Features that a mobile app should have depend solely on the nature of the app. It is important that apps are designed keeping convenience and simplicity in mind and therefore too many features in a single app might not work out too well or the app might not be used to its full potential. The mobile app you develop should have one primary function and features that relate to that single function only. However, there are some key elements that should be included in all apps when it is being built so that the app is made available on different platforms and can be used by people conveniently. Let’s nail these key features:

Offline Functionality

The hottest apps are those that work offline. These apps allow users to access them at any time they want without looking for internet connectivity. Many gaming apps are now using this function, integrating their offline apps with their online platforms when a connection is established. Design and check how the app works in offline mode and improve offline functionality as much as possible.

Tutorial Screens

Since you are developing the app, you’ll find it extremely easy to use, but it won’t necessarily be that easy for your target audience. Therefore, you should provide app tutorials that explain the other features and functions of the app in detail. An introduction help screen can be 3-4 steps. A simple tutorial presented once when your app is turned on can increase the use of your app. While ensuring that it is being used to its maximum potential, serving all the functions it was designed to perform.

Another great example of a tutorial screen or a ‘help’ screens within the actual app. Is one below, which we helped create for Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Canada called Community Scout.

App Analytics

Creating an app without having any means to measure its performance is not a wise thing to do. You should pick a dependable and accurate app analytical suite and include it in your app so that you can get all the information regarding the usage patterns of your app.

I would recommend Flurry as your app analytics tool. I always refer to it as the Google Analytics of mobile apps.

App Store Downloads is Not Analytics. It’s like Driving a Ferrari in neutral – it just doesn’t make sense.

If you don’t add an analytical feature, the only way you’d be able to track the performance of your app is through app store download figures which is as good as having no information.

Progress Bars

Several functions of an app take some time to load, especially if the app is using 3G connection. In such cases, leaving your users staring at a hung-up screen is not a good idea since they’d more likely close the app thinking that it is not functioning. Adding progress bars or wheels is a good idea to let your users know app is processing the information they asked for and will come up with it shortly.

So, when you start building your mobile app, make sure these elements are added to it. While the other customized features will be added in due course, these essential features are a must have for all mobile app builds.