It's no secret that online store owners must find ways to attract new customers and retain existing ones. And what could be better for this purpose than investing in mobile app development?!
Apps Sell More Goods
Buying things with a smartphone is one of the most common phenomena today. Consumers appreciate the ability to access the online store application at any time to view new products, inquire about promotions/discounts, and find out about changes in the price of items they are interested in. Moreover, it is known that online sales peak occurs from 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM. This means that potential buyers make purchases at times when they should be going to sleep. And when the computer or laptop is already turned off, the smartphone often tempts with the option to see what's new.
The Main Reason to Create a Mobile App for an Online Store
If there is a choice between a mobile version of an online store and a mobile app, it is worth considering that although a unique template is traditionally created for the former, it does not allow designers to incorporate high-quality visual design. Developers also lose the opportunity to add informative menus, user-friendly widgets, and banners. Therefore, developing a mobile app seems more promising than creating a mobile site.
Advantages of mobile device apps:
— Utilize the maximum capabilities of the device, which is evident even in the context of purchasing goods.
— The app interface corresponds to the device interface.
— Available even without an internet connection.
— Ability to track the price of goods.
— Receive notifications as reminders.
Choice of OS: iOS or Android?
Apps for smartphones and tablets are divided into 3 types:
— Cross-platform
— Hybrid
— Native
It is worth noting that native apps best fulfill the mission of transforming an online store into an interactive platform because they have the maximum number of capabilities.
Regarding operating systems, developing an iOS app will allow you to attract new customers, who are often young people living in major cities and can boast high levels of income and, consequently, excellent purchasing power. In turn, creating an Android app promises to attract a larger audience because the Android OS is the most common OS on mobile devices. Therefore, if possible, the optimal solution would be to create an app simultaneously for both platforms.
User Expectations From a Mobile App for an Online Store
— Quick launch of the app.
— Option for one-click ordering.
— Intuitive navigation.
— Various filters and sorting options for products.
— Clear mechanism of the shopping cart with purchased items.
— Comprehensive information about the product (including price, delivery features, and customer reviews).
— A list of application features is present.
— There are elements that identify the store (recognizable logo).
Factors Affecting the Success of the App
— Detailed information about promotions, bonuses, and individual offers.
— Features that can turn ordinary browsing of the product catalog into an interactive process (selection consultant, viewing combinations, virtual try-on option for clothing, or integration of items into interior).
— Other unique features that simplify the process of purchasing goods.