Karat - Build a better app business

In February, Karat released our first app forecast, which introduced the use of advanced data science, industry expertise, and leading information assets to produce a view of the app economy that provides exceptional granularity. The forecast reflected how apps have ascended to become the primary way we communicate, share, shop and enjoy entertainment. We noted a trajectory of increasing downloads and revenue across countries as people around the globe embraced the app platforms of increasingly inexpensive smartphones and rising cellular data speeds.

It can be challenging to keep up with the ever-evolving mobile space. With only so many hours in the week, you’re more likely to focus on your app business over keeping tabs on the industry. We’re all about saving time and sharing insights, which is why we’re bringing you this series. Get last week’s essential news, research and expert guides for mobile — in less than five minutes.

This week’s roundup highlights how retail brands are using mobile apps to drive online sales, updates on Uber and Lyft’s battle for global ride-sharing dominance and the growing opportunity of mobile video.

When it comes to dating apps, Tinder leads the pack, topping the App Store’s Lifestyle category in 87 markets. Now, local apps are changing the game, sometimes even outperforming global leaders.

The trend rings true in Asia, where Korean dating apps Amanda, NoonDate and I-UM all rank among the top revenue generators in our 2015 Retrospective. Additionally, Japan’s Pairs, China’s Momo, and Singapore’s Paktor all showcase unique features that appeal to local bachelors and bachelorettes.

Asia currently houses more than half the planet’s population, so it’s no wonder that new business models tend to catch up quickly in this lucrative market. For the fast-growing ride-sharing industry, it’s no different. On the one hand, international giants such as Uber have poured resources into Asia with mixed results. On the other, regional competitors from each market have capitalized their local know-how to stay ahead in the race for home domination.

One thing is for sure: The ride-sharing industry is just hitting its stride. This will be a hot space to monitor over the coming years as global partnerships and new regional players hit the market.

It can be challenging to keep up with the ever-evolving mobile space. With only so many hours in the week, you’re more likely to focus on your app business over keeping tabs on the industry. We’re all about saving time and sharing insights, which is why we’re bringing you this series. Get last week’s essential news, research and expert guides for mobile — in less than five minutes.

This week’s roundup highlights how to adapt to the changing app economy and smart partnerships that are leading to higher monetization.

Each month, the Karat Index highlights the top-performing games and apps for the iOS App Store and Google Play. Our analysis covers trends among the leading apps across countries and categories, and is the industry standard for professionals looking to compare leading apps and publishers.

Confirmed by Kim Kardashian herself — celebrity apps are a hit. Mobile Role-Playing Games (RPGs) give super fans and curious gamers alike the chance to play as a rising socialite, aspiring singer or even beginning chef with coaching and guidance from their favorite celebrity.

Most of these games operate on a freemium system with free gameplay and the option to speed up completing tasks, or unlock the latest premium gear through in-app purchases.

As mobile continues to grow, it’s fundamentally changing the way we consume media, interact with others (including brands) and ultimately how we live our lives.

Change has come quickly. Ten years ago, before the release of the iPhone, it would have been hard to predict the extent to which mobile would change the consumer landscape. As a result, many slower-moving industries have yet to fully exploit its opportunities.

It can be challenging to keep up with the ever-evolving mobile space. With only so many hours in the week, you’re more likely to focus on your app business over keeping tabs on the industry. We’re all about saving time and sharing insights, which is why we’re bringing you this series. Get last week’s essential news, research and expert guides for mobile — in less than five minutes.

This week’s roundup highlights all things Google — with updates from I/O and experts — along with Apple’s newest accelerator placement announcement.

It can be challenging to keep up with the ever-evolving mobile space. With only so many hours in the week, you’re more likely to focus on your app business over keeping tabs on the industry. We’re all about saving time and sharing insights, which is why we’re bringing you this series. Get last week’s essential news, research and expert guides for mobile — in less than five minutes.

This week’s roundup highlights all things Google — with updates from I/O and experts — along with Apple’s newest accelerator placement announcement.

In Europe, newspaper readership is decreasing as circulation dwindles. At the same time, mobile usage is increasing and there are signs that people are spending more time with long-form news content on their smartphones.

Is the future for Europe’s news companies on mobile? Using Karat Intelligence, we looked at the iOS App Store’s News category in various European countries — and we found publishers in their home markets command a massive advantage.

Lorem Ipsum as their default model text, and a search for 'lorem ipsum' will uncover many web sites still in their infancy. Various versions have evolved over the years, sometimes by accident, sometimes on purpose (injected humour and the like).

Nunc pellentesque dui nisi, vel convallis quam malesuada ornare. Nunc ac purus velit. Cras aliquet porta sodales. Proin blandit ornare bibendum.