Developing the Right Mobile App for Emerging Markets

Smartphones are everywhere. People no longer see them as a calling device. It’s hard to imagine our lives without a smartphone in today’s landscape. From enabling you to shop online, learn something new, or track and manage your health, a smartphone has become a crucial requirement for most individuals.

While developed nations have long enjoyed the benefits of smartphones, the trend is now catching up in emerging markets. As a result, the need for custom mobile app development services is growing in developing economies such as Africa, South Asia, Latin America, Asia, and Eastern Europe. Building mobile applications for these regions comes with unique challenges and opportunities. This article explores the common challenges and opportunities in detail. This will help companies looking to enter or expand their business in these markets.

Building Mobile Apps for Emerging Markets: Top Challenges to Consider

1. Connectivity Issues

Smartphone users have poor or unstable internet connections in developing nations. This makes it hard for them to use apps effectively. A custom mobile app development company needs to keep the following pointers in mind when creating apps for these markets.

• Slow Internet – Many users have slow internet, which makes apps load and work slowly. This frustrates users leading to poor user experience.
• Unstable Connections – In some regions, the internet connection stops working suddenly. This makes it tricky for users to finish ongoing tasks in the app, again leading to a bad experience.
• Limited Data Plans – Users may also have limited data plans. This prevents them from using the internet after a certain point. Apps that use a lot of data may be hard for them to use regularly.
• Offline Access Needs – Many users may need to access information without an internet connection. Your custom app needs to work offline to adapt to these conditions.
• Regional Differences – Connectivity may vary from one area to another. Programmers need to know that the internet is not the same everywhere. This allows them to create apps that work well in all regions.

By understanding these issues, mobile application development service providers build apps that are easier to use and more helpful for users specifically in these markets.

2. Device Diversity

Another common challenge that a mobile app development company may face is device diversity. This simply means that users might have smartphones of different screen sizes meaning it is tricky to build apps that work smoothly on all devices.

• Irregular Performance – Different devices have different hardware, like memory, GPU, and RAM. An app that works smoothly on premium devices might not work well on a budget (or low-end) device.
• Different Operating Systems – Devices may also vary in operating systems (OS). For instance, some run on iOS while others on Android or Windows. Developers must build apps that work across all OS.
• Multiple Screen Sizes – Smartphones come in various screen sizes. Experts must design and optimize apps that look good and run seamlessly on different screen sizes.
• Older Devices – Many users in these markets may also have older devices that lack modern features and are running on the previous OS versions. Developers must also think about these users and create versions for older operating systems to maximize compatibility.
• Testing Challenges – With so many devices to consider, testing an app feels like an uphill task. Developers need to test apps across devices to ensure smooth functioning.

By fixing the issues of device diversity, programmers build apps that allow companies to reach a wide audience and provide a smooth experience to all users.

3. Cultural Differences

Different cultures have their norms. App experts must be aware of this when creating the application. This helps them avoid misunderstandings or causing offense.

• Language Differences – Users speak different languages in different regions. App experts need to design the app’s content in such a manner that users can understand and use it well.
• Visual Design Preferences – Colors, symbols, and images may have different meanings in different cultures. App programmers must choose visuals that are suitable and attractive to local users.
• User Behavior – People from different cultures may use technology in different ways. Understanding the behavior of local users is important for building user-friendly apps.

By addressing cultural differences, app experts build apps that are more useful and engaging for users. This leads to increased user engagement, positive reviews, and more downloads, which helps the app succeed.

4. Limited Payment Options

Many users in these regions may not have access to UPI, credit cards, and online banking. This makes it tricky for programmers to let users pay for services online. Listed below are some key pointers to help you understand this challenge.

• Many emerging markets rely heavily on cash. Users may prefer to pay with cash over digital payment methods.
• Credit cards are not common in these markets. This makes it difficult for users to pay online.
• Prepaid cards are common in growing markets. Users can buy these cards via cash and use them to pay for services online.
• Some rising economic powers have mobile money services that allow users to add and send money using their phones. Developers must set up these market-specific payment options in their apps to allow mobile payments.

Opportunities for Building Mobile Apps for Emerging Markets

• Growing User Base – Expanding markets have an increasing number of mobile users. This provides a large audience for mobile apps.
• Rising Demand for Local App Solutions – There is a growing demand for apps that solve local problems. App experts must tap into the unique needs and build solutions for developing markets that truly make a difference in people’s lives.
• Offline Access – Creating apps that work without the internet improves app usability in areas where the network is not stable.
• Localization Opportunities – Building apps that fit perfectly the culture, language, and needs of local users improves the experience and increases engagement.
• Increased Digital Literacy – As digital awareness increases, more users will get their hands on mobile apps. This will expand the mobile app market further.
• Unique Business Models – In emerging economies, there is enough room for exploring new revenue models, such as freemium options or subscription services.

Summing Up

Building mobile apps for growing markets presents both challenges and opportunities. As more people in these regions get access to smartphones, the demand for mobile apps will continue growing. However, developers must address the app development challenges to succeed in these markets. By focusing on the needs of local users, developers build apps that not only do well in these markets but also help improve communities.