App building trends to look out for in 2025
It’s always exciting to keep yourself up to date with the ever-evolving world of apps. Apps have been around since the early days of mobile phones if you count basic features like calendars, calculators and simple games like Snake. However, these devices normally had black-and-white screens and were very limited when it came to download opportunities, processing power and connectivity compared to the incredibly powerful and colourful devices we have today.
There have been numerous big moments in the history of apps. The arrival of the Java Platform, Micro Edition enabled phone manufacturers to add a wider range of mobile applications to their devices, but the concept of the phone app really took off when the first iPhone was unveiled in 2007. Apple introduced the iPhone and the App Store in the late 2000s. This meant developers were now able to create third-party applications for phones. It was also easy for users to download and install these apps on their devices.
The Android Market was also launched in 2008, and this enabled people to download apps on other non-Apple devices. This marketplace was later renamed Google Play. There was a huge amount of growth in the app market in the 2010s when apps became more and more sophisticated. By the time we reached this point, there was an app available for almost everything imaginable, including social media, e-commerce, fitness, music, video, radio, productivity and much more. App development tools and frameworks also saw more development, which made it easier for developers to create high-quality apps.
The 2010s also saw more monetisation of apps. There was a great deal of growth when it came to paid apps, in-app purchases and advertising. Many ‘freemium’ apps were introduced, which users could download the ‘premium’ versions of when they wanted to pay for extra features and upgrades. Other platforms including BlackBerry and Windows Phone also had their own app stores, but these weren’t as popular as the Apple and Android stores. Advancements in cross-platform development frameworks meant developers found it easier to create apps which could run on different operating systems. By the end of the decade, apps weren’t just being downloaded onto smartphones but tablets, smartwatches, TVs and other devices.
By the early 2020s, apps were also being used to control devices and appliances at home including washing machines, TVs and lights. This became known as the Internet of Things. Today, mobile apps give users a host of services and entertainment around the clock. More and more people are carrying out activities like shopping, playing games and managing daily tasks through their devices.
If you’re a developer who wants to remain at the top of their game or a business owner who wants to offer first-class apps to their customers in order to gain a real edge over the competition and drive more sales, it’s essential to keep yourself up to date with what’s happening in the world of app development. Let’s take a look at some of 2025’s biggest and most talked-about mobile app development trends according to the experts.
Microinteractions
In the coming year, small, focused experiences called micro interactions in apps are likely to take over, replacing complicated menus with easy gestures and voice commands. Imagine dynamic home screens, smart suggestions and smooth multitasking. Microinteractions will make the user experience better by increasing engagement, reducing stress and personalising app usage.
Decentralised user feedback
Since the 2016 election, mobile apps have faced issues with bots and misinformation. X (the service we used to know as Twitter) now has Community Notes. This feature lets all users, not just X employees or algorithms, add context or corrections to posts. In the future, more apps are likely to use decentralised user feedback systems to empower their users.
Multiplatform functionality
More and more apps will work on multiple devices. People will expect to see the same app on their phones, tablets, computers and even in virtual reality. The Apple Vision Pro will run iOS apps immediately, and smart developers are preparing for this. As apps become more widespread, adapting the experience will become more challenging.
A greater focus on interpersonal experiences
Expect better, more connected experiences with products, services and people near you when you’re on your phone. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) will be common, and local use of AI and algorithms won’t need lots and lots of internet data. You can expect phone apps to give you richer experiences with other people while shopping, meeting or enjoying content and entertainment.
Super-apps powered by AI
In the coming months, “super apps” with AI and machine learning are likely to rule mobile app development. These apps will blend social media, e-commerce and personal finance, all made better by AI. It means more personalised content and smart suggestions for users across different services. Mobile apps are getting smarter and more versatile thanks to integrated AI.
More on-demand solutions
People still love on-demand services, and this trend is expected to grow in 2024. We are likely to see more on-demand mobile apps in less crowded areas like pet care, cleaning, babysitting and beauty services. Whether you need a chef, stylist, bartender, or decluttering pro, using a dedicated app to find and connect with these specialists may become easier and simpler than ever.
AR integration
In 2025, a big trend in mobile apps will be developers using augmented reality (AR) in different areas. AR can create immersive, interactive experiences, changing how things work in e-commerce and education. This means users can look forward to a more interesting and informative interface. AI can set a new standard for how apps engage and interact with users.
Multimodal learning apps
In 2025, AI-powered learning apps are likely to be big around the world and provide personalised learning for different styles. These apps could mix interactive lessons, augmented reality and AI tutors, helping people master skills efficiently and meeting the demand for personalised education solutions. Many experts say they could make learning better for everyone.
End-to-end encryption
As cyberattacks and data breaches are increasing, more mobile apps will use end-to-end encryption. A study by MIT commissioned by Apple revealed that 2.6 billion personal records were compromised in the last two years. Meta also announced default end-to-end encryption for Messenger. Using more in-app end-to-end encryption is a solution to prevent leaks, which is great for protecting personal information.
Mobile App Development Trends
Integrated digital health tracking
Health tracking is becoming part of everyday apps and offering personalised wellness guidance. Wearables and accessible data drive tailored fitness and nutrition advice.
