Top 5 Mobile iPhone and Android Apps

[image error]I was recently in a bookstore and came across a couple books I was excited to check out right away. However, I didn't grab them and run to the register as I would have a couple years ago…instead I pulled out my evernote app on my iPhone jotted down the title and author. Then as I walked out, I pulled up Amazon and purchased them with 1-click for my Kindle app. Within approximately 90 seconds I had the books in my hand, and for cheaper than the bookstore price. Mobile apps…are my best friend for a person who's on the go constantly and wants everything easily accessible from a simple and easy to use device.

Nowadays the saying "there's an app for that" goes without saying. However, is the app really that great? Is it inexpensive? Quick to download? Easy to use? Have an intuitive interface? All these characteristics are essential to apps being successful in the mobile space. According to a few different lists (such as Time, PCMag and others) the following are known to be the top five iPhone and Android apps (respectively)…notice the difference…

iPhone Apps Kicking Butt and Taking Names

1. Games: Angry Birds

2. On-the-go: Kayak

3. Lifestyle: Amazon

4. Social: Facebook

5. Utility: Google

Android Apps Showing Them Who's Boss

1. Games: Angry Birds

2. On-the-go: Yelp

3. Lifestyle: ESPN Score Center

4. Social: Facebook

5. Utility: Beautiful Widgets

What do these apps have in common, despite some of their different categorical types, features, and uses? How and why are they in top lists by many magazines and experts? Easy…

A. User Interface: Keep it simple, easy to use, and most of all easy on the eyes…we can't all afford laser surgery just yet.

B.  Adapt to User's Needs and Wants: If you are focusing on a productivity app, make sure it's actually making the user's time more efficient. Make it easy to learn to use, intuitive in all senses, and something they'll use on a regular basis. If not, it's just as easy to hit delete and try another one that works better.

C. Understand the Market: It's key to understand if the market is ready for such an app. Does it exist? Does the market want something like this? Example – Spotify is a great example of an app that filled people wants/needs. People loved music but were tired of being interrupted by ads. This app allows music fansto stream music of their choice (a whole album if they want) without having incessant ads. Yes, they may have to pay more, but true music lovers will pay the price if the app is worth the money.

In the end there is no real magic potion to have a successful iPhone app…but there are qualities that go into it which people appreciate and notice. Maybe the next app will tell you if your app is awesome or if it sucks…?

Image credit: Techcrates, faceblogger
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