8 Mistakes to Avoid When Developing Applications – Mobile App Development Trends

The success of a mobile app depends on its development and promotion. With the right understanding of app development, any skilled programmer with technical expertise can begin creating mobile apps.

However, they must be aware of the risks involved; failure to do so can lead to costly mistakes and unsuccessful apps in the app stores. Here are some mistakes that mobile app developers should avoid to achieve success.

If you’ve lived in your house for more than a year, there’s probably a junk drawer in your kitchen. Chances are, it didn’t start out that way. Nobody’s junk drawer does.

You likely intended to have an accessible, convenient spot for essential items. Yet somehow, this has morphed into a junk drawer.

Your smartphone has probably suffered the same fate. At first, it works like a multi-tool full of useful apps that add value to your life. Now, it’s full of apps you barely remember installing let alone use.

Of course, you should clean those up. Unused apps can be a security threat, and probably have permissions they shouldn’t. But, which apps do belong on your phone?

That depends on the phone you have, your lifestyle, and a variety of other factors. Still, there are a few apps that every smartphone user should strongly consider downloading.

The future is mobile. In fact, only in 2021, the number of unique mobile users amounted to over 4.3 billion, which equals more than 90% of the overall global internet population. Moreover, mobile internet traffic constitutes 55% of total web traffic.

Adding an Excessive Number of Features

Developers might assume that packing a mobile app with numerous features will make it an instant success. However, adding too many features initially is not the best approach. Users might find the app confusing and struggle to identify what's valuable, resulting in lost interest.

A mobile app should be simple, user-friendly, and useful. End-users prefer apps that are easy to navigate and understand. When an app is overloaded with features, it loses its effectiveness. To avoid issues, define the application's purpose and include only essential and meaningful user features. Developers can introduce additional functionalities in future updates.

Overlooking Security Protocols

In today's technological age, security is the top priority for users. Neglecting to implement established security measures can leave valuable user data vulnerable to breaches and compromise their priorities.

Inadequate security can damage an application's reputation and lead to poor ratings in app stores.

Employ robust encryption techniques, secure user authentication methods, and perform regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities. Even applications that store user information locally must ensure it is stored securely to mitigate security risks.

Use SAST (Static Application Security Testing) to identify and promptly address security vulnerabilities in the application's source code.

Poor Monetization Strategy

Considering how to monetize your app can be challenging. Many developers neglect monetization, assuming revenue will come from ads or users will pay for their apps.

Developers can offer two versions: a free version and a premium one with extra features, or they can include in-app purchases.

Ads on popular apps can also generate income. Combining multiple strategies can be advantageous. No matter what option developers choose, it should align with their needs. To avoid future losses, this aspect should be considered early on.

Developing Apps Without Conducting Research

App developers need to conduct thorough research before deciding to create an app. Remember that each business and app development process has unique goals.

A thorough analysis of various factors is necessary before beginning. Avoid jumping to conclusions based solely on a Google search.

Consider the primary goal of your application, the nature of your business, your target audience, user engagement, and your unique selling proposition. Conducting careful research when developing an app for your company can save you significant money.

Lack of Clarity on Server Needs

Most people view apps as standalone entities since the typical app user experience often feels solitary. A hallmark of a great app is that its backend components are invisible to the end user. Yet, nearly every successful app relies on a server to exchange information, whether it's high scores, pricing, or content.

Regardless of the backend data's nature, your app will likely need to connect to a server, which involves programming, bandwidth, maintenance, and updates.

Server-side development can be costly, so consider how you plan to manage data exchange with your app, this invariably involves a server. Ensure your app developer communicates this upfront, and include it in your budget considerations.

Development Shortcuts

We all desire projects to be completed swiftly. Each extra day a project takes means more spending without generating income or results. However, consider the negative experiences you've had with poorly designed software.

Software code is often likened to a foundation, if it's strong, it can support whatever you wish to build. Rushing the project, taking shortcuts, and cutting corners often leads to regret. The quality of code is crucial for any software project.

It's common for low-cost developers to take shortcuts during development, which is something to be cautious of. If your app developer cuts corners and takes shortcuts, you might end up with a poorly written app that's difficult to upgrade or improve.

Disorganized Development Team

App projects have numerous components, and finding one person skilled in all areas is uncommon. Consider this: You need a visionary with a great idea, a business partner who shares and enhances this vision, a project manager to outline the project's steps, break it into manageable parts, set timelines, and lead the team.