App factories for medical apps
Healthcare systems will centralise app development with a "mobile app factory" model using pre-approved components to save time and reduce costs.
No-code & low-code software
Simplified tools will empower more creators to build apps without extensive coding.
AR navigation
Augmented reality will overlay digital directions on the physical world for more intuitive navigation.
Improved accessibility
AI and vision technologies will enhance accessibility, offering more personalised mobile experiences.
Progressive web apps
PWAs will merge the best of web and mobile platforms for fast, offline-capable, and responsive experiences.
Integrated voice & command
Enhanced voice recognition will enable hands-free interaction and create memorable user experiences.
Emotional intelligence
Apps will sense and adapt to user emotions via facial expressions and tone, delivering more empathetic interactions.
AI-driven personalisation
AI will tailor content and interfaces to user preferences, enhancing engagement.
Microinteractions
Dynamic microinteractions will replace complex menus, offering smooth gestures and voice commands.
Decentralised user feedback
Community-driven feedback systems will empower users to contribute corrections and context.
Multiplatform functionality
Apps will seamlessly work across devices—from smartphones to VR—meeting rising user expectations.
Interpersonal experiences
Enhanced AR/VR and AI will foster richer, more connected experiences with products, services, and people.
Super-apps powered by AI
Super apps that blend social media, e-commerce, and finance will use AI to deliver smart, personalised experiences.
More on-demand solutions
On-demand apps for services like pet care, cleaning, and babysitting will continue to grow, connecting users to specialists.
AR integration
Deeper AR integration will create immersive, interactive experiences across multiple sectors.
Multimodal learning apps
AI-powered learning apps that combine interactive lessons, AR, and AI tutors will offer customised education.
End-to-end encryption
Robust encryption measures will protect user data against increasing cyber threats.
AI & LLM for improved UX
Advanced AI and language models will create more intuitive and engaging user interactions.
AI and LLM Technologies for an improved user experience
In 2025, we’ll likely see more mobile apps using AI and language models to improve user experience. This means apps can offer more personalized and intuitive interactions, making it easier and more engaging for users.
Why is the evolution of apps so exciting?
The ongoing evolution of apps is very exciting for a range of reasons. Apps continually push technological boundaries, introducing new features and functionalities. They make advanced technology accessible to people around the world and help them carry out what could be complex tasks with ease. The more apps improve, the better and more seamless the user experience becomes.
The app industry has also been great for the global economy and continues to create job opportunities whilst helping companies to drive sales and customer loyalty. Apps have also transformed the way that we communicate with each other, access information and consume content. The world of app development never stops and is likely to offer a whole host of new and exciting possibilities for users and developers everywhere.
Why choose us when you need help with UK app development?
There are many great reasons for choosing us when you need app development support in the UK. We have many years of experience to draw upon and have the expertise and resources needed to help you benefit from the very latest technology. The solutions that we bring to the table build brand loyalty and engagement, making your customers feel closer to you than ever. We have delivered first-class apps to clients from a wealth of industries, and we’re always able to tailor our solutions towards your specific needs.
We can work closely alongside you at every stage to ensure that the final product is the perfect match for your app development needs. We strive to create solutions which don’t just meet current standards but stand the test of time. Each app that we developed is designed with user-centric design in mind. This ensures your app is not only functional but also intuitive and appealing to your target audience.
Another great reason for choosing us is that we always keep you in the loop when there’s important news to pass on to you. We also tweak your app repeatedly until it’s fully aligned with your needs. We also offer a great deal of support after your app has been launched and are renowned for the quality of our maintenance services. You can relax in the knowledge that any issues that are identified will be dealt with promptly.
The process
Once we’ve signed an NDA, we begin the development process. We then carry out thorough market research and analysis to ensure your idea is likely to be a successful one. We will then guide you through all aspects of the development process and create a Specification of Work that documents the full app development plan. Once all contracts are finalised, we’ll start building your app, creating wireframes, working on the UI and UX experience and carrying out rigorous Quality Assurance. We’ll then submit your app for approval.
Once the app is live, we’ll create a robust marketing plan to ensure your app is visible and help you establish and maintain a strong social media presence. We’ll also promote it across a number of channels to optimise its revenue and visibility. Following this, we’ll implement ongoing maintenance to ensure your app remains synchronised with the latest iOS and Android releases. We’ll also update your app regularly to ensure that it stays competitive and relevant in the ever-changing app environment.
Conclusion
The evolution of apps has always been remarkable, and it seems there are many exciting things to come in 2024. From integrated digital health tracking, app factories for medical apps, AR navigation and AI-driven personalisation to improved accessibility, the smartphone owners of 2024 have many great things to look forward to. You can always count on us to embrace the latest technology to deliver the outstanding apps that your business needs to thrive.
Contact us
Now is the time to get in touch to find out more about how we can help you with UK app development.
You can reach us by giving us a call, by sending an email or by completing the form on our site. We will get back to you as quickly as possible so we can quickly get the wheels in motion on developing and promoting the perfect app for your requirements.