Forecasting 2024: This Year’s Mobile Industry Trends
The future of technology is unfolding before our eyes, and at the heart of this transformation lies the mobile industry. For 2024, the mobile landscape is poised for unprecedented evolution, driven by a blend of technological innovation, changing consumer behaviors, and new regulatory dynamics. This article serves as a guide through the top mobile industry trends shaping the landscape in the coming year including privacy transformations, monetization strategies in mobile gaming, AI advancements, and the rise of mobile payment solutions.
Trend #1: Privacy Transformations & Collaborative Innovations
The introduction of the Google Privacy Sandbox represents a seismic shift poised to reshape the landscape of Android advertising. This transformation will significantly diminish the targeting capabilities of publishers on the Android platform, curtailing the availability and usage of user-specific data. Consequently, the precision and effectiveness of advertising campaigns are expected to undergo a noticeable impact.
While not projected to cause disruption on a scale comparable to Apple’s App Transparency Framework, the impending loss of targeting capabilities will inevitably lead to a drop in performance. In response to these developments, there is a growing trend among mobile OEMs towards collaborative innovations. These strategic partnerships aim to mitigate the depreciation of Google Advertising ID (GAID) and its potential ramifications on Mobile OEMs.
Mobile OEMs Open Anonymous Device Identifier (OAID) and alternative tracking standards introduced by OEMs and Mobile Measurement Partners (MMPs) emerge as beacon solutions in this altered landscape. They offer efficient alternatives, helping to sustain the efficacy of advertising campaigns and mitigate the performance drop resulting from the loss of targeting capabilities.
Trend #2: Navigating Monetization Strategies in Mobile Gaming
In 2024, mobile game developers will continue their relentless pursuit of global expansion. This enduring race to conquer diverse international markets underscores a pivotal trend within the industry. Leading gaming advertisers are strategically targeting users worldwide, seizing every opportunity to broaden their reach.
To thrive in this global arena, developers must adeptly navigate the intricacies of monetization strategies tailored to each region. This demands a nuanced approach, blending In-App Purchases (IAP) and In-App Advertising (IAA) to maximize revenue while enhancing user experience.
The rise of gaming hubs like the Xiaomi Game Centre reflects the growing demand for on-demand gaming services. Simultaneously, there's a notable shift away from reliance on dominant platforms such as Google and Apple. Developers are increasingly embracing OEM native app stores - aka alternative app stores - and alternative payment ecosystems, seeking autonomy and equitable revenue-sharing models.
This pivot towards independence is driven by a quest for fair revenue distribution and economic resilience in the evolving landscape of user acquisition dynamics.
Trend #3: AI and User-Generated Content in Gaming
The infusion of AI into game development, creative processes, and user acquisition (UA) optimization is reshaping the operational and creative terrain of the gaming industry. Rather than supplanting human creativity, AI serves to enhance it by providing tools and insights that amplify creative potential and operational efficiency. This integration has catalyzed the rise of user-generated content (UGC), fundamentally altering the gaming landscape.
UGC is catalyzing the evolution of gaming platforms into more inclusive, diversified, and dynamic arenas. Platforms such as Roblox and Epic/Fortnite are emerging as focal points of user-generated innovation, offering users a platform to create, interact, and consume a plethora of gaming content. This democratization of game development and consumption fosters a community-centric approach to gaming, empowering a broader spectrum of individuals to contribute to the gaming ecosystem.
These specific mobile industry trends signify more than mere transient shifts; they signify groundbreaking transformations in industry standards and norms. The proliferation of gaming platforms and the revolutionary changes in payment ecosystems are redefining the parameters of the gaming sphere, unlocking fresh avenues of possibility, and establishing new benchmarks for innovation, user experience, and market dynamics.
Unlock the secrets to success in mobile gaming: Learn the latest user acquisition strategies and trends with AVOW's Mobile Gaming Guide.
Trend #4: Empowering Consumers: The Rise of Mobile Payment Solutions
The rapid adoption of pioneering payment methods by networks and mobile device manufacturers is a remarkable trend. Departing from traditional reliance on tech behemoths like Google, Apple, and Facebook, a shift towards diverse and self-reliant payment systems is evident. This transformation introduces novel avenues for online transactions and fresh online marketplaces, enhancing user engagement and providing developers with newfound opportunities for innovation.
