Top Mobile App Ideas for Startups

Top 20 Mobile App Ideas Startups Should Consider in 2024

A good mobile app idea is what startups are on the hunt for to start their entrepreneurial journey. To assist you in finding the right mobile app development idea, this blog post lists some of the profitable mobile app ideas that you can consider.

Whether it’s a personal fitness training session, party planning, trying your luck at a casino, booking a taxi, getting your daily groceries, or getting suggestions as a first-time mother, there is a mobile app for it. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that there is an app for almost everything!

Smartphones are omnipresent in the world, with previously recorded 7.1 billion users in 2021 expected to reach 7.49 billion by 2025. This makes it easier for startups looking for an opportunity to capitalize on a mobile app idea for any niche of business or age demographic.

Number of mobile users worldwide

From catering to the growing demand for virtual experiences to addressing emerging trends in health, education, and sustainability, or filling the gaps that potential customers face in these niches, the potential for innovative mobile app ideas is vast. However, as a business owner, if you truly wish to make your venture profitable, you must pick the right mobile app idea to invest in.

Let’s explore some of the popular mobile app ideas.

Top Mobile App Ideas You Should Invest in 2024

In this fast-paced digital world, staying ahead in the market requires identifying promising concepts that align with shifting consumer preferences, technological advancements, and more. Here are some promising mobile app development ideas that you can consider for your next project.

1. Gaming App

Gaming apps are, by far, one of the biggest revenue generators in the mobile app industry. The mobile games market is projected to reach US$98.74 billion in 2024, providing businesses with an opportunity to capitalize on this trend. The larger market and availability of potential users across all categories of user demographics make it one of the safest ideas for entrepreneurs. Nevertheless, one thing is for sure – if you develop the right gaming app, you are bound to succeed!

Here are some of the most successful genres of mobile games:

  • Hyper-Casual Games
  • Strategy Games
  • Role-Playing Games (RPGs)
  • Puzzle Games
  • Massive Multiplayer Online Games (MMOs)

Apart from having engaging features, ensure that your app design ticks all the right boxes in terms of ease of usability and aesthetics.

Take your time to develop a gaming app or get an experienced game development company on board that you think is different from all other options available today. Make it addictive, and you are good to go.

2. Cryptocurrency Trading App

The cryptocurrency market’s recent significant growth, projected to reach US$343.5 million in 2024, is one of the factors contributing to the rise of cryptocurrency-trading mobile apps in terms of user base and revenue generation.

Another major contributor is users’ mobile-first mentality, enabling them to trade on the go. Startups can tap into this significantly growing market, leveraging crypto’s lower barrier to entry (than traditional finance) and the opportunity to innovate their apps with unique features that can make their app stand out in the market.

3. Matrimonial App

For startups seeking app ideas with access to a multibillion-dollar global market, matrimonial mobile app ideas fit this requirement best. The matchmaking market is expected to grow from US$4.07 billion in 2024 to US$4.42 billion by 2029, with an annual growth rate of 1.66% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029.

Among other mobile app ideas, this one has comparatively larger revenue generation potential due to the availability of many monetization strategies.

4. Language Learning App

With the increasing use of the internet and people traveling across the globe to explore places, people, culture, and food, the interconnectedness of the world has increased the demand for multilingual skills, leading to the rising usage of language learning apps. This has led to a surge in EdTech startups and businesses seeking to develop language learning apps like Duolingo to tap into the multimillion-dollar market.

The attestation to this is the statistics from Statista, which showcase the monthly app downloads of some of the most popular language-learning apps, with Duolingo leading the way by grossing around 37.8 million U.S. dollars in in-app purchase revenues in January 2024.

Top language learning apps by revenue

5. Crowdfunding App

Recent times have showcased evidence of how people have started working on various unique business ideas to fill the gaps their potential users have been facing by offering them various tech and non-tech solutions. This requires the project owners or entrepreneurs to raise funds to back their projects financially.

When these projects do not receive funds through conventional channels like VCs, financial institutions, and more, crowdfunding apps enable them to raise funds directly from the public.

With more and more entrepreneurs becoming aware of it, the crowdfunding market size is substantially rising, with a considerable 13.8% CAGR during the forecast period of 2024 to 2032, projected to grow from $1.60 billion to $4.50 billion by 2032.

Our mobile app developers, in collaboration with ACE, have worked on various aspects of mobile app development for this Web3 Fintech platform, which enables businesses in the creative economy or creators to raise capital for their projects from their fans.

6. Table Reservation App

With the increased use of online food ordering apps, consumer behavior towards conventional ways of making reservations at restaurants has changed. Consumers are now shifting to app-based reservations, eliminating the inconvenience of the traditional reservation process.

Apart from convenience, these apps offer various deals and increase transparency by providing estimated wait times so users can plan their dining experience accordingly.

Above all, the global market size of restaurant reservation apps is projected to reach USD 5.36 billion by 2027, making it a safer mobile app development idea to begin your entrepreneurial journey.

