The world of app development thrives when creative and innovative people dive into it. 

Mobile apps can be one of the best experiences for users, and they can change the lives of their developers.  

According to research, in the first quarter of 2023, 27 billion users downloaded apps from Google Play. 

You might have created it for business or for a specific audience, but no matter what, there are some central characteristics of successful apps that you have to consider. 

So, if you’ve created the app of your dreams and want other people to enjoy it, this article is for you.  

Let’s explore the seven key elements that can make your app stand out in a very competitive field. 

1. Augmented Reality (AR)

In the modern world, AR is one of the most exciting and important features a mobile app can have. Although it is still a developing area, research proves that there are 1.4 billion active AR user devices.

With AR technology, users can experience the blend of digital elements with the real, tangible world. If you use it, you could revolutionize the technology field. 

Here are three things you can do with AR:

• Deliver information based on real-time data. 
• Engage users with creative storytelling features. 
• Offer an immersive experience in international events, like a product launch. 

Keeping users engaged usually works when you’re offering something different and innovative to them. 

2. Performance and speed

Users hate slow apps or apps that lag. They get frustrated, and they simply delete the app, never to download it again. 

There are around 6.65 billion smartphone users in the world, and although you can’t make them all happy, you have to try to appeal to the masses. 

This happens when you work on the app’s performance and speed. Test it on different devices with slow and fast internet connections, and make sure that it can run even under the worst possible conditions. Your users will appreciate it endlessly. 

As a result of an optimized app, you might notice a higher rate of satisfied users and positive reviews on the app store. Ultimately, this leads to a broader user base.  

3. Payment gateway

Mobile apps have evolved over the years. Now, payment processing has become a crucial feature to add to them. 

If your app deals with transactions, you need to make sure that your payment process is simple and safe. Of course, it’s also important that it can support different payment methods. It’s all about making your user’s life easier. 

You have to trust and protect sensitive user data with strict security measures, like encryption processes and security updates. User-friendly payment systems help to improve sales and turn your users into regular customers.  

4. Compatibility across devices

In this day and age, there is an app for almost everything. The diversity app stores can handle is almost overwhelming, actually. With a wide range of screens and operating systems, this is no wonder. 

The app you’ve developed has to be compatible with as many of them as possible, which means:

• Designing several responsive layouts that deal with the variety in size and operating systems in smartphones. 
• Having many testing stages to see how the app works on different devices, especially if it will be available on both Android and iOS. 

In turn, this will improve the reach and usability of it.  

5. Security

This is one of the most important features that both you and the app’s users will appreciate. Data protection, in today’s digital world, is crucial. Your app has to be as safe as possible from hackers. 

Simply put, you need a strong encryption protocol, safe user authentication, and regular updates to patch up vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals might work hard, but developers need to work harder. 

A safe app allows you to build trust with the users because prioritizing their security is key to success. Remember to stay informed about digital threats and compliance regulations. 

6. Regular updates and bug fixing

Congratulations, you’ve finally launched the app! Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean the work is over. To keep being successful over time, you need to work on improving the app. 

This involves: 

• Listening to your users. What are they saying about the app? What would they like? Are there bugs or glitches? 
• Releasing updates with the intention to keep them curious and engaged in what you can offer. 

By actively doing these two things, you can keep and grow your user base over time. 

7. Offline functionality

Not everyone enjoys a reliable internet connection all the time. If you have included offline functionalities in your app, you’re already different from your competition. 

Users should be able to access essential features and even content when they’re offline. Your app can become indispensable if they have a good experience even when they can’t connect to the internet. 

Not all users have a reliable internet connection at all times. Including offline functionality in your app can set you apart from the competition. 

Provide users with the ability to access essential features and content even when they are offline. This can greatly enhance the overall user experience and make your app indispensable.

To protect your online activities from cybercriminals, consider adding a VPN plugin for Chrome. This way, you and your work developing apps will be safe from malware and other virtual attacks. 

In a nutshell

The world of mobile app development is fast-paced and very competitive. Success depends on how well you can tell what your users need and their preferences. AR and payment gateways are incredibly relevant features to consider, for starters. 

To sum up, a great mobile app is user-friendly, performs well, and runs on different devices. It’s also safe and keeps users happy with regular updates and offline functionalities. 

You will be well on your way of creating a very successful app by incorporating these seven features into it. Good luck!