Mobile device manufacturers lead the charge, introducing a myriad of payment options, while new market players invigorate competition and expand consumer choices. Furthermore, the proliferation of alternative app distribution platforms contributes to this mobile trend, offering users a broader selection of applications and injecting vitality into the mobile landscape.
Navigating Mobile Industry Trends in 2024
As we venture further into 2024, the mobile industry continues its dynamic evolution, driven by shifting consumer behaviors, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. It's essential for businesses to anticipate and adapt to these developments to thrive in this ever-changing landscape. The introduction of regulatory measures like the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) further underscores the need for industry players to stay informed and agile.
2024 Mobile Industry Trends: Key Takeaways
- The mobile industry is undergoing significant changes driven by regulations, technology, and consumer trends, including the impact of the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA).
- Strategic partnerships and innovative solutions like OAID and Dynamic Preloads are crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of user acquisition and advertising.
- AI and user-generated content are reshaping gaming, fostering inclusivity and community engagement.
- Mobile payment solutions are empowering consumers and opening new business opportunities.
- Adapting to these mobile industry trends, including regulatory developments like the DMA, is essential for success in the dynamic mobile market.
For tailored solutions and expert guidance in navigating the evolving mobile landscape in 2024, contact our mobile OEM advertising specialists at AVOW, for strategies to enhance app growth, optimize mobile user acquisition, and to stay ahead of both the competition and mobile industry trends for the coming years.
Game On: Alternative App Stores vs Dynamic Preloads
The battle between app creators is heating up. Amid antitrust lawsuits against mobile tech giants, the app landscape is witnessing a surge in competition. Now, app developers and marketers are choosing mobile Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) instead of the usual suspects. Why? OEMs offer various app marketing and advertising opportunities, including Alternative App Stores, Dynamic Preloads, and a variety of display ads. These strategies create a solid base for companies wanting their apps to stand out in an already crowded marketplace. But it's tricky figuring out where to start focusing your efforts. We'll break that down in this blog post and find some clarity.
What are Alternative App Stores?
Also known as owned app stores, proprietary app stores, or OEM app stores, Alternative App Stores serve as bonafide alternatives to the duopoly of Apple's App Store and Google Play Store. Simply put, these are individual app stores created by the manufacturers and operated by individual OEMs such as Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo and Huawei. OEM app stores offer developers greater flexibility regarding exposure choices and payment systems.
Let's talk about Fortnite, the popular online multiplayer game developed by Epic Games. Back in 2020, Fortnite found an exclusive home on Oppo's app store after breaking ties with Apple and Google due to disputes over the 30% commission fee taken from all transactions in Fortnite.
Fast forward to today. Several after its launch, Fortnite has half a billion registered players, 50% of whom are active monthly. Despite not being available on the Apple App Store and Google Play store since 2020, moving to alternative stores hasn't hampered Fortnite's growth; their revenue hit $26 million in 2023, consistently growing by 50 million registered players yearly since making the alternative store move. Additionally, the ongoing legal saga between Google and Epic Games underscores the changing dynamics in how apps are distributed and accessed.
Fortnite's registered player numbers since 2020:
| Year | Total Registered Players Total |
| 2023 | 500 million |
| 2022 | 450 million |
| 2021 | 400 million |
| 2020 | 350 million |
What are Dynamic Preloads?
Dynamic Preloads, on-device preloads, or preloaded apps are part of the out-of-box experience (OOBE) when users set up a new smartphone. This practice involves having specific apps ready for installation during the initial device setup or activation process.
Unlike factory preloads, where apps are already installed without user choice, Dynamic Preloads give users the choice of downloading the app or not - often through a simple opt-in/out checkbox. This strategy aims to enhance user acquisition by placing apps directly on users' devices, offering an improved chance of higher visibility and engagement. For example, some gaming apps using this technique have seen a massive 1000% growth in app installs within six months.
Alternative App Stores vs Dynamic Preloads: A Comparative Look
So now you've had a glimpse at both, let's look at a side-by-side comparison of Alternative App Stores and Dynamic Preloads, explore the unique strengths each brings to the table, and figure out which one might be your winning formula.
