Mobile has become an integral part of modern life, and user expectations from the industry remain as high as usual. People are spending more and more time with a smartphone, and that kind of passion for smart solutions has set a high bar for mobile app developers. As 2020 is drawing to a close, it is high time to see how the domain of mobile development has changed, and what trends will be the hottest next year. As a whole, the mobile sector is literally blooming:
- The mobile app market is set to grow by 385% in 2021.
- There will be 7 billion mobile users around the world.
- By 2022, user spending on the App Store alone will increase by 92%, and that makes a whopping $157 billion.
Here at Akveo, we won’t let a single trend flow under our radar. Without further ado, let’s find out what trends will shape the industry of mobile development in 2022.
M-commerce
The hi-tech giants such as Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay have already developed their mobile wallets to the general acclaim of users. In 2019, mobile wallets generated around $6 billion in transactions worldwide. The figure is forecasted to reach $13.98 billion by 2022.
It would be safe to conclude that Apple, Google, and other payment systems will transform web-based e-commerce into mobile-first m-commerce. The majority of user interaction already happens via mobile phones. It’s logical to expect that in the years to come, mobile wallets will become an integral feature of any app dealing with transactions. According to reports, m-commerce sales will take a 53.9% share out of e-commerce sales globally in 2022. Therefore, it makes perfect sense to make your business mobile-friendly and integrate m-commerce features.
Cross-platform
The state of cross-platform mobile development has drastically changed during the last five years. The attitude towards cross-platform has changed too. The technology went mainstream, and each big player in the market has its own solution for cross-platform e.g. React Native, Flutter, Xamarin, etc.
Surely, all of these solutions have their own benefits and disadvantages. Perhaps, the biggest advantage comes with the opportunity to significantly reduce time to market and development costs without sacrificing both quality and functionality. For instance, React Native, the main technology at Akveo, is heavily used by such giants as MS, Amazon, Walmart, Bloomberg, and Tesla. In the market, emerging players such as Kotlin Native look interesting for businesses and investors too.
AI & ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning)
In 2022, the demand for AI-powered features in apps will be even higher than now. Smart alerts, notifications, and various types of content based on the understanding of user habits are already trending. For instance, a personalized search algorithm that understands what users want “here and now”. Another great use case is Apple and Google photos applications where you can search by objects on the image (via computer vision).
IoT (Internet of Things)
Already an established trend and will be dominant for the next several years. Nowadays, almost every device or gadget has Internet access, and smart devices are tangibly increasing the quality of lives. Besides, such devices are sharing lots of data that could be used for data analysis. IoT brings all technologies together, and in 2022 will see exponential growth in demand across the area of security and customer service, which is especially vital in COVID-19-influenced reality.
In this regard, the Internet of Things is considered the future of the technology world. No wonder that mobile developers are interested in integrating IoT with mobile applications. Many large corporations such as Google and Amazon have already tested the potential of this technology. In 2019, the Fitbit purchase by Google was a clear indication of this trend’s relevance in the years to come.
Context-first applications
For years, users followed the same steps in their journeys. It all starts with a search for an application in the app store, and following the installation, a user waits for the exact context to start using it. Now this pattern is gradually changing. With Instant Apps on Android and App Clips on iOS, it’s possible to start using a new app on the fly. Just scan a code, NFC tag, or open URL - and in a moment, you will have a piece of the app that could help you in no time. New technology is all about creating a better experience, and instant apps do just that.
To sum up
The advancements in technology and the life around us influence the development of trends in any domain. In 2020, companies and people have been busy adjusting their work under quarantine conditions. Given the current circumstances, the marketplace will be gradually shifting towards mobile apps that allow working, learning, and chilling out while staying at home. However, that might be the topic of our next article.
Here at Akveo, we love watching trends to analyze how the world of mobile app development is changing. In the era of digitalization, the pace of innovation is extremely fast. Thus, every software company that wants to get a share of the mobile market should be proactive and develop its business activities following the latest trends in the market.
