As we begin 2021, we can evaluate the 2020 trends that boldly emerged as well as the ones that are still picking up steam. Mobile technology has continuously become more advanced since its introduction. Now, more than ever, is it becoming important for companies inside and outside of the workplace.

As a business owner, it is crucial to stay on top of these trends to be successful. It is not always necessary to use these trends for marketing, but it is important to be aware of them.

This post will highlight the top trends that have been the most influential thus far and the ones that have promising outlooks for the next year.

Instant Apps

Instant Apps are still on the rise. Google created them for Android users in 2016, but didn’t release them to everybody until 2018. An instant app allows the user to “test” the app before downloading it. Therefore, it doesn’t take up any space on your phone.

This technology is more advanced and only available for Android users, which is a downfall. However, if Apple decides to work on developing similar software, it may be available to more consumers.

An example of a reason why this technology is beneficial is for, say a parking meter app. You do not need the app after you pay for parking, so why is it necessary to wait for the app to download and delete it at the end of the day? They save time and help your phone run efficiently.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

We have been hearing about Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the last couple of years and machine learning (ML) was not far behind. You may have used both of these without even realizing it.

Here are some examples of AI:

• Siri
• Alexa
• Google Assistant
• Cortana

Machine learning is a bit different as it is considered a subset of AI. We see this more so with Chatbots that you interact with for customer service, or financial forecasting solutions.

The purpose behind AI and ML is to learn more about the user as they continue to interact with the technology. This is why your ads and search recommendations seem like they are reading your mind.

Mobile Payments

As mobile phone users use their phones more frequently throughout the day, technology has been evolving to catch up. Online shopping is one activity that is becoming easier to do on your phone.

Quick Sprout reported that over the last 3 years, the number of payment app users has increased by over 40 million for Apple users and around 15 million for Samsung and Android users.

The payment apps we hear of most often are Paypal, Venmo, Cashapp, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. These apps make it easier for us to spend money and feel like our information is secure.

Security

On the topic of mobile payment, mobile security is growing. As we share more confidential data, we want to make sure that information is secure. Businesses are improving their mobile security in their apps to make consumers more safe.

Blockchain was originally used for bitcoin and cryptocurrencies but is now being used to enforce security measures. Applications are partnering with blockchain to earn customer loyalty and trust.

Some of the benefits of blockchain-powered apps, according to Sam Solutions are:

• Improved data collection and reduced risks of data loss
• Quicker transactions
• Simplicity
• Transparency

Cloud Apps

The cloud is something Apple users have been taking advantage of for years. Remote servers hold the data and store documents for users so they don’t have to waste space on their phones.

The benefits and uses of the cloud include:

• Secure functioning across multiple devices
• Much more computing power
• Better storage and loading capacity
• Increasing user retention
• Streamlining operations

We will see an increase in applications that are cloud-based in the future.

Technology continues to evolve and change. If you are looking to explore technology offerings for your business and need extra support, contact Auburn IT today at 334-625-1770.