It comes as no surprise that Singaporean businesses are opting for a mobile-first strategy, as APAC reported over 50% smartphone penetration in the country last year. He claimed that the average smartphone user in Singapore had around 40 apps installed on their smartphone at a time. Most of these apps fall under the category of social media, as 64% of the population is active on social media according to We Are Social in 2016. The other big draw is gaming, as App Annie showed that the first few Ranked on the Apple Store are Minecraft, Clash Royale, Monopoly, Mobilestrike, and of course the latest sensation, Uber.

Since the dawn of the mobile app era, users have been drawn in two main directions: Android or iOS. Windows is still a popular operating system, but it’s obviously no longer competing for the top spot. There are various other operating systems, which are employed by small segments of mobile app users. However, they do not occupy key positions in the mobile application market.

Apple’s position in Singapore

Apple has a lot of credibility among peers and consumers alike. It has a very focused marketing strategy that is clearly displayed in the iOS apps. Apple is in a class of its own and all the competition knows it. It has a strong presence throughout Asia, especially in Singapore, as the city is a driving technology hub. Many of them are based here and work as freelancers for companies in the West who subcontract. App users are used to the best and gravitate towards iOS devices for that reason. The Next Web revealed that the country had the most iOS devices per population in recent years.

Google spotted in Singapore

Android is a completely different story. Google’s marketing strategy differs greatly from Apple’s. These tech giants seem to be moving their brands in completely opposite directions. They do not have the same objectives and as I will explain, their target audience is not exactly the same. Most Asian economies are third world countries, so most smartphone users turn to Android.

There are some key factors that determine the current status of Android and iOS apps in Singapore.

App Monetization

Application development is a business that, like any other, runs on money. If you visit an app store, you’ll notice that the main downloads are all free. Everyone loves free stuff and Singaporean users are no different. The era of the smartphone has raised the expectations of users considerably. With UX in the spotlight, app developers in Singapore have stepped up their game. Obviously, a lot goes into creating an app, so companies are reluctant to release it as free. Some great monetization strategies have been introduced, such as in-app marketing. Many companies now offer free apps with premium plans that have advanced paid features.

This tactic is true for most Android apps on the Google Play Store, but iOS apps don’t follow the same path. Apple users tend to be loyal and don’t mind paying for high-quality apps. They are used to paid applications. Many iOS apps have multiple pricing packages depending on the level of features you want to use. The trend towards free apps with premium plans is on the rise as App Annie shows that paid apps are mostly games like Minecraft on iOS.

economy and budget

When you have a brand like Apple, you know you’re getting your money’s worth. As iOS devices are well loved, app developers tend to give priority to this operating system. Of course, another factor comes into play here. Apps are all about providing a great user experience and usability, so the app developer will need to look at user preferences. If your target audience mainly consists of the upper crust, you may blindly decide to go with a native iOS app. It’s no secret that Apple devices and software are quite expensive compared to Android. Those who can afford them invariably go for the iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices.

Most of the Asian population cannot afford to buy and keep iPhones, so Android is the next best option for them. It is not a loss because Google has a wide variety of devices and constantly updates its operating systems. There is something for everyone as you can find affordable and luxury smartphones among Android devices. If a business is trying to reach a larger audience, Android apps can really boost their profits.

application development plan

You will discover native, hybrid, and cross-platform apps, but native ones are preferred as they provide a seamless user experience. Native app developers are in high demand in Singapore and are paid quite well as well. Android app development becomes relatively complex if you need to compile it for multiple versions. It also takes longer this way. Although iOS apps don’t have the same problems, they are more expensive to develop.