iPhone users in the US spent, on average, $79 last year on software. That’s up 36 percent from 2017, according to figures from a market analysts firm. Spending on premium apps and in-app purchases has more than doubled since 2015.
Of the 2018 total, $44 was spent just on games, a 22 percent increase year-over-year.
Analysts at SensorTower indicate that last year’s 36 percent increase in iOS software spending beat the 23 percent increase in 2017, but was still below the 42 percent increase seen in 2016.
Purchases in the App Store are critical to Apple’s future. As sales of iPhone are leveling off, the company depends more on income those who already have a handset or tablet.
Chart: SensorTower
App revenue grew across the board
More spending on games alone contributed $8 to the 2018 total, but every type of iOS application saw double-digit growth, and some areas saw really significant increases.
Apple’s revenue from entertainment software grew 82 percent, and spending on lifestyle apps was up 86 percent. Health & fitness apps were up 75 percent.
Chart: SensorTower
Apple is reportedly prepping a pair of low-cost iOS devices that should increase its installed base and therefore the number of people buying apps. There have been rumors of a new iPod touch focused on gaming, while a new iPad mini is also supposedly in the offing.
Source: TechCrunch