Alternative App Stores
- Like thriving shopping districts in every town around the world, offering diverse alternatives to big malls
- Provides marketing opportunities, such as app store featuring
- Allows targeted campaigns based on specific metrics to pinpoint audiences
- Effective for running promotions and seasonal campaigns
- Reach a global audience beyond the saturated Google Play Store and Apple App Store
Dynamic Preloads
- Ability to make a strong first impression
- Users can choose to opt-in or opt-out when downloading the app
- User choice leads to increased engagement and user retention
- 32% of users installing apps/games via Dynamic Preloads show regular interaction (source: AppsFlyer)
- Capitalizes on seasonal and launch surges in smartphone sales for targeted promotions
- Example: Launch of a specialized gaming phone to run a gaming Dynamic Preloads campaign on
Alternative App Stores vs Dynamic Preloads: Not a Competition, But a Collaboration
In your marketing toolkit, these strategies don't compete; they work together as a dynamic tag team. It's like having two players in a game - and your goals and budget decide whether one takes the lead or they team up for more impact. Dynamic Preloads is the player making the strong first impression, and Alternative App Stores is the player that keeps you in the game long-term through ongoing visibility. It's about making your presence known and cementing yourself in the app world.
Both have a role in the game against traditional mobile advertising and big tech app stores - and combining Alt. App Stores with Dynamic Preloads is a smart way to ensure your app or gaming app is both noticed and maintains a lasting presence in the game for the long haul.
Join gaming clients who've achieved 8.4 million app installs in 8 months with Dynamic Preloads. Ready to hit these high scores too? Contact the AVOW team to level-up your app game!
AVOW 2023 Highlights - The Year in Numbers
That's a Wrap for 2023: Cheers to Another Fantastic Year!
As we bid adieu to MMXXIII, we're wrapping up a year of growth, achievements, and shared successes at AVOW. Let's reminisce about the 2023 highlights that defined our journey and look forward to the exciting adventures that await in the coming year.
13 Locations Worldwide: From Berlin to Beijing
In 2023, AVOW strategically expanded its global footprint, establishing a distinguished presence in 13 diverse locations. AVOW cultivated expertise in each nation from Berlin to Beijing and spanning across Germany, Brazil, the United Kingdom, the United States, France, the Philippines, Turkey, China, Spain, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, and the CIS region.
Team Diversity Flourishes: 60+ New A-Team Members from 30 Different Nationalities
Welcoming a dynamic mix of 60 new colleagues from 30 diverse cultures didn't just beef up our A-Team - it showcased our dedication to building a workspace as varied and vibrant as the world around us. AVOW's A-Team Company Retreat in Berlin was a cornerstone, bringing team members together from every corner of the globe for a memorable week of bonding and collaboration.
7 Prestigious Awards and Recognitions
AVOW secured seven esteemed distinctions, claiming coveted titles such as Xiaomi Core Agency of the Year for 2023 and a top 3 spot in the AppsFlyer Performance Index Global Finance Category alongside industry giants Google Ads and Meta. Notably, being crowned Vivo Global Core Agency for 2024 has undeniably propelled AVOW into the spotlight.
In addition to these remarkable accolades, we are a proud OPPO Strategic Core Partner in the Philippines and Vietnam, further solidifying our strategic influence in these regions. Furthermore, our Gold Agency Distinction with Transsion Mobile Internet cements our position as a leading specialist in global app growth.
Globetrotters Unite: 30 Events Attended Worldwide
AVOW crisscrossed the globe, participating in 30 key industry events, including the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona where OPPO and AVOW co-
Celebrating Life: 3 Babies and 3 Furry Friends
In the midst of business, AVOW joyfully celebrated life by welcoming three precious new babies into the world. Additionally, our AVOW family warmly embraced three furry friends—Billy (Sir William), Soju, and Forbes - adding an extra layer of joy to our daily lives.
Thriving Partnerships: 10 Mobile OEM Collaborations Blossom
AVOW forged ten flourishing partnerships with mobile Original Equipment Manufacturers (what is an OEM?), solidifying our commitment to collaborative success and innovation in the dynamic mobile advertising landscape.
