Apps 101: should I make my app free? With the apple store and android store bigger than ever, everyone is trying to jump onto the app bandwagon. With tons of money to be made, it is an ever-increasing market with tons of opportunity. It is very likely that as an app designer, you have thought about how you plan on making a profit through your app, which has most likely brought you to this. Should I make my app free or should I charge it for a price. Below will be a few things to think about when an app designer is getting ready to put there app for sale.
The competition The first thing to most likely consider is looking at some of the competition. If you are making a game and all the other games are charging for a price, then it might be a good idea to also charge for a price. If similar games are free but offer in-app purchases, then you could consider doing the same as well. Looking around to see what is out there can be a great thing to think about.
Supply and Demand As an app developer, you don’t need to worry too much about supply. You can sell an unlimited amount of apps but trying to get demand for your product can be a touchy subject. The first thing to consider is that many people are looking for a deal when it comes to an app. Most people, unless the app is recommended, won’t buy an app if it costs money. Free apps, by far, receive the most attention. So your app will absolutely see more downloads if you decide to go free.
In-app purchases Perhaps you are thinking, if I decide to go free, then how do I make money? Well there are a few ways to do this. The first and perhaps the easiest way are to off in-app purchases. This can be very simple. In the case of something like a game, you just make power ups buyable or certain map packs buyable. Something that you need to be careful with though is making those that are paying money much better than those who don’t. For you to keep your sales constant and players happy, you need to give those that buy an advantage but don’t make them a superpower against everyone else.
Ad support This is a great option for many developers. If your app is, for example, a weather app, than putting in adds can be a great way to help gain money through your app. You can make the app free, throw a few ads in, and people will be very happy with your app.
The bottom line No matter what you decide to do as far as making money in your app, being the best smartphone app development company is the key to making a profit. Don’t worry as much about the price as you worry about making a good app. A good app will bring more customers in, and will help put you on the map for app development. Photo credit: jorgeq82, catbeurnier, nicmcphee