24 January 2025
Nick Rossman, Anti-Fraud Programme Director, Mobile Ecosystem Forum
For businesses within the mobile sector to stay ahead of the curve, it is important to understand the key trends that are likely to shape the industry in the coming years. Here are the top 10 mobile industry trends to look out for in 2025.
1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML)
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is expected to have a profound impact on the mobile industry, leading to more personalised and intelligent app experiences. The increasing availability of big data and advancements in AI/ML algorithms are driving this trend. However, concerns around data privacy and the need for ethical AI development are key challenges.
2. Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented reality (AR) overlays digital information onto the real world, enhancing user experiences. AR is expected to become more mainstream, with AR shopping experiences becoming the norm. The global AR market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 33.5% from 2024 to 2025.
Advancements in mobile device hardware and the availability of new wearable AR headsets are driving this trend, but high development costs, technical limitations, and user adoption remain challenges.
3. Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology provides secure and transparent transactions, enhances data privacy, and enables new business models in the mobile industry. It is expected to have a significant impact on the mobile industry in 2025, leading to more secure and transparent applications. The blockchain industry is projected to reach a market size of more than $42 billion.
The increasing need for data security and the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies are driving this trend, but scalability, energy consumption, and regulation remain challenges for blockchain adoption.
4. Low-Code/No-Code Development
Low-code/no-code platforms enable faster app development with minimal coding skills, making app development more accessible and cost-effective. These platforms are crucial for startups and enterprises aiming to develop scalable apps without large development teams. And by 2025, low-code or no-code systems will be used to develop 70% of businesses' applications.
The increasing demand for rapid prototyping and deployment is driving this trend, but limited customisation, scalability issues, and security concerns are challenges for low-code/no-code development.
5. Cloud-Driven Mobile Apps
Cloud-driven mobile apps leverage cloud infrastructure for scalability, data storage, and real-time updates. They are expected to become more prevalent, offering enhanced functionality and seamless user experiences.
The increasing demand for scalable and cost-effective mobile app solutions is driving this trend, but security concerns, vendor lock-in, and complexity are challenges for cloud-driven mobile apps.
6. Extended Reality (XR)
Extended reality (XR) encompasses Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality, creating immersive experiences that enhance user engagement and offer new possibilities in various sectors. XR is being used for gaming, training, education, and marketing.
XR is expected to become more integrated into mobile apps, offering immersive experiences and personalised interactions. XR also has the potential to revolutionise learning and collaboration by creating immersive learning environments and facilitating remote teamwork.
Advancements in XR technology and growing consumer interest are driving this trend, but technical limitations, user experience concerns, and content creation complexity are challenges for XR adoption.
7. On-Demand Apps
On-demand apps — which provide instant access to services like food delivery, transportation, and healthcare — are expected to continue to grow in popularity, expanding into new sectors and offering more diverse services. Consumer spending on apps is projected to surpass $270 billion.
The increasing demand for convenience and personalised services is driving this trend, but challenges include security, network connectivity issues, and competition.
8. Motion Design in Mobile Apps
Motion design enhances user engagement and creates more intuitive and interactive app experiences. This trend involves using animations, transitions, and micro-interactions to improve usability and visual appeal.
The increasing demand for engaging and user-friendly app experiences means motion design is expected to become more prevalent in mobile apps, enhancing user experience and brand perception. However, challenges include ensuring smooth performance and accessibility across devices.
9. Touchless User Interface (UI)
Touchless UI enables users to interact with devices using voice commands, gestures, and other non-touch methods. This trend is driven by the increasing demand for accessibility and hygiene; the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of touchless technologies.
Touchless UI is expected to become more prevalent in mobile devices, improving accessibility and user experience. The touchless sensing market is projected to reach $15.3 billion in 2025.
Technical limitations, user adoption, and privacy concerns are challenges for touchless UI implementation.
10. Digital divide
While there are many trends to be excited about, a huge challenge for the mobile sector will be the continuing issue of the digital divide. Not all regions or populations will benefit equally from advancements in mobile technology. While urban areas and developed countries may fully embrace 5G, AR, and AI, rural areas and developing nations may lag due to inadequate infrastructure or high costs. Bridging this gap will require collaboration between governments, telecom operators, and technology companies to ensure equitable access.