Guiding the Way: 2 New Comprehensive Guides Unveiled
AVOW unveiled two insightful guides—the Mobile OEM Advertising Guide and the new Dynamic Preloads and Mobile Gaming Interactive eBook - empowering our customers with strategies for success in the dynamic landscape of mobile marketing.
Digital Success: 8.4 Million Dynamic Preloads
In the mobile app game, every install holds immense value. In 2023, AVOW achieved a remarkable milestone by securing 8.4 million app installs for our gaming clients between January and August, utilizing Google Play Auto Installs (Dynamic Preloads). This was a number definitely worth sharing!
Learning and Connecting: Inaugural Live Session in London
In November, we held our first physical Learn and Connect session at The Strand oche in London with our esteemed partners Appsflyer, Xiaomi and OPPO. The session, which involved presentations and a panel discussion, included a deep dive into mobile OEMs and their offerings, how to best weather the tracking storm in 2024, and insights from Xiaomi and Oppo on what the coming year will have in store. We're looking forward to more Learn and Connect sessions in 2024.
Saying Goodbye to Our Current Berlin HQ: A New Office on the Horizon
After six remarkable years full of memories and milestones, AVOW bid farewell to its Berlin HQ, marking the end of an era. But with growth on the horizon, AVOW prepared to set sail for a new, larger space only a stone's throw away in early 2024 - simply put, we need a bigger boat!
And that's our 2023 highlights. To everyone we have met and collaborated with this year - a huge thank you. Here's to a bigger and brighter 2024!
Untap Your App's Potential: 7 Benefits of Dynamic Preloads for App Developers and Marketers
As an app developer or marketer in the super competitive mobile app market, standing out and capturing your target audience's attention is no small feat. Enter the dynamic duo of Dynamic Preloads via Google PAI (Google Play Auto Install). Unlike traditional user acquisition channels, this approach the can catapults your app straight into the hands of new users. Here are the top 7 benefits of embracing this powerhouse combo as part of your app marketing strategy:
1. Users Always Get the Latest Version of Your App
Dynamic Preloads through Google PAI ensure that when users fire up their mobile devices for the first time, the freshest version of your app is already waiting for them from the Google Play Store. This feature eliminates the need for manual updates on the consumer side, enabling users to enjoy all the latest features and functionalities right out of the box - meaning a great user experience from the get-go.
Key Points:
- Users get the latest features, skipping the hassle of manual updates
- A great user experience from day one
2. Organically Improve Your Play Store Rankings
Every time someone installs your app using this method, it counts towards your Google Play Store numbers, organically improving your app's ranking. This means more people see and install your app, resulting in consistent long-term growth. Numerous gaming apps using this strategy have seen an 1000% increase in app installs within just 6 months - as highlighted in this excellent Dynamic Preloads and Mobile Gaming Guide.
Key Points:
- Get your app noticed with better app store rankings
- AVOW's gaming clients have achieved 10x more installs
2. Lower Your User Acquisition Costs
By adding dynamic app preloads to your mobile marketing efforts, you'll spend less time trying to gain new users than you would with the traditional factory preload advertising route. This saves you money and gives you a better return on your investment. All in all, it's an intelligent choice for app developers and marketers looking to grow their user base without breaking the bank. In fact, it's so effective that some gaming clients spend, on average, about three-quarters of their advertising budget on Dynamic Preloads.
Key Points:
- An affordable way to get more users vs traditional ads
- The choice of gaming clients: they allocate 75% of their budget to this approach
3. A Much Faster Turnaround From App Launch to App Discovery
App developers can anticipate a shorter turnaround from the app's launch to its discovery by users. Simply put, your app will get noticed quicker. This instant discovery as users set up their new devices is a fantastic way to introduce your app into the world, immediately grabbing people's interest.
Key Points:
- Get your app noticed when they set up their phone
- Grab user's attention and keep them engaged
4. Hassle-Free Integration
Forget tech headaches. With dynamic pre-loading, advertisers no longer need to stress about software development kits (SDKs) or head-scratching technical integrations. This more straightforward advertising process gives advertisers the time and energy to concentrate on developing intelligent strategies and content.
Key Points:
- Easy set-up and no tech stress
- Gives advertisers the time to focus on what matters
.
