What does the future hold? Just my smartphone and a set of keys
Futurists are predicting a meeting of the digital and real world is not far way. I’d almost say this ‘union’ is already happening. Smartphone (iPhone / Android) adoption in Australia is cited to be outperforming the US by 5 – 10%. Amongst other things, this means retailers also need to unite with the digital world.
Unfortunately, so far many Australian retailers are lagging in terms of digital marketing (in particular mobile and online).
I’ve just come across stats that make it clear that retailers needs a well thought out digital ‘vision’:
• 35% of Australians own a smartphone and 38% have already downloaded a shopping app
So it’s not hard to then make the leap that mobile, particularly smartphones and apps, is already influencing sales and ongoing loyalty.
But shopper apps need to be well thought out and deliver on certain features to be useful.
Other stats from the US and Europe make it clear that shopper apps, to be useful, need to deliver on certain features:
• 84% of US shoppers use their phones while they shop
• 70% are comparing prices
• 67% are accessing product reviews
• 61% are looking for specific store information – hours, other locations
There’s nothing really surprising in these stats, but certainly worth keeping in mind when designing a shopper app. No point in having an app that no one uses!
Now that I’ve got my shopping apps sorted, the next part of the story will be to download Google Wallet (when it’s released), then really there’s no need for my handbag or wallet. My smartphone and car key is all that’s needed. Much easier then for me to carry shopping bags! Ok, time to go shopping…
Tags: Apps, Smartphone
