Top Mobile Trends for 2016

Mobile devices were once far-fetched accessories in science fiction films. Today, their evolution is so swift and impressive that it’s difficult for most people to keep up. As technology advances, the needs of mobile Web designers and marketers evolve as well. From year to year, and sometimes month to month, what makes a website engaging and fully functional changes drastically. To keep visitors engaged and avoid becoming obsolete, website owners should always stay on top of what is happening in the mobile realm. Based on current trends and expert predictions, here are some of the top mobile trends for 2015:

More Precise Local Content

An increase in localized content will begin to emerge in 2015 for a few reasons. Studies routinely show that the vast majority of people are turning to the Internet when they need a local service or product. In the coming year, expect the standard of localized content to be refined. For instance, many businesses may include in-store or even near-store notifications in their mobile apps. As an example, when a customer is in the electronics department, the app can push deals specific to televisions or other technology to their mobile device. An emphasis on local content also means more search results will be returned in local languages, particularly in emerging nations where sites available only in English present a barrier.

More Robust Mobile Payment Options

Among the other mobile technology trends in 2015 is a change in the number of mobile payment options. Stores like Starbucks® have already successfully implemented a way for customers to pay via mobile by simply swiping their device across a scanner. In addition, systems like Apple Pay™ make it possible for consumers to avoid carrying a physical credit card. Expect to see more ways for mobile users to pay using apps instead of typical currency exchange.

Emphasis on m-Commerce

According to Amazon.com®, more than half of its sales during the 2014 holiday season originated from a mobile device. This stunning statistic means that one of the major mobile design trends for 2015 will be an increase in mobile commerce, or m-commerce, functionality and advertising. More than ever before, it is vital for mobile apps and websites to lead customers down an easy purchase path. And you’ll see that many of the mobile website builder software systems out there are focusing on ease of use too. Mobile-exclusive deals, push notifications, and content appealing to the demographics that most frequently use mobile for purchasing (such as moms) are all trending this year.

Staying on top of mobile design and mobile marketing trends in 2015 is more important than ever as more of the world is on the go. Long gone are the days when targeting users who are on a desktop sufficed as a strong online strategy. From finding local businesses to committing to major purchases, the world is living life on their smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. Keep these 2015 mobile trends in mind to make life easier for mobile users and increase the traffic on your mobile sites and apps.