5. Cost-Per-Install, Smart Spending
With a cost-per-install model, you only pay when users install your app. This ensures you allocate your budget wisely, making the most out of every dollar for effective user acquisition.
Key Points:
- You only pay when users install your app
- Spend smart, get more value
6. User-Friendly Opt-Out Functionality
Nobody wants unwanted apps. Forced downloads are like that awkward guest who crashes the party - just ask Apple and Bono about their unforgettable iTunes blunder. It's always a beautiful day when users call the shots and have the power to not download an app if it doesn't fit their needs and interests. Letting consumers decide for themselves means you're not just acquiring users; you are acquiring the right ones. A genuinely interested user can lead to better engagement and retention.
Key Points:
- Users can avoid unnecessary apps easily
- Know that your new users are truly interested in your app
The Benefits of Dynamic Preloads and Google PAI at a Glance
✓ Your app is always up-to-date for users
✓ Improved app store rankings
✓ Cost-effective user acquisition compared to traditional UA methods
✓ Swift app discovery by millions of new users
✓ Effortless integration
✓ Smart payment model
✓ User-friendly opt-out
How to get started with Dynamic Preloads
Dynamic Preloads via Google PAI offer a modern, user-focused approach to app marketing and acquisition. By leveraging these benefits, marketers and users will enjoy a superior experience tailored to their unique needs and interests.
Looking to up your game in mobile user acquisition? Consider adding Dynamic Preloads to your marketing strategy. Connect with the AVOW team, and let's get your app in the hands of a global audience.
👾 📲 Download our free Dynamic Preloads and Mobile Gaming Guide for even more insights!
AVOW Names Melissa Bohlsen as New Chief Marketing Officer
AVOW has named Melissa Bohlsen as its new Chief Marketing Officer.
Melissa will lead AVOW's marketing team, bringing over 15 years of experience in the mobile industry. Formerly the Vice President of Marketing at Adjust, Melissa played a significant role before its acquisition for a monumental $1 billion in 2021, Melissa's strategic prowess extends beyond Adjust to her role devising digital strategies for BCG Digital Ventures, Boston Consulting Group’s dedicated business-building arm in Germany. During her noteworthy stint as Global Marketing Director for Glispa, Melissa contributed to the company’s prominent rise in the mobile marketing landscape, attracting industry attention and resulting in a substantial $100 million acquisition in 2015.
When given the opportunity to become the new CMO at AVOW, Melissa didn't hesitate for a second: "I've always admired AVOW's pioneering approach in mobile advertising. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, combined with their growth ethos and dedication to innovation, makes this an incredibly exciting journey that I am thrilled to be a part of."
Robert Wildner, AVOW's co-founder and CEO, is equally excited about Melissa coming on board and the many doors her experience will open. "Having Melissa join our team is a significant milestone for AVOW," he says. "As we prepare for our next phase, her leadership skills and expertise in mobile marketing will be invaluable. With her at the helm, I am confident that we will not only continue our growth trajectory but also set new industry benchmarks."
Melissa Bohlsen taking on the role of AVOW's new Chief Marketing Officer couldn't have happened at a more important time in the ever-shifting mobile space. With Melissa leading the way, drawing on her extensive experience, AVOW is ready to navigate the evolving landscape and thrive, especially with upcoming regulatory changes like the Digital Markets Act - where AVOW offers strategic alternatives for app developers and mobile marketers looking for greater reach and more independence.
AVOW Announces Global Core Partner Role with vivo, Elevating Presence in Southeast Asia
AVOW is proud to share a significant milestone in our ongoing partnership with the global smartphone manufacturer, vivo. For 2024, we have been chosen as one of vivo's Performance Ads Global Core Agencies across Southeast Asia and other key regions. This marks a significant year for the continued growth of both vivo and AVOW in this part of the world.
Being hand-picked as one of Vivo's core partners truly speaks to the heart of the collaboration. It reflects the strong bond we've created and our shared commitment to excellence - validated through Vivo's thorough evaluation process.
As we step into 2024, AVOW is excited to widen its influence as vivo's Strategic Core Partner in Southeast Asia - opening the door for clients eager to explore a market bursting with opportunities.
