Mostly apps experience an update that either fixes bugs, tweak some features or adds some extra functionality. Very few apps and that too less often pass through major update which fundamentally turns the users’ experience into something different or extraordinary. While appreneurs feel the dire need for an update in their app only when they want their brand to offer a newer experience, unique set of features and give it a new look, there are many other reasons that signal that an app awaits for a major update. Let’s have a look at some of the criteria or indicators that hint an update requirement.

#1 Prevalence of glitches

A majority of users state the reason to leave an app is its glitches or bugs problems. In fact, a hefty percentage of users straightaway abandon apps if they experience bugs for once or twice a day. Regardless of how much glitchy an application is, it’s pretty obvious that “just one strike and it is out of the market”. It is thus mandatory to update it just for the sake of removing bugs or any errors. Apps makers should consistently run tests and quality checks for weeding out all glitches.

#2 Apps’ key metrics failed to show desired results

Apps’ engagement is the vital aspect that shows up the performance and position of the app. Relevant metrics like the number of downloads, users ratings, load time, usage, retention rate, average revenue per users, users acquisition determine their performance. So, any downturn or slump in these metrics indicates the sheer need for updating it to a newer version.

#3 Security is at stake

Of course, this is one of the most persuasive factors showing that an application needs a major update. For mobile users, security is a big concern as they are becoming more technology savvy each day. Their concerns have a reason too! Apps are absorbing or using their personal data, location-specific information and financial credentials which gets reported to third-party service providers like payment gateways. Despite such data are only necessary for providing great and seamless experience to users, makers need to pursue an update boosting the security when they know that users hesitate to engage with the application only fearing privacy issues.

#4 Codebase is getting old

Lastly, focussing on the development aspect, an app needs a major update if its codebase starts ageing. A two or three years old codebase is also assumed to be an old one because technology is pacing fast and so do apps development. It is altering too rapidly in this mobile-first era. Thus, an obsolete or ageing codebase is a major driver to go for a full-fledged update.

It is certainly pointless to push a major update in your app just to keep pace with market trends and beat competition with some quirk additions to it. These are the actual persuasive facts for the app makers and owners to know when their business application needs a thorough update or rather a real update.