Singapore Mobile App Usage Surges: TikTok Takes the Lead in Engagement and Monetization
Singaporeans are increasingly spending more time on mobile apps, averaging almost 19% of their day or 4.51 hours, according to a recent report from mobile app tracking platform data.ai. The study also revealed a steady growth in mobile app usage over the past four years, with an average of 4.17 hours in 2020, 4.30 hours in 2021, 4.43 hours in 2022, and finally, 4.51 hours in 2023.
Comparatively, Singapore’s mobile app usage remains relatively lower than other nations. In 2023, Indonesia took the lead with the highest average of 6.0 hours, followed by Thailand, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil, where users spent over 5 hours daily on mobile apps.
The recent State of Mobile 2024 research by data.ai highlights that consumer spending on mobile applications reached $171 billion in 2023, indicating a 3% year-over-year growth.
Among the mobile apps, TikTok has emerged as the frontrunner in terms of user engagement and monetization. The popular app has surpassed $10 billion in lifetime spending, largely due to its content creator tipping feature. The report predicts that in-app purchases will account for the majority of the projected 150% increase in direct consumer revenue, expected to reach $1.3 billion by 2024.
Besides TikTok, several other apps have shown promising growth and development in 2023. Chinese shopping apps like Temu and SHEIN, generative AI apps like ChatGPT, Ask AI, and Open Chat, travel apps with tour and flight booking services, and real-world event ticketing apps all display potential for future advancements.
Singapore’s internet population as of January 2023 stood at 5.81 million, accounting for 96.9% of the total population, with 89.5% of these users accessing the internet via mobile phones or apps. In addition to social media usage to stay connected with loved ones, Singaporeans also utilize these platforms to read news articles and stay updated on current events.
This rise in mobile app usage can be attributed to the global pandemic, which led to lockdowns and increased reliance on smartphones. Despite the supposed return to normal in 2022, individuals who embraced new apps and habits during the pandemic have continued to persist in their usage.
Overall, the growing mobile app usage in Singapore coupled with increased consumer spending on mobile applications reflects the evolving digital landscape and the importance of app engagement and monetization. As Singaporeans continue to integrate mobile apps into their daily lives, it creates opportunities for businesses and app developers to cater to their needs and preferences.
