If it seems like everyone is glued to their mobile devices these days, it’s not your imagination. According to digital research authority eMarketer, the average American spends 3.6 hours a day on a mobile device. Whether they’re snapping face filter photos, responding to emails or transferring cash, consumers and businesses rely on their mobile devices more than ever. Smartphones and tablets have become essential for social and professional connections, business activities, entertainment and everyday tasks.

With mobile usage on the rise, we have noticed some interesting patterns. Here are four of the hottest mobile trends we’ve seen in 2020:

#1: Augmented Reality

Considering how things are going in 2020, it’s no wonder mobile users are looking to augment their reality. Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive experience that transforms a photo, video or real-world environment. With this cutting-edge technology, you can add a pair of cat ears and whiskers to your selfie, envision your bedroom walls painted a different color or even make a 3D great white shark swim across your backyard. 

Insanely popular apps like Snapchat, Instagram and Sky Map incorporate AR to entertain and delight users. However, AR isn’t just for fun—the tech is also used for business, medicine and even warfare purposes. For example, the U.S. Army taps into AR to create digitally enhanced training for soldiers.

#2: Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI, which allows computers to “learn” from experiences and predict what might happen next based on common patterns, continues to sweep the mobile world. Virtual assistants like Alexa and Siri are forms of artificial intelligence. These handy assistants can help users search for information, remember important appointments and complete tasks. In addition to virtual assistants, an increasing number of mobile apps are incorporating AI to elevate the customer experience and target users with more relevant advertising. 

#3: Location Tracking

You may not know exactly where you are right now—but your smartphone does. It’s no secret that our mobile devices and many of our apps are keeping tabs on our location. Almost every time you download a new app, it asks permission to access your location. This feature is essential for certain apps. For instance, ride-sharing apps like Uber need to know your location so the driver can pick you up in the right spot. However, many apps use location-tracking to more effectively target users with local ads.

#4: Mobile Payments

From PayPal, Venmo and Apple Pay to Google Pay, Samsung Pay and Zelle, payment apps are more popular than ever. Consumers can make quick, secure online and in-store purchases, pay bills and transfer funds to friends and family members—all from their mobile “wallet.” According to eMarketer, 1 billion people across the globe will use a mobile payment app in 2020—and that number is expected to mushroom to 1.3 billion by 2023.

As new mobile trends continue to emerge, consumers and businesses are looking to upgrade to the latest technology. That’s probably why we at Phobio have noticed a surge in device trade-ins in 2020. 

If you want to offer customers a simple and delightful trade-in experience, we can help. Ready to learn more? Contact us today!