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January 22 2025
In today’s world, smartphones are packed with countless apps. According to a report, the average user interacts with over thirty different apps each month to complete various tasks. These apps cover everything from utilities and entertainment to shopping, travel, and social media.
Billions of smartphone users are using apps tailored to their interests and needs. Brands have recognized this trend and are creating mobile apps to maintain strong connections with their users. Apps are accessible on smartphones, tablets, and other devices, allowing businesses to potentially reach billions of users with just a single app.
As previously mentioned, the number of apps available is vast.
- Want to book a hotel? Open a travel app.
- Need to order food? Use a food delivery app.
- Need to transfer money? Access a finance app.
- Shopping for clothes? Visit an online shopping app.
The problem is, managing all these separate apps can be overwhelming. That’s why a new model emerged to bring all these services together in one platform – the super app.
What is a Super App?
Super app was discovered by BlackBerry founder “Mike Lazaridis” in 2010.
A super app consolidates multiple apps and services into one seamless experience. With a super app, users can chat, order food, book tickets, transfer money, shop online, buy groceries, and even pay utility bills—all without needing to download multiple apps. Everything is conveniently housed under one digital roof.
These applications streamline life for users, making everyday tasks quicker and easier. This is why more businesses are offering multiple services through a single app, as it not only benefits users but also offers long-term advantages for the brands behind them.
Super Apps: One Platform, Endless Possibilities
Super apps are revolutionizing at the speed of light and are now a big part of daily life. Users don’t want the hassle of downloading and managing separate apps for every task—they prefer a single app that lets them complete various tasks with just a few clicks.
In Southeast Asian countries, the concept of super apps is not new. Apps like WeChat, Grab, and GoJek offer a wide range of services, including food and grocery delivery, banking, entertainment, and travel. These apps have become ingrained in the daily lives of users in ASEAN nations. In 2020, Splyt raised $19.5 million from Softbank to develop their own super app, further emphasizing the growing demand.
The appeal of super apps lies in their convenience. Users don’t need to switch between different apps to complete tasks, making their digital experience smoother. Super apps also benefit businesses by simplifying updates and reducing marketing costs, as existing users are already familiar with the platform.
Lets look at these perks that super apps offer:
- Convenience: One app for multiple services.
- Wide Range of Services: Everything from banking to shopping in one place.
- User Experience: A seamless, hassle-free experience.
- Saves Phone Storage: Reduces the number of apps needed.
- Business Growth: Easier access to a larger market and more users.
The primary goal of a super app is to foster a lasting relationship with consumers by offering an all-encompassing digital experience. With fewer apps on their phones, users are more likely to stick with a user-friendly app that serves multiple purposes.
Super apps like WeChat and Grab have become indispensable, allowing users to chat, order food, transfer money, and book tickets—all within one platform.
Why a Super App Is Essential for Your Business Evolution
Traditionally, banks and financial institutions were the go-to places for payments and deposits. But the rise of FinTech has dramatically changed the landscape. Now, users can make payments or transfer funds directly from their phones, and the financial sector is quickly evolving to keep pace.
Advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing are playing key roles in shaping the future of digital finance. For example, China’s Ant Financial (formerly Alipay) has become a leading super app by incorporating these technologies into its offerings. From business loans and wealth management to insurance and biometric services, Ant Financial provides a one-stop-shop for users. Blockchain, in particular, helps lower operational costs while securely managing large amounts of data.
Super apps like these are reshaping traditional banking services by integrating multiple financial tasks into a single app, making it easier for users to manage their finances without needing separate apps or websites.
Transform Your Digital Experience with a Super App.
Simplify payments and services with one app.
5 Super Apps That Redefined the Digital Era
A KPMG report highlighted that one of the main reasons for the growing popularity of super apps is the shift in consumer behavior. Today’s consumers want solutions that save both time and money.
While Western countries are still catching up, countries like China, India, and Japan have already developed super apps that have set a global standard. Let’s take a closer look at five super apps that have revolutionized the modern world.
Launched in 2011 as a messaging app, WeChat has since evolved into a comprehensive super app offering everything from taxi booking to food delivery. With over a million mini-programs, WeChat’s monthly active users grew by 8.2% in early 2020. It’s now one of China’s most popular apps, and its wide range of services continues to expand.
Alipay
Originally a small part of Alibaba’s eCommerce platform, Alipay has grown into a powerhouse in the Chinese market, offering services like payments, movie ticket booking, cab rides, and food delivery. Alipay had reached over 1.3 billion users by March 2020.
Gojek
Starting as a ride-hailing service in Indonesia, Gojek has expanded its offerings to include food delivery, grocery shopping, and household services. Today, it operates in over 23 countries and is valued at $5 billion.
Amazon
Amazon has also joined the super app race, offering services like Amazon Pay, Amazon Pantry, and Amazon Prime. The company is working to unify all its services into one app, allowing users to shop, stream, and pay with ease.
Grab
Initially founded as a ride-hailing service in Malaysia, Grab has since expanded its platform to include groceries, digital payments, video streaming, and more. With over 2.8 million drivers, Grab is a key player in the ASEAN market.
Conclusion
Super apps offer immense value to both consumers and businesses. If you already have a strong customer base, developing a super app could help expand your services while providing greater convenience to your users. Consider the example of Zomato, which quickly pivoted to grocery delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting to meet customer demand.
For businesses today, the key question is how quickly they can respond to changing consumer needs before someone else does. PureLogics is an expert mobile app development service provider and we can help you develop your dream application. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation!
