Rapid technological advancements in Bangladesh (due to the rapid increase of inexpensive smartphones, improved internet access, and a highly connected generation) mean mobile apps are now an integral part of how we live. They provide all aspects of our lives – including communication, entertainment, banking, education and shopping – with growing acceptance and use. As the popularity of mobile application use continues to increase, many different types of applications are showing up as the top-of-mind for users in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh is seeing a shift in users’ habits, economic factors, and choices that can be supported through mobile applications; therefore, app downloads are mostly focused on using social media and related services for entertainment, business promotion, news and information, and content production (influencer content) by many local makers.
Mobile Payment and Finance Apps Gain Trust
Bangladesh’s shift toward a cashless economy has resulted in an increase of digital payment applications. People now use mobile wallets and banking applications to transfer money, pay bills and shop online. In addition, there are many benefits to digital payment applications. They help improve the financial inclusion of a growing number of people, particularly those who do not have access to traditional banking systems.
The Rise of E-Commerce and Delivery Applications
As online shopping and meal delivery services become everyday items within urban communities, they have become essential components of modern life. Grocery shopping, online fashion, and food delivery services are all examples of how online delivery services provide convenience, speed, and selection to customers at their doorsteps. Both of these services have become very popular with users of digital payment apps due to the convenience of both of these services, as well as the frequent discounts and promotions that are available to app users.
Small businesses that are using digital payment applications have been able to reach customers outside of their physical market.
Steady Growth of Education and Utility Applications
As students become increasingly interested in using learning applications for either examining or improving their language skills or taking online courses, we are also starting to see the rise of utility applications that allow users to use digital payments for services such as ride-sharing applications, health services, and government-related tasks. All of these applications represent the shift toward a more mobile-first approach to solving everyday problems.
A Glimpse into the Digital Future of Bangladesh
The success of all of these types of applications is indicative of the development of Bangladesh’s confidence in adopting digital technologies. As connectivity increases and innovations continue to grow, we will see continued growth in the use of mobile technologies.
FAQs
Q1: In Bangladesh, what has led to the rapid growth of mobile applications?
Low-cost internet, the availability of smartphones, and a youthful demographic have contributed to this growth.
Q2: Which category of mobile applications has the highest number of downloads?
Social media applications and video-centric mobile applications have accounted for most of the downloads.
Q3: Are mobile payment applications considered reliable by the general public?
Overall, mobile payment applications are increasingly becoming acceptable methods for making day-to-day purchases and for paying bills.
Q4: Are local mobile application developers competing against global application developers?
Yes, local mobile application developers are developing applications that address specific regional and cultural needs of end-users and are becoming increasingly popular.
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