Are you an app developer or marketer looking to enter or improve your position in the Southeast Asian mobile market? Do you want to tap into the advertising inventory of one of the most popular mobile OEMs in this region? Leverage our partnership with vivo and other mobile OEMs by contacting us today!
Dynamic Preloads and Mobile Gaming: A Statistical Overview
By now everyone should be familiar with what Dynamic Preloads are. To the uninitiated, it refers to the out-of-box experience (OOBE). What is that? That is the user experience when a new phone is taken out of its box and powered on for the first time. Dynamic Preloads is part of this OOBE, and is the first touchpoint between users and a mobile app or game. When a user powers on their phone and is in the midst of setting it up, they get recommended certain apps or games to install as part of the setup process. Once users have made their choice, these apps/games are then installed directly from the Google Play Store via Google Play Auto Install (Google PAI). All of this happens seamlessly and with as little intrusion as possible into the user experience.
Why are Dynamic Preloads Important
Dynamic Preloads is the first chance for your mobile game to make a good first impression with users, and the statistics prove it. 32% of users who install games via this method regularly interact with and engage with the game, as compared to 14% of users who install mobile games via traditional means. In other words, users are over 2 times more likely to not just play your game, but keep playing it over the weeks and months after installing it via Dynamic Preloads. There are several reasons for why this is so.
- Offers the user choice and the ability to opt in to installing games which they like, thereby increasing the likelihood of them engaging with the game long-term.
- Another major reason is the trust that mobile OEMs hold with their users. When users see an app being recommended by the mobile OEM, they trust that those recommendations are good and for high quality games. This Trust is also what makes this dynamic strategy so powerful for user acquisition.
Dynamic Preloads: Some Relevant Statistics
- Dynamic Preloads have become such a mainstay for some of our gaming clients that on average, 75% of all their advertising budget is spent on Dynamic Preloads due to how effective they have been in acquiring new and engaged users
- The return on ad spend (ROAS) is enormous, with it ranging anywhere between 8% to a whopping 95%
- 4 mobile OEMs currently offer Dynamic Preloads as part of their portfolio
The 4 mobile Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs):
- Xiaomi
- OPPO
- Vivo
- Transsion
The World of Mobile Gaming
Mobile gaming is huge. More than huge in fact. It is estimated to be worth US$286 billion in 2023. But what is it worth in individual regions?
- Mobile Gaming in Asia is worth a staggering US$98.32 billion
- That number in EMEA is US$17 billion
- MENA accounts for US$4.4 billion
- Africa accounts for US$1.55 billion
To put things into perspective, mobile gaming revenue is worth half of the entire gaming sector. The average revenue per user (ARPU) is also high, standing at US$150. For an even greater perspective, both the global box office and the global music industry combined are only a tenth of that of mobile gaming revenue.
Mobile Gaming: Some Relevant Statistics
Asia's mobile gaming scene is on fire, with an average revenue per user of almost 90 USD and a staggering 1.33 billion players. Females account for 39% of all mobile game revenues, showing significant engagement in this space. In-app purchases are popular among both genders with one out of four male gamers and one out of five female gamers spending money on them.
- In Asia, the ARPU is $86.97
- Asia boasts a massive gaming population of 1.33 billion gamers
- Female gamers account for 39% of all mobile gaming revenues
- When it comes to in-app purchases (IAP) in games
- 1 in 4 male gamers spend money on gaming IAP
- 1 in 5 female gamers spend money on gaming IAP
Dynamic Preloads and Mobile Gaming: A Match Made in Heaven
In such a lucrative industry, competition for users and their dollars is fierce. That is where Dynamic Preloads come in, acting as a power-up to your gaming user acquisition efforts. It's an evolution in mobile user acquisition, combining ease of use for the users, with ease of setup for developers looking to take advantage of it. And with the right partner and mobile OEMs in tow, game developers can take their user acquisition to a whole other stratosphere.
The statistics and numbers presented here are merely a sampling of the data and insights we have garnered through our years as one of the leading mobile user acquisition specialists. To fully understand the power of Dynamic Preloads with mobile gaming, download our free guide here, and learn all you need to know.
