Mobile apps are what make smartphones truly “smart.” They’re the tools that empower our devices to simplify everyday life.
Today, apps are embedded in nearly every part of our routine—banking, fitness, work, education, entertainment. But this has been the case for more than 15 years, ever since the iPhone launched in 2007.
Since then, the world has changed dramatically: Generative AI, superapps, highly personalized algorithms, wearable devices, and new consumer demands are redefining the digital experience.
So the question is: what’s next for mobile apps? Are we entering a post-app era? Let’s take a closer look.
The Current State of Apps
Back in 2016, Gartner VP Peter Sondergaard predicted that by 2020, apps would be obsolete: “People will rely on virtual assistants for everything. The post-app era is coming.”
But then the pandemic hit—and apps didn’t go away. Instead, they evolved. Sondergaard’s prediction about the growing power of algorithms did come true, but apps themselves remained central to digital life.
According to Statista, global app downloads stabilized between 2022 and 2023. One explanation is the rise of superapps—platforms that consolidate multiple services in one place.
In China, for example, WeChat started as a messaging app and evolved into an all-in-one platform with app stores, payments, and even airline bookings.
Gartner now forecasts that by 2027, more than 50% of the global population will be daily active users of multiple superapps—and we’re already seeing this trend grow.
In Brazil, the Central Bank’s Open Finance initiative is another example, aiming to unify financial services in a single interface.
AI Is Set to Disrupt the App Experience
The real shift in mobile apps may come from Artificial Intelligence.
By 2026, it's projected that 30% of new apps will use AI to power adaptive, personalized user interfaces, up from less than 5% today.
Some early-stage devices are already pointing toward this direction, such as the AI Pin or Ray-Ban’s smart glasses developed in partnership with Meta. These devices operate without screens—interacting instead through AI-driven commands.
Imagine skipping the steps of opening your banking app, making a transfer, and sharing the receipt. With AI, a voice or text command could handle the entire process—securely and instantly.
That’s why many experts believe apps of the future will look nothing like today’s. Rather than screen-based interfaces, they’ll be driven by intelligent agents acting on behalf of users.
How to Prepare for the Future of Apps
This shift brings both challenges and opportunities for technology companies and product teams.
Cybersecurity
A post-app world requires new layers of cybersecurity, especially as AI agents gain access to sensitive data and services.
Fortunately, AI is also a powerful ally in defense—capable of detecting anomalies and automating security operations.
Connectivity and IoT
Without screens, the real world becomes the interface. This demands more connectivity between devices and physical environments, accelerating the role of IoT in daily life.
As a result, the vision of smart cities becomes even more realistic and urgent.
Agile, Data-Driven Decision Making
In a fast-moving digital landscape shaped by AI and IoT, companies must adapt quickly. Agile decision-making, powered by real-time data analysis, gives businesses a strategic edge.
Those who can respond to change—offering relevant, personalized solutions—will lead the market.
Want to see what’s ahead? Explore our Technology Radar to uncover emerging trends for the next few years.
Venturus: Your Partner for the Future of Applications
There’s no shortage of opportunities in mobile development—but the way we interact with apps is changing fast. The future lies in combining AI, IoT, and data-driven insights to create more intelligent and seamless digital experiences.
With over 30 years of experience in innovation, Venturus helps companies build what’s next.
Talk to our experts and discover how we can accelerate your next breakthrough.
