Top tips for creating an addictive mobile app

Trying to retain users and increase session times is vital to improving average revenue figures. However, it can be quite difficult in the current market which consists of around 6 million apps competing for consumers. Research has shown that the majority of mobile users will delete an app within the first 72 hours of installing it which means you need to captivate them quickly. These tips will help you get your users hooked and set your new app business up for success from the start.

Use push notifications

Push notifications should be used as part of your retention strategy from day one. They can be used to engage with users, promote content and react to specific user actions. Timing and content are the two key ingredients to delivering an effective push notification. There are plenty of resources that go into more detail, however, if your notifications are timed well and contain relevant or engaging hooks, you will see improved retention figures.

Streamline user flows

Usability is a major factor when it comes to user experience. In recent years, developers have invested a lot of time into creating smooth user flows. When designing your app, look at successful user flows and try to streamline it as much as possible. Count the number of taps it takes to complete an action and try to reduce it.

Develop a reward scheme

Providing real-time feedback and rewards for users is a great way to improve the user experience. Mobile games provide a great example of how rewards such as in-game credits can make apps more addictive. Other types of apps can utilise a similar reward system by offering extra content or collectables in return for increased use.

Create personalised experiences

One of the best ways to retain consumers and increase the amount of time your app remains in device app trays is by getting users invested in your service. There are many ways to create a personalised experience for each user. For example, you could build adjustable design features into your app that allow the user to create their own personal version.

Keep adding new things

The high turnover rate of apps shows that users generally get bored with apps pretty quickly and will inevitably delete them. To avoid this, it’s vital that you are always adding new features and updating your app. Make changes based on user feedback to help ensure that your new content is relevant and well-received.