There’s no denying it, the mobile apps development is one of the most important elements in the current technology market. That’s because people are increasingly dependent on their mobile phones for both practical and entertainment reasons. In fact, statistics show that in 2015 mobile app usage has grown by 58%. But it’s not texting or calls that people are addicted to, a study by Flurry showed that users are increasingly dependent on their apps, with around 332% more time being spent on personalising our phones and 125% more time spent on productivity apps. Indeed, there was an increase in every kind of app use bar gaming, which fell by 1%. Of course, all this increased app popularity means that the app market is incredibly competitive with increasing pressure for developers to create and integrate new technology into apps in order to stay current in the market. So what developments have been occurring in the world of mobile applications? Here are three of the most important additions to mobile phone technology right now:
3D TOUCH
Remember when pinch-to-zoom and swipe actions were brand new? Well, it won’t be long before 3D touch is just as integral to our mobile usage. Aimed at saving ourselves time, 3D touch allows you to add slight pressure to an app like your clock and this will bring up a set of quick options such as setting your alarm. It also allows you a ‘peek’ option. Say an email comes in, press your finger on it and you’ll get a preview, as soon as your remove your finger it will remain unopened in your inbox. The app Magic Piano has even developed this technology so that the amount of pressure applied to the keys controls the volume, providing more of a ‘real life’ experience for users. 3D touch is in development at the moment and it’s thought the next iPhone will include second generation 3D technology.
GESTURE CONTROLS
Gesture controls turn your phone from an expensive toy into an intelligent device, allowing you to control and open apps with a hand movement or even lock and unlock your device with apps like Automation Locker. The app Air Call, by Necta, even allows users to answer and reject incoming phone calls with a simple swipe of their hand but one of the most fun aspects of gesture controls is their inclusion in entertainment apps, creating a new dimension to the gaming experience. Apps like PartyPoker have integrated gesture controls in order to create a more realistic experience of playing poker. Expect to see even more companies utilising this technology in the future.
MOBILE PAYMENT
Mobile payment has recently been introduced to the public but hasn’t quite been accepted by the masses, despite the fact that it’s a superb piece of technology. Paypal, Apple Pay, and even banks are introducing ways for the public to quickly and safely pay for their goods. It’s a good idea considering many people tend to be on their phones in queues anyway. Google is even trying to innovate the technology with hands-free payment where Android users will be able to pay for their goods with a voice command. The technology is going to be introduced in America in a number of fast food restaurants such as Papa Johns and McDonald.
It’s clear that app technology at the moment is being centred towards two main areas – improving gaming experience and fun and reducing the amount of time people need to spend on everyday chores such as setting alarms and paying for goods. It’s intriguing to wonder where the development of mobile applications will take us in the next 5 or so years.
