If 2020 was anything to go by, 2021 will turn out to be another year of fast great progress for app developers. And in 2021 we mobile device users will keep benefiting from new app trends and improvements that are geared towards better meeting our app preferences.

If you’re looking to build an app in 2021 or forge a development career, keep reading below where we outline the biggest areas where you can focus your mobile tech education and growth. Many of these trends have been projected by Dreamwalk, with dedicated how-to guides by Dreamwalk guiding designers and businesses to the future of app development.

Even if you’re just a fan of apps but can’t code, it’s still exciting to know about what mobile app trends to expect for the rest of 2021 and 2022. Here they are:

1. Security, please!

Now more than ever, users are guarding their data with a bit more common sense, no longer accepting endless terms without a handle on what they are consenting to. If your app is not secure and poses any security threat, you can expect to see a lower download rate with the financial theft and data leaks too much of an unnecessary risk in 2021 — especially when most apps are tightening their security.

With mobile banking now the standard in most countries, it will be interesting to see how app developers beef up their security and authentication processes, and what that means for your everyday app that collects data also. Remember, it’s not just financial data that we are protecting, but even basic data like location and age that users are now not wanting to be known to other entities.

2. 5G gets going

The introduction of 5G has been highly anticipated by developers and app users alike, as this will usher in a new phase of usage, speed and possibility. Now that even more users can be connected to a local network and not experience network fatigue or any sort of delay, app developers will only be looking to 5G as the new standard.

At home as well, 5G opens the door for greater connectivity. Think of your car and appliances also benefiting from this new era of technology. This interconnectivity and faster speeds that 5G makes possible will motivate app developers to think more creatively about how and where users interact with their apps.

3. Expanded cloud storage and access

Any uncertainty so far about cloud-based products has been swiftly outweighed by the positives. For one, businesses and users don’t need to seek physical storage solutions; now they can tap into the cloud to store and access compatible systems.

To that end, apps geared toward business, retail and hospitality will develop entirely for cloud-based usage in 2021 and going forward, with this capability proving to be the way forward and certainly more affordable. Homes will also continue to trust and benefit from the cloud, making apps accessible regardless of domestic internet and storage restraints.

4. Hey Google, how big is voice command?

Once a novelty for users, voice command has really come into its own as one of the preferred ways to interact with apps and enjoy handsfree. In fact, Gartner has predicted that by 2030, 30% of web enquiries will be made through voice command — ranging from recreational and professional usage.

With the recent pandemic accelerating telehealth, video conferencing, and other technologies that existed but were not being used to their full potential, voice commands will be embraced in the same vein. App designers should be looking to incorporate voice command into their new builds, as most smartphones contain smart speakers already.

Future innovations

The mobile app trends and advancements we will see in 2021 will rival what we once saw as science fiction in movies and television generations prior. And what’s even more exciting? This prediction is just based on current trends — we can expect to see even more innovations potentially around the corner.

For now, security, 5G, voice command and cloud will each be central starting points for app design, so think about how you can leverage these trends in your own app-building endeavor.

You can always learn about new mobile tech trends right here on MobileVillage, so be sure to bookmark it and return again for the latest.