Billing Automation for a SaaS Company with Low-Code
Our client needed a robust billing solution to manage hierarchical licenses, ensure compliance, and automate invoicing for streamlined operations.
The solution:
We developed a Retool-based application that supports multi-tiered licenses, automates invoicing workflows, and integrates seamlessly with CRM and accounting platforms to enhance financial data management.
The result:
- Achieved 100% adherence to licensing agreements, mitigating penalties.
- Automated invoicing and workflows reduced manual effort significantly.
- Dashboards and reports improved decision-making and operational visibility.
Retool Dashboards with HubSpot Integration
Our client needed a centralized tool to aggregate account and contact activity, improving visibility and decision-making for the sales team.
The solution
We built a Retool application integrated with HubSpot, QuickMail, and Clay.com. The app features dashboards for sorting, filtering, and detailed views of companies, contacts, and deals, along with real-time notifications and bidirectional data syncing.
The result
- MVP in 50 hours: Delivered a functional application in just 50 hours.
- Smarter decisions: Enabled data-driven insights for strategic planning.
- Streamlined operations: Reduced manual tasks with automation and real-time updates.
Lead Generation Tool to Reduce Manual Work
Our client, Afore Capital, a venture capital firm focused on pre-seed investments, aimed to automate their lead generation processes but struggled with existing out-of-the-box solutions. To tackle this challenge, they sought assistance from our team of Akveo Retool experts.
The scope of work
The client needed a tailored solution to log and track inbound deals effectively. They required an application that could facilitate the addition, viewing, and editing of company and founder information, ensuring data integrity and preventing duplicates. Additionally, Afore Capital aimed to integrate external tools like PhantomBuster and LinkedIn to streamline data collection.
The result
By developing a custom Retool application, we streamlined the lead generation process, significantly reducing manual data entry. The application enabled employees to manage inbound deals efficiently while automated workflows for email parsing, notifications, and dynamic reporting enhanced operational efficiency. This allowed Afore Capital's team to focus more on building relationships with potential founders rather than on administrative tasks.
Retool CMS Application for EdTech Startup
Our client, CutTime, a leading fine arts education management platform, needed a scalable CMS application to improve vendor product management and user experience.
The scope of work
We developed a Retool application that allows vendors to easily upload and manage product listings, handle inventory, and set shipping options. The challenge was to integrate the app with the client’s system, enabling smooth authentication and product management for program directors.
The result
Our solution streamlined product management, reducing manual work for vendors, and significantly improving operational efficiency.
Building Reconciliation Tool for e-commerce company
Our client was in need of streamlining and simplifying its monthly accounting reconciliation process – preferably automatically. But with a lack of time and low budget for a custom build, development of a comprehensive software wasn’t in the picture. After going through the case and customer’s needs, we decided to implement Retool. And that was the right choice.
The scope of work
Our team developed a custom reconciliation tool designed specifically for the needs of high-volume transaction environments. It automated the processes and provided a comprehensive dashboard for monitoring discrepancies and anomalies in real-time.
The implementation of Retool significantly reduced manual effort, as well as fostered a more efficient and time-saving reconciliation process.
Creating Retool Mobile App for a Wine Seller
A leading spirits and wine seller in Europe required the development of an internal mobile app for private client managers and administrators. The project was supposed to be done in 1,5 months. Considering urgency and the scope of work, our developers decided to use Retool for swift and effective development.
The scope of work
Our developers built a mobile application tailored to the needs of the company's sales force: with a comprehensive overview of client interactions, facilitated order processing, and enabled access to sales history and performance metrics. It was user-friendly, with real-time updates, seamlessly integrated with existing customer databases.
The result? Increase in productivity of the sales team and improved decision-making process. But most importantly, positive feedback from the customers themselves.
