As of April 2023, there are 2.09 million applications available for download on the Apple App Store. As our world grows more digital, more companies have been creating mobile apps. However, the mobile app industry is constantly changing, so companies must be aware of the latest trends. Keeping up with trends will be especially important as iOS 17 is expected to launch in September 2023, and older devices will no longer be able to use some of these technologies. In this blog post, we will discuss seven iOS app development trends companies should be aware of for 2023.

1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

With the rise of tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Bard, artificial intelligence (AI) is quickly becoming more ingrained into our daily lives. For this reason, iOS developers should consider implementing more AI aspects into their mobile apps. For example, the developers of a retail or e-commerce app can use AI to recommend products to customers based on their past purchases. Many apps now use AI-powered chatbots to provide improved customer service to users asking questions about the company's products or services.

Machine learning is an offshoot of artificial intelligence and is the process of using data and algorithms to imitate intelligent human behavior. Examples of how machine learning can be used in mobile apps include giving users recommendations based on their activity, such as Spotify recommending users music and podcasts based on what they typically listen to. Another example of how machine learning can be used in mobile apps is Google Maps detecting how long it takes for users to arrive at a destination. Personalization in artificial intelligence and machine learning can help increase customer loyalty since users will get recommendations that align with their preferences.

2. Augmented and Virtual Reality

Augmented and virtual reality are seeing more use than ever. Previously used for gaming, augmented and virtual reality are now seeing use in other industries. Retail brands like Target, Lowe's, and Wayfair allow customers to see how a piece of furniture would look in their home before committing to buying it. Real estate companies can also develop augmented and virtual reality apps by allowing users to take 3D tours of properties. Companies should develop iOS and Android apps that use augmented and virtual reality to enhance user experiences. These improved user experiences can lead to increased customer loyalty and brand awareness.

3. Apple Pay

The use of Apple Pay has rapidly increased in the past few years. E-commerce, retail, and food service companies should enable Apple Pay in their mobile apps so users can easily pay for products directly from their smartphones. Also, this allows for increased security since payments made with Apple Pay are more secure than traditional credit card transactions.

4. Super Apps

iOS app developers should expect to see more "super apps" in 2023 and beyond. Super apps are all-in-one platforms that offer end-users various services, such as instant messaging, payment processing, and transportation. Super apps are beneficial since they allow users to access these different services from a centralized platform without switching between different applications. With super apps, users can create personalized user experiences by selecting and installing the mini-apps they need for personal or business use.

5. iBeacon Technology

Another trend that iOS app developers should expect to see in 2023 is iBeacon technology. The technology first saw use in 2013 but is constantly increasing. iBeacon is a piece of technology that uses Bluetooth to send signals to mobile devices. iOS apps can use iBeacon to detect the location of devices. An example of how iBeacon technology can be used is through airline apps to give travelers updates regarding flight delays and reschedules. Retail chains can use iBeacon to send deals to customers near a store's location. iOS app developers should develop apps with iBeacon technology because it can improve customer experiences by giving them personalized recommendations, leading to increased customer loyalty.

6. Gamification

More mobile app developers will start to implement gamification into their apps in 2023. Gamification is the application of game-playing elements into other types of applications. These gaming elements can include completing quests to get rewards. Companies should develop apps with gamification to increase their brand awareness and incentivize users to engage with the app for longer periods of time. Companies like Domino's and Starbucks have implemented games into their apps that prompt users to download them and receive coupons and discounts. Gamification apps can also be used in industries such as education.

7. Wearable Apps

Wearables like Apple Watches have been around for a few years, but iOS app developers should start considering developing apps with these devices in mind. Apps integrated with wearable technology are more convenient since users can access the apps anytime, even if they do not have their smartphones. Another benefit that companies can gain from developing wearable apps is that they can provide data that can be used to improve marketing campaigns.

Wrapping It Up

The world of iOS app development is constantly changing, so developers should know the latest trends. Some iOS app development trends companies should be aware of include artificial intelligence, machine learning, augmented and virtual reality, integration of Apple Pay, super apps, iBeacon technology, gamification, and integration with wearable apps.

If companies do not have an in-house iOS app development team, they should hire a third-party agency to assist them with mobile app development. Zorbis is a company that specializes in iPhone and Android application development services. The Zorbis team works closely with their clients to ensure the apps meet their needs. In addition to iOS app development services, Zorbis provides website development and digital marketing services. To learn more about Zorbis, visit us today to hire one of our expert iOS app developers. We look forward to hearing from you!