Strategy Analytics says that 2012 will usher in the era of non-mobile apps, predicting that tablets, in-car systems and TVs will drive the trend.
According to the research firm, more than 30 billion apps were downloaded across various connected devices, which the company says is “validation that the app economy is real and here to stay, with more players entering the app space.”
“Manufacturers, developers, and content owners recognize apps opportunities in bringing differentiated products to market while locking consumers into an ecosystem,” wrote Josh Martin, director of apps research at strategy analytics. “As a result, in 2012, many companies will begin integrating apps with their devices while market leaders will seek ways for maintaining their edge in any way possible.”
Martin makes three key predictions for 2012, which he says will have big consequences for the applications space. Martin says Apple will roll out carrier billing in emerging markets; Amazon and Nook app stores will account for more than 25 percent of Android downloads in the U.S.; and a car manufacturer will partner with Android for a dedicated automotive app market.
“The theme for 2012 will be new storefronts, new devices and new business models,” Martin said in a statement.
