Pokémon Go—Who Knew It Would Be Such A Hit?
Pokémon Go was launched in the United States on July 6th 2016, and in Canada just two weeks later on July 17th. The gaming app is unique in that it is a location-based augmented reality app that requires the use of your iOS or Android GPS and camera. This interactive game was an overnight success that became the fastest game in history to top the App Store and GooglePlay best sellers list. Within the first 10 days, it had more than 21 million active users, and was generating an average of $1.6 million in revenue each day—and that’s only counting the US. Fast forward to July 30th after an official launch in a few more countries, the app had 30 million downloads and counting. But how did they do it?
Interactive And Augmented Reality
No one ever would have imagined the success of this new gaming app, but it is the innovative combination of mobile gaming, augmented reality, and user interaction that seems to be the big attraction. While the app is free, as with most gaming apps, you can upgrade and access additional features by making an in-app purchase. Gamers can even wear a Bluetooth device and use Pokémon Go Plus to locate nearby players. While the game can be played solo, it has become a popular group game.
The “Go” Part Of The Game Has Caused A Few Problems
The “Go” part of the app has caused a few problems. Since the game requires you to be outdoors to geo-locate Pokémon, it has been the cause of a few accidents and public nuisances. The app leaves most gamers distracted by their screens, and not paying enough attention to their surroundings. This can be quite dangerous, even when on foot. In fact, two Canadian teenagers were detained by the US Border Patrol after accidently crossing the US border into Montana while playing the game. They were released without charges. Don’t be fooled though, it’s not just kids and teenagers downloading this gaming app, but adults too—and even families are play this game as a group.
Outperforming Social Media
This new app is so popular that its daily usage on Android devices has exceeded that of the reigning social media apps—Snapchat, Tinder, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. The question on everyone’s mind is, how long will this success last? Most apps reach a peak that soon fizzles, or evens out. In fact, many brick-and-mortar businesses are capitalizing on the success of this hot new app by hosting Pokémon events at geo hotspots.
While it’s not realistic to expect the unprecedented success of Pokémon Go, mobile apps nonetheless can be quite profitable. You have to start with an innovative idea, and work with a mobile application developer to bring your innovation to life.
About the Author:
About the Author:
The author is great mobile application developer in an IT Company in Canada, he has good knowledge of mobile application development.
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