’s growth is sustained and more refined. The market is projected to reach an incredible $700 billion globally. Today’s users demand seamless experiences, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now key, powering personalized recommendations and predictive analytics. The lines between web and app are blurring, with progressive web apps (PWAs) offering app-like functionality without a download.
Are Businesses Creating More or Fewer Apps
The trend isn’t about creating more apps in sheer numbers, but rather creating more strategic apps. Early on, some companies built apps just to say they had one, often resulting in underutilized and poorly maintained products.
Now, the approach is calculated. Companies invest in apps only when they can offer a unique, indispensable service that genuinely enhances the customer journey. For example, a global retailer with loyalty programs and in-store navigation would benefit from an app, whereas a small local business might not. The focus is on fewer, higher-quality, feature-rich apps that truly serve a purpose and drive engagement, not on a basic, redundant proliferation.
Should Businesses Invest in Apps?
Deciding whether to build an app depends on your business goals and the value it can provide.
Reasons to Invest:
- Enhanced Customer Experience: Apps can offer personalized content, exclusive deals, and streamlined purchasing.
- Direct Communication: Push notifications provide an immediate way to reach users.
- Data & Insights: Apps offer valuable data on user behavior, helping you refine strategies.
- Competitive Advantage: A well-designed app can differentiate your business from competitors.
- Increased Sales: Easy access to products and in-app offers often lead to higher conversion rates.
Reasons to Reconsider:
- High Costs: Developing and maintaining a quality app requires significant financial investment.
- User Acquisition: Getting users to download and regularly use a new app is challenging in a saturated market.
- Limited Functionality: If a mobile-optimized website can easily handle your business needs, an app might be an unnecessary expense.
Ultimately, you should invest in an app if it solves a real customer problem, offers significant value beyond a website, and fits into your long-term digital strategy.
Partner with Stratik for Your Digital Needs
In this dynamic app landscape, having a reliable and expert partner is crucial. Stratik is an industry leader in app creation, with an international team of experts dedicated to building innovative mobile solutions. Whether you’re a business leader considering your first app or aiming to revolutionize your digital presence, Stratik provides the expertise to bring your vision to life. If you’re ready to create your own app but don’t have the expertise, we’ll get you all set. Contact us at info@stratik.us and schedule a chat with a Stratik representative—let’s transform your digital future together!
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