We are approaching another year mired in the pandemic, and one thing stands out more than ever – technology is a lifeline for each and every one of us in our personal and professional lives. New innovations have kept us connected through social distancing measures and helped us to maintain our day-to-day tasks and routines. Advancements using new technologies like AI and machine learning also played a major role in the development of COVID-19 vaccines, saving countless lives around the world.
The pace of innovation will only accelerate in the years ahead. Consider that 90% of the world’s data has been produced in just the last two years. In 2021, there were 6.4 billion smartphone users, which translates to approximately 81% of the global population owning a smartphone.
As we look ahead to 2022, there is no doubt that digital adoption, development, and innovation will continue to increase significantly and play an ever greater role in our daily lives. While working closely with thousands of engineers, software developers, and leading companies on digital solutions, here are three key trends I expect will be front and center in the coming year.
Internet of Behaviors (IoB)
Internet of Behaviors, also known as IoB, refers to the collection of behavioral and data collected by users’ devices. IoB takes the Internet of Things (IoT) to the next level. It goes beyond just connecting devices and turns the various data sets flowing across these connected devices into actionable intelligence. Organizations use IoB to provide better solutions, personalized services, and targeted products – all based on behaviors, interests, and preferences. The data serves as a benchmark for mapping customer behavior. For example, apps on an individual’s smartphone are linked to multiple devices ranging from their cars to their laptops to appliances in their connected homes. This exponentially increased the amount of data that can be collected and analyzed to better understand each and every individual. By continuously analyzing usage data, listening to feedback, and understanding customers’ needs, developers can provide the right products to the right person at the right time.
Environmental, Social, and Governance Models
Companies that have embraced environmental, social, and governance (ESG) models are addressing increasing demands from their customers, investors, shareholders, and employees. Impact is now just as important – if not more relevant – than profits. Data privacy, trustworthy AI, and physical and mental health are among the top ESG-related concerns regarding today’s apps and products. Software developers need to be at the forefront of ESG and design their products ethically and with the best intentions for their users. Educating users and being transparent about their data, deploying artificial intelligence irresponsibly, and having a positive impact on user health and wellness are a moral obligation for developers globally. Software designed with ESG factors at its core will gain in prominence and become more front and center in 2022.
Development of Super Apps
As a global software development provider, we see many different approaches to application development. Users in distinct parts of the world use apps differently, and that is reflected in how many of today’s most popular apps are developed and deployed. The most dominant apps in emerging markets like the Asia-Pacific region, including China and Latin America are Super Apps. These are “apps within apps” that deliver a multitude of services. These are used mainly in “mobile-first” cultures that push developers to capture a variety of services in the simplest way possible. China’s WeChat is a classic example of a Super App. WeChat began as a basic messaging service and today is used by 1.25 billion active monthly users to order food, hail taxis, and book plane tickets. In one of our success cases we created a Super App that provides access to a full suite of digital banking features to its customers for a leading financial services company in Brazil. Each service and feature works seamlessly as their own mini-app, under the same interface, enabling companies to provide an expanded list of offerings. Super Apps with a range of services and offerings under one umbrella will become more commonplace in Western markets as more users minimize the number of apps they use to provide a more convenient, all-in-one experience.
The pace of innovation continues to accelerate along the digital expectations of today’s consumers. Remaining competitive in this rapidly changing business and economic environment requires staying ahead of the latest technologies and software development trends. Forward-looking software developers recognize and adapt to changing landscapes, consumer habits, and the latest trends to enhance engagement and increase market share.
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