Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
In today's digital world, the potential to make it big with a successful app has never been bigger. For app creators, that's great news. Statista reports that the app industry's revenue in 2023 was more than $935 billion, with 14.3% compounded annual growth rate according to Grand View Research.
If you haven't broken into the app market yet, the time is now. The global app market is booming, and there is space for every would-be app creator to come and play. If you have an idea, enjoy solving problems or are someone with a technical creative itch that needs to be scratched, it's time to start monetizing — and Utah Tech Labs can help you every step of the way.
Where to start
Even for experienced app developers the creative process can be intimidating. To help get you started, keep in mind that the best app ideas follow a few key principles.
- Solve a problem: Don't build an app just for the sake of it. Does your idea simplify a daily task, streamline a process or address a common pain point for a specific group of people? If not, circle back on how it can.
- Find your niche: Hyper-focused apps often perform better than apps trying to be everything for everyone. Zero in on a precise target audience with specific needs.
- Offer something unique: In a crowded app marketplace, it's essential to consider what will make your app stand out. A special feature, a focus on an underserved audience or an exceptional design can all be your competitive advantage.
App ideas with money-making potential
Everyone could use some extra cash, and an app can be a great way to earn some significant side income. Need some ideas? Here are a few money-making categories and concepts to inspire you:
- Subscription-based services: Apps with recurring revenue streams like fitness trackers, language-learning tools or meditation guides. My FitnessPal, Twitch, Netflix and Audible are all examples of subscription-based apps.
- Freemium models: Provide a fantastic basic service for free and unlock premium features or extra content for a fee, like Spotify, Evernote and Mailchimp. This brings users in and then lets them choose how invested they become.
- In-app purchases and microtransactions: Popular in gaming apps, this can apply to tools or services too. Think extra lives, exclusive design templates or virtual currency packs.
- On-demand services: Think Uber-style apps, but for everything else! Potential lies in food delivery, dog walking, house cleaning or even laundry services.
- Problem-solving productivity tools: From streamlining project management to apps that make filing taxes easier for the average person, these address universal pain points and offer major convenience.
Tips for success
Even the best app ideas can fail, and when they do it's usually due to some pretty basic misfires.
You'll want to check the app stores and see what's already out there. Understand your competition and define how your app will differ and outshine what's available. It's also a good idea to browse patents and copyrighted content so you don't put too much energy into a product that already exists.
Marketing and funnel flow matter. Remember, launch day is just the start. All the hype in the world will do you no good if you don't have a plan to drive downloads, promote user reviews and keep your app top of mind. Utah Tech Labs specializes in this type of market research.
Utah success stories
If you're still struggling for inspiration, then lucky for you, the tech scene in Utah is thriving.
A well-known app that started in Utah is Route: Package Tracker. With so much of today's retail existing online, it can be frustrating to keep track of your packages and when they'll arrive. Route connects with different shipping companies and retailers to keep track of your orders, tracking numbers, and when you can expect your package to arrive.
The app has 422,000 ratings and an average review of 4.8 stars.
Nursa is an example of filling a need in a specific market. Headquartered in Murray, the company behind the app set out to make a community where nurses and CNAs could pick up extra shifts as needed. Employers post a need for a nurse along with the location and pay, and then someone looking for extra hours and money can choose to accept the shift.
The app has more than 3,300 ratings with an average 4.7 star review.
Many of those companies started as an idea probably not too far off from your own. Let them serve as inspiration for your own journey.
Turn your passion and problems into profits
As you consider ideas for your next app, it's best to think about what you're passionate about. What skills or services could you offer? What everyday frustrations drive you crazy? Start there and brainstorm some tech solutions.
The right idea, well-executed and passionately marketed, can change your financial landscape, and the lives of countless users.
Contact Utah Tech Labs today and let them bring your app idea to reality.
