PODD

Due to the iPhone’s large customer base and good marketing strategies, around 2 billion iPhone applications have been downloaded since the start of the year. Quite a figure, right? Yes—quite enough for developers and IT professionals to earnestly study the behavior and preferences of iPhone users. Sometimes what may be wonderful and cool to the developers is not what the customers what. So its always a good idea for any developer to know their customers’ needs and wants.

So what do iPhone users consider before downloading an app?

Cool Features

The first thing that potential customers check out is the app’s set of features.  A well-made app will have a full feature-set that ideally should be open to customization and upgrade.  The app must also be definite on what it can offer to iPhone users, considering that there are thousands of other apps on the market.

User Interface

When customers buy an iPhone app, they want to enjoy certain media or they need aid for some task.  Note that the iPhone is a mobile device that was designed for people on the go. Figuring out for hours how to use an app is not acceptable to iPhone users.  It is crucial, therefore, that the interface is easy to use and learn. The lesser the need for instructions, the more saleable an app is going to be.  One trick for this is to take advantage of learned behaviors by making use of icons that mirror real-life scenarios or recognizable from other platforms.   Additionally, the rendition of graphics is important as it increases the value and appeal of an app.  Amateurish graphics will tend to discourage customers, while crisp graphics will likely entice more purchases for the app.

Tech Requirements

One surefire formula for low app sales is when an app’s program continually locks up causing the iPhone to freeze or to restart.  Furthermore, customers also consider the program size of an app, considering the device’s relatively limited memory.   A sizeable app, unless extremely important for certain tasks, is going to receive the thumbs down from most iPhone owners.

Value for Money

The price of an app may be the first or last consideration from among consumers.  It is both crucial and tricky, in any case.  For one thing, if an app is priced too low or offered initially for free, some customers may think that it has low value or it has dismal sales.  On the other hand, an application that is offered at a high price will be scrutinized more for its value.  In one study, even if they feel the need for a certain app (but it’s priced above average), customers tend to conduct thorough research first if the app is worth their money.

Word of Mouth

Reviews from other customers sometimes become the clincher for potential app buyers. Apps that are highly recommended are often bought and downloaded immediately.  Praise from Apple itself can boost the number of downloads of an app.  Among the thousands of applications in App Store, those included in either “Staff Favorites” or “What’s Hot” list have greater chances to profit.