Superapps

What if instead of switching between several different apps, there was a one-stop portal for most of your needs? Welcome to the dawn of the superapp.

A superapp is essentially an all-in-one solution to mobile application design. It allows a user to access several services from one single app. This reduces the need to download multiple apps to perform different functions.

According to Gartner, a superapp is like a Swiss army knife — with a range of component tools (miniapps) that the user can use and remove as needed. Superapps are trending because users, especially the younger generation born in the age of smartphones, demand mobile-first experiences that are powerful and easy to use.

Superapps support growth and scalability

Many superapp developers started with just one app. Expanding and adding more services is then the natural extension to growth. In addition, there is immense potential for growth with superapps, as there are always more services and features that can be added down the line.

The idea of the super app first gained popularity with the messaging app, WeChat in China. WeChat doesn’t just let you message your friends and see their updates in a feed – it can also be used to take out a loan to buy your next car.  

Software providers are creating broader ecosystems by leveraging superapps as well. Fintech company Revolut has created a super app that’s already banking 20 million users. In addition to offering digital banking services, they have expanded their ecosystem to businesses, allowing them to offer services in the same place.

Superapps and enterprise

Superapps can consolidate and replace multiple apps for customer or employee use and support a composable business ecosystem, this can open up new digital business opportunities in industries or adjacent markets.

From fintech to banking, companies are increasingly looking at new ways to leverage mobile experiences to meet user needs. Corporations are also leveraging superapps to improve employee experience, creating designated work hubs rather than forcing employees to use multiple disparate apps.  

Gartner expects that by 2027, more than 50% of the global population will be daily active users of multiple superapps. The superapp concept will also expand to include enterprise mobile and desktop experiences, such as workflow, collaboration and messaging platforms.

Already, organisations are transforming their apps into superapps, while others are hoping to be associated with any popular such apps. This will result in more people signing up for their applications. Additionally, due to the growing demand for superapps, they are likely to receive increased attention.

Keep in mind, people will always download an app that meets their needs, therefore it’s crucial to consider how your app simplifies their lives.

We can help you put the ‘super’ in your apps. Contact us today to talk about the first steps to providing an all-in-one solution for your organisation.