Introduction
Technology has been on the rise over the past decade and is showing no signs of stopping. In particular, mobile apps have been some of the hottest products on the market. Let's take a look at mobile app growth statistics in 2020 and what this means.
1. Statistics in 2020
As we all know, 2020 has been a very unpredictable year so far. With COVID-19, the state of things is in turmoil, and the future is uncertain as well. With more time on their hands, people have been using certain apps more frequently. Games and entertainment apps have seen massive surges this spring.
While stuck at home during quarantine, users have enjoyed strategy games and movies. On the other hand, productivity apps have not faired so well. Although some workplaces have moved online, the unemployment rate has also risen. People are delaying tasks for later, possibly when society safely returns to normal.
Considering all of the above, we have to take mobile app growth statistics in 2020 with a grain of salt. Statistics have been inflated recently and will continue to see anomalies as the year progresses. It's not a bad idea to look at trends from previous years and see whether they align with that of recent months. If you're looking at how to make an app or how to build an app, look for trustworthy statistics.
2. Mobile app growth
As mentioned, mobile apps have seen tremendous growth over the past few years. From 2019 to 2020, users now spend an average of 14 extra minutes on these mobile apps. The figure now stands at an average of three hours and 49 minutes.
Considering how busy our lives are between work, travel, and exercise, this is quite an impressive statistic. People are turning to mobile apps for the most routine tasks such as shopping lists and basic numerical calculations.
This year, there will now be over 200 billion mobile app downloads for the first time ever. A download is counted whenever a user installs a new mobile app onto his or her device. Experts attribute this to the sheer number of apps on the market. Users are downloading multiple versions of apps with similar functionalities, testing them out, and sticking with the one they prefer.
This is all the more incentive to create an app with a beautiful interface and standout efficiency. You need to stay on top of the game against competitors.
In 2020, the average user checks his or her phone 63 times per day. People are glancing at their phones for the latest updates and news about their friends or society. In particular, the user's home screen is the most important part of an app.
If there is something interesting to be found from this home screen, they are more inclined to dive deeper into the app and accumulate more screen time. Usage definitely depends on the age of the user and their overall phone habits. Nevertheless, we can conclude that people are checking their phones more than ever. That works out to be over twice per hour!
3. Apps statistics
Some apps have seen incredible growth in 2020. WhatsApp has surged in popularity with 3 billion downloads and is now one of the top apps on the market. Users are impressed by its free, secure messaging and calling. As opposed to other messaging apps, WhatsApp has no hidden fees no matter how many connections you make.
Uber has also made its name with 300 million downloads. More and more members of the community are turning to Uber for a quick ride to and from the market or library. This is an example of a useful product that is supported by an efficient app.
Finally, Bitmoji has taken off as one of the most popular emoji apps in existence with 300 million downloads. Its emojis are compatible with all keyboards and all mobile devices, so there are no further installations necessary.
Conclusion
The statistics of common mobile apps in 2020 are off the charts and nearly unbelievable. Mobile apps are becoming staples of society, and your new mobile app could easily top the charts with the right advertising. Take a look at the most downloaded apps and notice what traits make them so desirable.
Founder of JumpGrowth & serial entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in IT & Mobile App Development; worked with people from diverse cultures and countries. Extensive experience in business management, P&L responsibility, team management, outsourcing, deal negotiations, pre-sales support.