7. Cloud Kitchen App

Cloud kitchens have emerged as a significant force in the food industry, focusing solely on delivery and takeout. These kitchens have experienced overall market growth and increased revenue as integration into popular delivery apps like DoorDash and UberEats has become easier. The global cloud kitchen market size is expected to grow from 58.61 billion U.S. dollars in 2022 to 177.85 billion U.S. dollars by 2032.

This can be a great idea for food businesses looking for a more sustainable business plan that requires less real estate investment due to the reduced need for physical space. Even without a physical presence, these kitchens can build brand recognition and customer loyalty by developing an on-demand food delivery app.

Bhoj - food delivery app case study

8. Meditation and Mindfulness App

With the increasing awareness of mental health and well-being, people are seeking self-care practices such as meditation and mindfulness to incorporate into their daily lives. The market is saturated with various mobile apps offering a wide range of services.

To ensure the success of your app idea, entrepreneurs would need to focus on offering high-quality content, personalized user experiences, a freemium model, and possibly target a specific niche. By doing so, they can leverage the global market growth, with projections of the market volume reaching US$7.08 billion by 2028.

9. Virtual Personal Assistant App

Alexa, play “Baby Shark” on Spotify.

Hey Siri, call Dad.

We are now very familiar with these virtual assistants and have been using them for various purposes, from home control (controlling appliances/lights, adjusting thermostats, etc.) to navigation and productivity (taking notes, creating shopping lists, etc.), and more.

For entrepreneurs seeking business opportunities, the market size of virtual assistants using voice technology is expected to hit the 50 billion U.S. dollar mark globally by 2029, with an estimated 150 million users in the U.S. alone. This makes it one of the best ideas for mobile app development.

10. EV Charging Station Finder App

EVs are the new normal, whether it’s cars, scooters, or even trucks. With the increase in EVs on the roads, it becomes essential for drivers to be aware of charging stations along their routes to ensure a smooth journey. However, with fewer charging stations compared to gas stations, it can sometimes be hard to find one. This is where the EV charging station finder app comes in.

The global EV charging app market size was valued at 6,060 million USD in 2022 and is expected to grow to 205,267.11 million USD by 2032, with a CAGR of 40.5% during this period. Though EV charging station finder apps are increasing in the market, you can make your app idea stand out with unique features, other EV-related services, and a focus on various regions.

At MindInventory, we have enabled Mac-EV to seize this revenue generation opportunity for their business by collaborating with them to develop their EV charging station finder app. From mobile app design to development and third-party integration, our mobile app developers worked on the idea from scratch to create an impactful mobile app solution for the client.

11. Disaster Alert App

From earthquakes to solar storms and volcanic eruptions, we have recently faced various natural disasters in a short period. This has made people realize the importance of being prepared for such natural calamities to avoid the worst impacts. Additionally, receiving timely alerts can play a vital role in saving lives and minimizing damage during such emergencies.

Developing a disaster alert app can be an exceptional growth opportunity as it would not only contribute to a larger cause but also empower your startup to showcase your innovative skills. By offering features such as real-time tracking, AI-powered personalization, social media integration, multilingual support, educational content integration, and more, you can create a valuable and impactful mobile app.

12. AI-based Picture Translation App

The rise in global travel and communication has highlighted a gap where travelers, business professionals, and language learners face issues translating signs, menus, or any real-time text, making it a great idea for startups to develop an AI-powered picture translation app to help people overcome language barriers.

In terms of numbers, the overall market value of these AI language translation tools is projected to be US$ 128.4 million in 2024 and is forecasted to reach US$ 290.3 million by 2032, growing at a rate of 8.50% during the forecast period. This offers leading AI ML development company an opportunity to collaborate with startups or established businesses to seize this opportunity and bring a revolutionary AI picture translation app to life.

13. Tenant Finder App

Unlike house rental apps that enable tenants to find rental homes, tenant finder apps enable real estate companies or landlords to easily find tenants and plan their house occupancy in advance, reducing the vacancy period and the losses incurred from it.

This app benefits not only landlords but also tenants by streamlining the search process. With the integration of features like virtual tours, 3D floor plans, integrated communication tools, and more, this app can enable your startup or business to gain growth momentum. Especially if you are a real estate company, developing this app would add a profitable business opportunity to your portfolio.

14. Writing Prompts App

Writer’s block is real, and it can sometimes take an entire day for writers to come up with the content they seek. Having prompts on hand can enable these writers to not only overcome writer’s block but also generate fresh content ideas and inspiration every day.

By offering high-quality prompts, personalized user experiences, and more, you can leverage this mobile app idea as a business opportunity.

15. Virtual Interior Designer App

With the rising interest in making homes look more Pinterest-worthy, many people have started enhancing their interiors through DIY projects or by investing in various elements. This app, with the help of AR/VR technology, would enable them to visualize the changes they want to make before actually implementing them.

Our team has worked with one of our clients, Passio, on their Paints.ai project, which allows users to scan and generate an AR wall with selected colors, empowering them to visualize how their room would look with the color they are considering.