If you’re ready to enhance your mobile user acquisition strategy add Dynamic Preloads to your marketing mix, contact us today to get your game into the hands of an untapped global audience.
Dynamic Preloads and the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE): Why First Impressions Matter in Mobile
'You never get a second chance to make a first impression' - this is a phrase we all know very well. It especially rings true in mobile, where customers expect more and the competition is fierce. One tried and tested way of making a great first impression is by investing time and effort into the user's first experience - what is called the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE). In this article, we will take a closer look at the OOBE and how Dynamic Preloads can be used to create that ever-important first impression - which in turn strikes positive relationships with consumers from day one.
First Interactions When Unpacking the Out-of-Box Experience
Just like in real life, first impressions in our digital lives can make or break a relationship. For instance, when we first interact with a new mobile app, we decide pretty quickly whether it's worth our time or not - based on factors like relevance, design, usability, functionality, and of course, speed. The out-of-box experience is the first (and maybe last) chance to impress and convince users of your app's value.
A poorly designed and executed OOBE, or, for example, slow loading times, can cause frustration for users and lead to them giving up on your app at the get-go. But a well-designed out-of-box experience can create an instant wow moment and lead to a long-lasting relationship.
Imagine getting a new smartphone, and during the setup process, you can choose the apps you want, so when your phone is fully booted you're ready to go. Chefs kiss! On the other hand, think of a lengthy setup process and afterward having to endlessly scroll through crowded app stores. That's different from the experience you want. So, to ensure users have a hassle-free first interaction and OOBE, it's wise to consider Dynamic Preloads.
The Role of Dynamic Preloads
Simply put, Dynamic Preloads involves presenting users with recommendations during onboarding. While our focus here is more on mobile device onboarding, it's worth noting that this approach is also employed during app onboarding.
Instagram and Snapchat do a great job of making the most of the users' first experience by preloading content, such as trends and suggested accounts, so they engage with the app right from the start. Dynamic Preloads are those account suggestions.
Mobile OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) have evolved this approach by allowing users to opt in or out of suggested apps and games during setup, thereby letting users curate the best experience for themselves. The upside to this approach? You are almost guaranteed higher engagement and user retention, as users have made their own choices and are more inclined to want to engage with the app and its content.
A Few of the Many Advantages of Dynamic Preloads
Dynamic Preloads offer a wide range of other advantages that can greatly improve user experience and performance. Here are a few:
Always delivering the latest app version directly to customers
In keeping with the theme of making the right first impression, one surefire way of doing that is ensuring that users are immediately granted access to the latest version of your app or game. This provides the smoothest experience possible, with all the kinks and bugs ironed out. Unlike factory preloads, which typically ship out a version of your app/game that is 6 months out of date, and so users have to manually update to the latest version - which is likely an off-putting experience.
Improve your apps ranking in the Google Play Store
Developers are always looking to crack those top charts on the Google Play Store but need help finding ways to improve their download numbers in order to do just that. That is where preloading enters the equation. Through Google Play Auto Install (Google PAI), every instance of a user opting to download an app/game through this preloading method is another download through Google Play. How? Dynamic Preloads gets the latest version of the app through the Google Play Store, thereby adding to its organic download numbers and aiding in the Play Store ranking and discoverability algorithms.
Reduce user acquisition costs
Compared to factory preloads, Dynamic Preloads require much lower budgets and commitments, making it perfect for developers to try. Additionally, the flexibility of setting up Dynamic Preloads at any time means no time constraints on when and how to do it. Compared to traditional app marketing, Google Play Store Sponsorships, or outright app advertising via social media and influencer sponsorships, Dynamic Preloads represent a cost-efficient yet premium user acquisition strategy that delivers results.
Add Dynamic Preloads to Your Mobile Marketing Mix
As technology advances further, the benefits of Dynamic Preloads will continue to expand. This feature is crucial for the success of any application. Developers should strongly consider integrating it into their marketing mix to enhance the out-of-box experience and overall user experience, ensure smooth functionality, and increase app installations.
To learn even more about Dynamic Preloads and how they can increase app installs by 1000% within the first six months, check out this interactive Dynamic Preloads and Mobile Gaming Guide.
Ready to level up? Connect with our team at AVOW to turn your app into a success story.