Developing PoC with Low Code for a Tour Operator
To efficiently gather, centralize, and manage data is a challenge for any tour operator. Our client was not an exception. The company was seeking to get an internal software that will source information from third-party APIs and automate the travel itinerary creation process. Preferably, cost- and user-friendly tool.
The scope of work
Our experts ensured the client that all the requirements could be covered by Retool. And just in 40 hours a new software was launched. The tool had a flexible and easy-to-use interface with user authentication and an access management system panel – all the company needed. At the end, Retool was considered the main tool to replace the existing system.
Testing New Generation of Lead Management Tool with Retool
Our client, a venture fund, had challenges with managing lead generation and client acquisition. As the company grew, it aimed to attract more clients and scale faster, as well as automate the processes to save time, improve efficiency and minimize human error. The idea was to craft an internal lead generation tool that will cover all the needs. We’ve agreed that Retool will be a perfect tool for this.
The scope of work
The project initially began as a proof of concept, but soon enough, with each new feature delivered, the company experienced increased engagement and value.
We developed a web tool that integrates seamlessly with Phantombuster for data extraction and LinkedIn for social outreach. Now, the company has a platform that elevates the efficiency of their lead generation activities and provides deep insights into potential client bases.
Building an Advanced Admin Portal for Streamlined Operations
Confronted with the need for more sophisticated internal tools, an owner of IP Licensing marketplace turned to Retool to utilize its administrative functions. The primary goal was to construct an advanced admin portal that could support complex, multi-layered processes efficiently.
The scope of work
Our client needed help with updating filters and tables for its internal platform. In just 30 hours we've been able to update and create about 6 pages. Following features were introduced: add complex filtering and search, delete records, styling application with custom CSS.
Together, we have increased performance on most heavy pages and fixed circular dependency issues.
Creating MVP Dashboard for Google Cloud Users
Facing the challenge of unoptimized cloud resource management, a technology firm working with Google Cloud users was looking for a solution to make its operations more efficient. The main idea of the project was to create an MVP for e-commerce shops to test some client hypotheses. Traditional cloud management tools fell short.
The scope of work
Determined to break through limitations, our team of developers turned Retool. We decided to craft an MVP Dashboard specifically for Google Cloud users. This wasn't just about bringing data into view; but about reshaping how teams interact with their cloud environment.
We designed a dashboard that turned complex cloud data into a clear, strategic asset thanks to comprehensive analytics, tailored metrics, and an intuitive interface, that Retool provides. As the results, an increase in operational efficiency, significant improvement in cost management and resource optimization.
Elevating CRM with Custom HubSpot Sales Dashboard
Our other client, a SaaS startup, that offers collaborative tools for design and engineering teams, was on a quest to supercharge their sales efforts. Traditional CRM systems were limited and not customizable enough. The company sought a solution that could tailor HubSpot to their workflow and analytics needs.
The scope of work
Charged with the task of going beyond standard CRM functions, our team turned to Retool. We wanted to redefine how sales teams interact with their CRM.
By integrating advanced analytics, custom metrics, and a user-friendly interface, our developers provided a solution that transformed data into a strategic asset.
In 40 hours, three informative dashboards were developed, containing the most sensitive data related to sales activities. These dashboards enable our customer to analyze sales and lead generation performance from a different perspective and establish the appropriate KPIs.
Building a PDF Editor with Low-Code
Our client, a leading digital credential IT startup, needed a lot of internal processes to be optimized. But the experience with low-code tools wasn’t sufficient. That’s why the company decided to hire professionals. And our team of developers joined the project.
The scope of work
The client has a program that designs and prints custom badges for customers. The badges need to be “mail-merged” with a person’s info and turned into a PDF to print. But what is the best way to do it?
Our developers decided to use Retool as a core tool. Using custom components and JavaScript, we developed a program that reduced employees' time for designing, putting the data, verifying, and printing PDF badges in one application.
As a result, the new approach significantly reduces the time required by the internal team to organize all the necessary staff for the conference, including badge creation.
