Connected Devices & Consumer Behavior: Insights for Developers

As penetration of smartphones, tablets, and other connected devices such as smart TVs increases around the world, consumer behavior is shifting but how does this impact developers? InMobis connected device research with Mobext uncovers key trends and the opportunities they create for developers. Consumers are constantly using and switching between multiple devices throughout the day. Tablet users, for example, will use smartphones on the go and while commuting, PCs at work, and tablets and connected TVs at home. Developers should not only ensure their apps work on multiple types of devices but use the cloud to allow their apps to sync in real time, so a user can simultaneously update information from all their devices; smartphones, tablets, and even PCs and connected TVs. This provides users with a seamless experience across all the devices they depend on. The importance of a multi-device strategy is best exemplified through an examination of the shopping process. In many markets the majority of mobile data users are now conducting transactions on mobile; mCommerce has become mainstream. However, these consumers rely on multiple devices throughout their purchase process, depending on their location and the types of items they may be shopping for. At home, tablets and PCs are primary devices throughout most of the stages of the purchase process; while out of home, however, the mobility of smartphones and tablets makes them the preferred devices for everything from comparison shopping to actually conducting transactions. mCommerce makes shopping easier and cheaper for consumers by removing the time and economic costs of travelling to a physical retail location, as well as the time and space constraints of booting up a desktop computer. Thus, smartphones in particular are especially conducive for on the go, time sensitive and convenience purchases. Developers should ensure their mobile shopping experiences maintain a quick and convenient consumer value proposition. SEO is key here; shoppers on the go rely on getting information quickly and in a timely manner. Tablet owners across markets spend more time on digital devices than non-owners, and they are less likely to read print media, watch television, and surf the Internet on a PC after purchasing their tablet. As media consumption activities shift to mobile connected devices, developers have the opportunity to create new sources of content for these media-hungry consumers, and create innovative forms of content delivery. InMobi is continuing research in this area, so stay tuned for additional developer news and insights!