You also require a graphic designer who can create a beautiful and functional interface, a programmer (or ideally, several) with expertise in your platform, and a server or database specialist to integrate the interface and mobile product with the necessary server requirements.

This is just the minimum; sometimes, multiple experts in each area are needed. Low-cost app developers often lack diverse talents, typically individual programmers working from home.

Placing the .env File in a Web Server Directory

Placing an environment file (.env) in a web server directory can pose a significant security risk. These files hold sensitive data such as API keys and database credentials, which should remain inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.

If a .env file is situated in a web server directory, it can be easily accessed by anyone with the URL. For example, you might uncover a website's database password just by searching on Google if its .env file was mistakenly left in a public folder. Thus, it's vital to store the .env file outside the web server directory or in a location that is not publicly accessible.

Additionally, access to the .env file should be restricted. Even team members should only have access if it's necessary for specific tasks. Not everyone needs to be privy to database passwords or API keys used in your web application.

Apps That Belong on Every Phone

A Personal Safety App

You carry around a device that is capable of sending and receiving your location and communicating with people near and far. If you are ever in danger, your smartphone could save your life.

The problem is that when danger is present the time it takes to call or text for help could leave you in real trouble.

That’s why you need a personal safety app. These are smartphone utilities that can:

• Broadcast your location to friends and family
• Call emergency services with a shake or tap
• Contact your emergency contacts
• Sound an alarm if you are in distress

You can find personal safety apps for free or with premium features. Do your research and add the best one to your home screen.

A Messaging App

You almost surely have a messaging app on your phone right now, but does it meet your needs? If you’re like many smartphone users you are increasingly concerned with privacy and security.

For those reasons, you may be thinking of moving towards a messaging tool that offers encryption and is connected with an organization that has more respect for your personal data than the most popular providers.

Maybe it’s time to give it a try and shop around for something better.

An App For Budgeting

You shop with your phone. You bank with your phone. Shouldn’t you also track your budget and plan your spending with your phone? As long as you spend money on the go, you need to have a mobile budgeting app that you can refer to and update along the way.

If you plan on using a budgeting app, don’t rush into a decision. There are so many choices out there. Do your research. Identify the features you want.'

Determine what you are willing to pay, if anything. Then, give one or two products a test drive. Eventually,  you will find a tool that will help you achieve your financial goals.

A Note Taking App

Note taking isn’t an activity that’s reserved only for work meetings and classes. Anybody can take notes to help them retain information, jot down ideas, and capture moments of creative brilliance.
Have you ever regretted not having a way to write something down? Of course you have! Get a note taking app.

To-Do List/Reminder/Calendar

Your smartphone can be a handy productivity tool if you have the right apps installed.If you have an app for task management and calendar app you will be able to stay organized as you stay on top of complex jobs and projects.

Shop around the app store or Google play. You may decide to download something that’s an all-in-one utility, or use the power of a couple of apps to keep you organized and efficient.

An Educational App

There’s nothing wrong with using your app to scroll social media and play games. That’s how many of us decompress and unwind. But, what if you spent just a small amount of that time broadening your horizons.

You could learn a new skill, become fluent in a new language, or learn something for the sake of learning. Whatever you choose, there’s an app out there that will do that for you.

A News App

You want to stay informed, but it can be a real pain jumping from one online news source to another to get the information you need. Maybe, a news aggregator or other app will help.
The right app can help you focus on news that is most relevant to you, local news, or what’s trending right now.

A Social App

Phones have been used to socialize for decades. That’s more true than ever now that we can carry them around with us. There’s nothing wrong with this as long as we maintain a good balance of digital and real-life socialization.

It’s also important to always differentiate between social and para-social relationships.

So, if you want to use social apps on your phone, go for it! There are apps available for meeting like-minded friends, finding local events, and online dating. Find what works for you, register, and get connected for love or friendship.

A Time Waster

Games and apps you install and play just for fun are often referred to as time-wasters. These may be extraordinarily simple apps that involve nothing more than clicking or in-depth games that require you to think strategically.

Whatever you like is fine. Because, when you play these games you’re doing more than wasting time. You are decompressing and lowering  your stress levels.

What Apps Would Improve The Quality of Your Life?

When you want to improve the quality of your life, relax more, increase your productivity, etc. so many people will tell you to ditch your phone.

While it’s true that a smartphone can be a distraction, it can also be a useful tool that enhances daily living. So, rather than dismissing your smartphone as a net negative, take some time to consider how it can serve you better.

Introduction to Mobile App Development Trends

As the technology is rapidly developing and we can see smartphones becoming more affordable, mobile trends such as mobile-first design, fax online, and others are only expected to grow.

