From unemployment rates to more screen time, the pandemic has significantly impacted life. One impact is the increase in production and consumption of mobile apps.

Virtual Reality (VR) is a visual experience that replaces what you see with a virtual world. Augmented Reality (AR) layers virtual objects and characters on what you naturally see. Pokemon Go is an example of AR and Five Nights at Freddy’s is a VR game. AR games generally trend higher because they don’t require headsets.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a computer-based system that works like a human mind but on a faster level. It learns the more it’s used to improve the functions and experiences of its user. Common AIs are Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. However, standard apps are incorporating AI programs due to their effectiveness.

Mobile deposits, transfers, and the popularity of the Wallet feature have kept mobile banking at the top of this category. Additionally, Android and Apple have their own apps that serve the same purpose.

As a result of the pandemic, companies shifted to solely online shopping experiences. Convenience, free shipping, guaranteed refunds, and sales have kept many businesses open. Retail apps are popular among consumers because they can save, share, and give feedback for their favorite stores.

Restaurants and fast food establishments limited hours, let go of staff, and implemented sanitary regimens as a result of the pandemic. Consumers began to rely more on apps to have their food delivered. Uber Eats is the most popular app in this category due to its flexibility and features. Consumers can order from a number of local places, see menus and prices, view ratings, track orders, and leave feedback for the drivers.

With a flat rate and easy-to-use app, Netflix was at the top of the video streaming category. It generated the most income, but YouTube remained the app consumers spent the most time on. However, Twitch stands as one of the top live streaming platforms. It lets creators interact with consumers, accept donations, and provide incentives.

A decrease in social interaction resulting from the pandemic created a reliance on social and messaging apps. Platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger became popular. These apps implemented video call features and visual filters. However, Snapchat continues to be favored and is used more by the teenage generation.

Despite restrictions, travel and navigation-based apps displayed an increase in hotel bookings, carpooling, public transport, and more. Apps used for bicycle and scooter rentals were unexpectedly popular. Through these apps, people could locate and rent these forms of transportation.

With initial and in-app purchases, this category accumulated a significant income. However, China’s hold on gaming app production will likely affect future production. As it stands, Candy Crush Saga remains the most downloaded gaming app, as well as the second-largest in revenue.

As commute to jobs stopped due to the pandemic, people utilized time on healthier activities. Apps that recorded weight loss, physical activity and provided stress-relieving techniques saw growth in downloads and use.

When making an app, consider the relevance for users and how comfortable it is to navigate. Features like reward programs and in-app banking may add incentives that convince users to download your app. Most importantly, know what apps your users have because they are your competition.

There is no average range since the cost is determined by the number of people working on the app, its content, and how much time is spent. Once information is collected, the team divides the project into sections with an anticipated time frame. An outline of the app is created and an estimate is sent to you. Apps generally take more than 300 hours and range between 50 to 99 USD per hour.