Trends on Tuesday: What’s Your Mobile [App]etite?

In a few short years, the number of mobile apps has exploded, and the time spent on apps continues to increase. However, one thing hasn’t changed: the number of apps individuals use. The average smartphone owner uses 22 to 28 apps in a month, according to new data from Nielsen. Here are a few highlights from the report:

• U.S. smartphone users age 18 and over spend 30 hours, 15 minutes using apps each month, 65 % more time than they did just two years ago.
• Smartphone owners ages 25-44 use 29 apps, on average, the greatest number of apps per month.
• Smartphone owners ages 18-24 spend 37 hours, 6 minutes on apps, the most time spent on apps of any age group.
• Mobile users spent nearly 11 hours per month, on average, accessing social networking and search apps.
• Entertainment viewing, including video, audio and gaming apps, grew 71% among mobile users over the prior year.

This is good, and better, news for government agencies that are developing mobile applications, and those considering it as part of their mobile strategy. If an agency can provide smartphone owners with an app that is intuitive and meets their needs, they have a good chance of being a go-to app for their target audience. If you need help deciding on that app for your agency, the Mobile Application Development Program provides case studies and the latest mobile trends to help you plan your mobile product.