In 2009, smartphone users downloaded 2.6 billion apps. According to a new report from Juniper Research, that number will jump to 25 billion by 2015, in part due to the spread of smartphones around the world.
The report cautions app store owners that copying Apple’s model won’t be enough to ensure success. “Customers are buying the iPhone for the apps,” says report author Dr. Windsor Holden. “That’s not been the case with other handsets.”
The report also reveals that most apps are now offered on a “freemium” basis, where users get the basic app for free, but pay for add-ons and additional services.