16. Tourist Helper App

With the increased awareness of various unexplored places and social media platforms becoming lucrative in giving potential tourists a glimpse of these destinations, the inspiration to travel around the world has grown recently. This is evident from the expected growth in the travel and tourism industry, which is projected to reach a market volume of US$20.72 million by 2027 at an annual growth rate of 14.70%.

In today’s scenario, tourists seek more personalized experiences from digital solutions. Apps that offer AI-powered recommendations, built-in translation features, reviews, and recommendations from fellow travelers can make a travel mobile app stand out in today’s market.

17. Virtual Party Planning App

Video calls have made it easier for people not to miss any important life events, even if they are thousands of miles away. Virtual gatherings take this concept to a whole new level by celebrating life milestones through virtual parties. This allows people to participate regardless of geographical differences, busy lifestyles, or any factors that would otherwise keep them from celebrating these moments.

Startups can use this idea to develop a mobile app with various features like virtual themed environments, integration of virtual entertainment platforms, AR/VR integration, AI assistance for planning the virtual party, and more.

18. Anti Smartphone Addiction App

Mobile devices, especially smartphones, have become addictive, with people spending most of their spare time on them. In this scenario, smartphone prevention apps emerge as an effective way to ensure digital wellness, leading to improved focus on tasks, increased productivity, better sleep patterns, and more.

Though the mobile app idea is good for startups or businesses to pursue, the presence of productivity apps and digital well-being apps can make this niche highly competitive. Considering personalization, good UI, and a focus on positive reinforcement would enable your app to withstand the competition.

19. Drone Service App

Giants like Amazon, with a global net revenue of 576 billion U.S. dollars, are currently adopting the use of drones for delivery in some cities. Inspired by this, businesses are exploring opportunities to use drones for various purposes.

Some futuristic implementations of drones integrated with mobile apps include surveying or monitoring construction sites, mapping fields, applying pesticides, and more on farms. It is expected to revolutionize the way goods are delivered.

20. Astrology App

One of the major reasons contributing to the rising interest in astrology is platforms like Instagram and TikTok, which have been used by influencers with knowledge of astrology to increase awareness. Furthermore, the recent increase in the availability of websites and apps provides people with easy access to personalized readings rather than the generic ones found in newspapers.

This has become lucrative for the astrology and horoscope market, which is projected to show potential growth to 20 billion U.S. dollars by 2031, making it a splendid opportunity if you belong to this niche and are looking for a startup app idea.

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Turn Your Mobile App Idea into a Reality with MindInventory

We are a leading mobile app development company with expertise in developing mobile apps for businesses from various industries. From native to cross-platform mobile apps, we have an expert team of mobile app developers who have hands-on experience with various latest mobile app development technologies like Swift, Kotlin, Flutter, React Native, and more.

Our mobile app developers for hire have worked with some of the successful startups and enterprises to develop their mobile apps with unique features and functionalities. We offer a wide range of end-to-end mobile app development services to enable you to fill the gaps for your potential customers with innovative mobile app solutions.

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur and are looking for an expert team who can assist you with mobile app development, contact our team to discuss your requirements and get started with your project.

FAQs About Mobile App Ideas

How do I choose an app idea?

The overall goal behind choosing a mobile app idea for a startup or even an established tech company is to find a gap in the existing market and fill it with a solution via a mobile app. However, the process of choosing a mobile app idea involves conducting market research to either identify a problem and brainstorm a new solution for it or to address the problem with an existing solution by improving its weaknesses. Then, identify your target audience to ensure your idea resonates with their requirements. Finally, validate your idea with potential users.

What are the most popular mobile app categories?

The most popular categories of mobile apps dominating the app stores include gaming apps, educational apps, travel apps, business apps, health and wellness apps, utility apps, entertainment apps, lifestyle apps, finance apps, and social media apps.

How much does it cost to develop a mobile app?

The cost of developing a mobile app varies from $5,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the app’s complexity. Various factors affect the mobile app development cost, such as app design, backend development, features/functionalities, mobile app development platform, third-party integration, development team size/location, engagement model, and more.

How to monetize a mobile app?

Some of the popular models to monetize your mobile app are freemium/freemium with subscription, paid app, subscription, in-app purchases, advertising, white labeling, and more.

How to protect an app idea?

Though mobile app development is just the beginning, protecting the idea is important. Some ways to safeguard your intellectual property include applying for copyright or registering trademarks for various aspects of your app, such as the logo, code, and other design elements. You can also consider patenting specific functionalities or unique technical aspects of your app.

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Mehul Rajput

Mehul Rajput, the CEO & Director of MindInventory, leverages his visionary approach and extensive industry experience to empower cross-functional teams. With a focus on web and mobile app development, he drives operational excellence and innovation, consistently delivering cutting-edge digital solutions that exceed global client expectations. His leadership has positioned MindInventory as a leader in Digital Transformation, ensuring success in every endeavor.