Companies have already started recognizing the importance of including mobile apps and mobile versions of their websites in their technological strategies. However, it’s no longer enough.

It doesn’t matter if you are an app developer, a small business owner, or an R&D manager in a big corporation — you need to keep your ear to the ground when it comes to new technologies and emerging trends.

From AI and machine learning or 5G to apps for wearable and foldable devices and mobile commerce — here are six mobile app development trends you should be watching right now:

AI and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are no longer the domain of science fiction. They are already being used in mobile apps across a range of industries, from retail and healthcare to banking and transportation.

AI can be used for various tasks, such as image and voice recognition, predictive search, and analytics. It may be a tremendous help to create a more personalized user experience by tailoring content and recommendations to individual users.

Machine learning, on the other hand, is a form of AI that allows apps to learn and improve over time without the need for human intervention. It means that, whether it’s an event app, a social media app, or an instant messenger, mobile apps can get better at completing tasks the more they are used.

5G

The fifth generation of mobile networks, also known as 5G, is set to revolutionize how we use our smartphones. 5G is not just an upgrade from 4G — it’s a whole new technology that will change the way mobile apps are developed and used.

5G offers several advantages over 4G, including faster speeds, lower latency, and more capacity. It will enable a whole new range of applications and services that were impossible before.

For example, 5G will make it possible to stream high-quality video and gaming content on your smartphone without any lag or buffering. It will also make it possible to use Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) applications without the need for special equipment.

Apps for Wearable and Foldable Devices

With the increasing popularity of wearable devices such as the Apple Watch and the Samsung Galaxy Watch, the demand for apps that users can use on these devices is also increasing. At the same time, the trend of foldable devices is also starting to gain traction.

In response, app developers are starting to create more apps that people can use on wearable, foldable as well as mobile devices.

When creating their apps, they need to consider the unique form factors and use cases of wearable and foldable devices, including live streaming mobile app for iOS. This dynamic trend adds another layer of user engagement, offering a real-time and interactive experience for iOS users.

For example, foldable devices can be used as both smartphones and tablets, so developers need to create apps that look good in both orientations.

Additionally, wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness trackers often have limited screen space, so developers need to focus on creating apps that are concise and easy to use.

Mobile Commerce

With the increasing popularity of online shopping, the demand for mobile commerce (m-commerce) apps is also increasing. M-commerce apps allow users to shop online from their smartphones and tablets.

Many online retailers now have their own mobile apps that allow users to buy goods and services directly from their phones. What is more, multiple standalone m-commerce apps allow users to shop from a range of different retailers.

The popularity of m-commerce apps is due to their convenience and ease of use. Users can shop for items anytime and anywhere, and they can pay for goods and services with just a few taps on their phones.

VR and AR

One of the most popular mobile app development trends of recent years is the integration of AR and VR technologies into apps. Companies do it to provide users with an immersive experience that can result in a higher level of engagement.

The use of these technologies can be seen in a number of different industries, including gaming, healthcare, real estate, education, and more. In the near future, we can expect to see even more examples of how AR and VR can be used to improve the user experience in mobile apps.

Gaming and Entertainment

The gaming and entertainment industry is one of the biggest users of mobile apps. As the demand for mobile games and other entertainment content increases, so does the need for better and more sophisticated apps.

In order to meet this demand, app developers are constantly coming up with new and innovative ways to improve the gaming and entertainment experience on mobile devices.

For example, they are developing new ways to use AR and VR technologies and create more engaging and interactive content.

Apart from gaming, we also observe a rise in the use of mobile apps for other entertainment purposes right now, such as streaming movies and TV shows, listening to music, and reading books. As such, we can expect to see even more entertainment-focused and enhanced mobile apps in the future.

The Bottom Line

Creating a web application demands coding skills and awareness of potential security threats. As developers, our goal is to write secure and reliable code, yet the common mistakes highlighted in this article can happen if we're not vigilant. By recognizing these security pitfalls, you can proactively avoid them and build more secure web applications.

The trends we discussed in this article are just some of the most important ones that you should be aware of. Mobile app development is an ever-changing field, and it can be challenging to keep up with all the latest trends.

However, by staying on top of the news and being aware of the latest technologies and developments, you can ensure that your mobile app is ahead of the curve.

Only then will you be able to integrate them into their own app development process or when requesting a app development proposal from a service provider in order to develop more innovative and user-friendly apps that will give you a competitive edge. Good luck!