A mobile app is a software application designed to run on a smartphone or tablet. Apps are typically downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play, and can use device features such as the camera, notifications, location and stored payment methods.
There are several ways to build one. A native app is written specifically for iOS or Android, giving the best access to device features and performance. Cross-platform frameworks let developers share most code between both systems. Hybrid and web-based approaches wrap web technology in an app shell. Most apps talk to a back end through APIs to fetch products, accounts, orders and loyalty balances.
Retailers use customer apps for loyalty and rewards, ordering and click and collect, digital receipts and personalised offers. Hospitality venues offer table ordering and bookings, while many businesses build internal apps for staff, such as stock checking, task lists or handheld sales.
The main considerations are cost and ongoing maintenance, because operating systems change every year and apps need regular updates. Getting customers to download and keep using an app is often harder than building it, so it must offer clear value beyond the website. App store review rules, privacy obligations around collected data and accessibility should be planned from the start.
A mobile app matters when it gives customers a faster, more personal and more engaging experience than a website can. RetailCare develops apps that connect to POS and other business systems.