Top Mobile App Development Trends to Watch in 2025
The mobile app development industry is continuously evolving. Technology advancements, consumer demands, and a wide range of other factors have a direct impact on mobile app trends.
Staying up to date with the latest trends is arguably the most crucial aspect of success in this space. As a member of the Forbes Technology Council, I’m constantly researching patterns and communicating with other tech leaders about gaining an edge.
Mobile app resellers need to keep up with new trends to better serve their clients. The same goes for content creators and producers ready to take their brands to the next level with mobile development.
Key Takeaways
- Industry Evolution: Mobile app development is rapidly changing due to technological advancements and consumer demands.
- Staying Informed: Keeping up with trends is essential for success in mobile app development.
- IoT Integration: The Internet of Things is expanding, offering new opportunities for app developers.
- Foldable Devices: Apps must adapt to the growing trend of foldable smartphones.
- 5G Impact: The rollout of 5G technology will significantly enhance app performance and capabilities.
Are you prepared for the mobile app development changes in the coming year?
The list below is more than just a hunch or my personal opinion. I’ve used fact-based research to come up with the top app development trends that will dominate 2025.
1. Internet of Things (IoT) App Integration
The IoT is far from a new concept. But the rise in mobile penetration across a broad range of sectors and categories has created seemingly endless opportunities for the Internet of Things.
People have grown accustomed to using technology to improve their everyday life.
The IoT describes the growing network of devices connected to the Internet, providing convenience and automated control to consumers. Smart home technology is a perfect example of the rise in IoT and mobile app development.
Mobile apps can be used to adjust the thermostat in a house from a remote location, lock or unlock a front door, and connect to home security systems. Refrigerators and other household appliances can also be connected to mobile apps.
The global Internet of Things market to reached $318 billion in 2023. $226 billion of that comes from software, like mobile apps.
That’s a 58% increase from 2020. As you can see from the graph, the IoT is poised for steady growth in the coming years with software leading the way. The number of IoT devices out there is growing,
According to Statista, the revenue from technology associated with the Internet of Things will eclipse 1.6 trillion by 2025.
In 2025, I expect to see more mobile app development with the IoT in mind. Household devices, automobiles, display devices, smart devices, and healthcare are all markets to keep an eye on.
2. Apps For Foldable Devices
It feels like a lifetime ago, but one of my first mobile phones was a flip phone. Mobile phones have clearly changed over the last decade. Touch screens with one or no buttons have taken over the market.
But over the last couple of years, foldable devices have begun making a comeback. 2019 saw the release of foldable devices like the Samsung Galaxy Fold, the Huawei Mate X, and the new Motorola Razr.
These smartphones fold to compress or expand the screen size based on user preferences. For example, a user might make a call with the device closed, but watch a video on a larger screen by unfolding the device.
| Feature | Traditional Smartphones | Foldable Smartphones |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | Fixed | Adjustable (Fold/Unfold) |
| User Interaction | Touchscreen | Touchscreen with folding capability |
| Market Share | Majority | Growing |
From an app development perspective, resellers and content creators need to account for these devices when building or updating an app.
The idea is that an app should seamlessly adjust its display as the screen folds or unfolds.
Right now, foldable devices are just a sliver of the overall smartphone market share. But this will change in the coming years. According to a 2019 study by USA Today, 17% of iPhone users and 19% of Android users are excited about buying a phone with a foldable design.
According to Statista, roughly 3.2 million foldable phones were shipped in 2019. This forecast is expected to reach 50 million units by 2023. This will obviously be a big year for foldables, which means app developers must plan accordingly.
3. 5G Technology
The rollout of 5G will have a major impact on 2025 app trends. For developers, resellers, and creators, this technology is poised to change the way mobile applications are used and created.
Take a look at the expected growth of 5G smartphone connections over the next four years.
2021 had roughly 3.5 times more 5G connections than in 2020. These connections nearly tripled again between 2022 and 2024.
What does this mean for mobile app development?
Speed and efficiency will drastically improve. In fact, 5G is expected to deliver a 10x decrease in latency, while boosting network efficiency and traffic capacity. Compared to 4G, 5G will be up to 100 times faster, depending on the mobile network operator.
The penetration of 5G will ultimately boost the functionality of mobile apps. This will allow developers to add new features to apps without negatively affecting the app’s performance.
Developers and mobile app resellers should also use 5G network speed during the testing and development stages of building an app.
4. Development For Wearable Devices
Wearable technology has been trending upward for years now as well. This isn’t necessarily a breakthrough in the market. We’ve seen smartwatches, trackers, and fitness bands for a while now.
But wearable devices have yet to reach their full potential.
Take a look at this graph from eMarketer about the penetration of wearables in the United States.
While we’re not seeing a staggering jump year-year-over year, the growth is still steady. The wearables trend has changed and will continue to change the way that mobile apps get developed.
For instance, Apple made a big announcement about wearables and
Frequently Asked Questions
How will 5G technology impact mobile app development in 2025?
5G technology will significantly enhance mobile app performance by providing faster speeds and lower latency. Platforms like Buildfire make it easier for developers to leverage these advancements during app creation and testing.
What are the key considerations for developing apps for foldable devices?
Developers need to ensure that apps can seamlessly adjust their display as the screen folds or unfolds. Tools like Buildfire allow businesses to efficiently adapt their apps for these devices.
Why is IoT integration important for mobile apps in 2025?
IoT integration allows mobile apps to connect with a wide range of devices, enhancing user convenience and control. Buildfire, for instance, offers solutions that simplify IoT app development.
What trends are influencing wearable app development?
Wearable app development is influenced by the steady growth of smartwatches and fitness bands, requiring apps to offer seamless integration and functionality.
How can mobile app resellers stay competitive with emerging trends?
Mobile app resellers can stay competitive by keeping up with trends like 5G, IoT, and foldable devices, using platforms like Buildfire to quickly adapt and offer innovative solutions.
Based on my extensive research, the 15 app development trends that I outlined above will dominate 2025.
FAQ
- What are instant apps? Instant apps allow users to access an app without downloading it, providing a seamless experience.
- How did Hollar benefit from using an instant app? Hollar increased conversions by 20% and gained 30% of their Android traffic from the instant app.
- Why is it important to stay updated with mobile app trends? Staying updated helps developers remain competitive and adapt to market shifts.
- Do I need to implement all trends in my app development? No, but understanding market shifts is crucial for adapting your development strategy.
- What is the key takeaway for app developers in 2025? Developers should treat mobile app trends as a guide to gain an edge in the industry.