Users are spending half of their digital time using smartphone apps. Almost all of the top 15 mobile apps are mostly all platform businesses.
The top 15
- Facebook
- Facebook Messenger
- YouTube
- Google Maps
- Google Search
- Google Play
- Gmail
- Pandora Radio
- Instagram
- Amazon Mobile
- Apple Music
- Apple Maps
- Pokemon Go
- Snapchat
- Pinterest
A platform business enables the exchange of value between consumers and a network of producers. Their business can be conducted primarily on mobile devices. Successful apps such as Uber, Snapchat and Airbnb create value for users on both sides of the platform –those who provide content or services, as well as those who consume them.
These apps are providing new types of value. They are aggregating content from a variety of sources and making them available via a centralised platform.
They are offering new modes of socialisation. Snapchat has changed the way that young people communicate by reimagining communication for the platform economy.
And, in a time-poor world, these apps are offering convenience to their users.
Sources: ComScore; Inc.com.