By 2020, there will be an estimated 6.1 billion smartphone users globally. Keeping a close eye on demographic trends is an important factor for remaining on the cutting edge of the app economy and honing in a target audience. Today, teens make up one of the most influential cohorts to watch. Growing up in the Internet age with heavy consumption of social media, apps, and Internet-based content make them a prime market for at least five decades.

Teens Dedicate Time to Apps

A majority of American teens report having access to an internet connected device: 73% have access to a smartphone, 87% have access to a desktop or laptop, and 81% own a gaming console. Data suggests that teens spend up to 11 hours a day in front of a screen with six hours spent on mobile phones alone.

Asian markets are even more promising with mobile app usage now surpassing the US. Games account for a large portion of this surge and game developers have taken note of this burgeoning opportunity.

Messaging and Social Media

Recent Pew Research shows that American teens still prefer texting above all else. It's not surprising to see messaging apps continue to rise in popularity, especially when paired with a favorite social media outlet. Offering incentives through SMS messaging options and ensuring social media login integration is seamless taps into these user preferences.

Data reveals a couple of short-term trends to capitalize on now. First, app developers who focus on mobile games have a huge global opportunity for an audience that craves games and dedicates hours to playing. Second, social media and messaging integration are key to teen customer satisfaction.

In the long-term, developers should be encouraged that heavy app consumption and mobile usage is here to stay. Teens consider technology as an integral part of their lives, and following their trends and preferences over time will be key to success as they transition into adulthood.