Mobile technology has revolutionised the way people across the world access the internet, social media, ecommerce and other digital platforms. Worldwide, around 50% of total web visits come from mobile users. In South Africa, which continues to experience rapid technological growth, mobile devices have become the preferred method of accessing the internet, and the statistics reflect this trend.
There are 34.93 million active mobile internet users and 23.3 million smartphone users in South Africa. This is a significant percentage of the country’s population and shows how important it is to cater to mobile users and ensure that mobile optimisation is a key part of any digital marketing strategy.
South Africans spend a significant amount of time on their mobile devices, the average being over 4 hours per day. This indicates that mobile devices are the primary means of accessing the internet for most South Africans.
It is worth noting that, while mobile usage is on the rise, access to mobile devices and internet connectivity remains limited in many areas, particularly in rural and low-income communities. By developing mobile solutions that are inclusive and accessible, businesses can tap into the full potential of the South African mobile market and reach a wider audience.
The dominance of Android
The majority of mobile users in South Africa use Android devices, with Google’s operating system accounting for 84.9% of mobile web traffic. The popularity of Android devices can be attributed to their affordability and wide range of options available in the market. If you’re developing a mobile app or website, it’s important to prioritise compatibility with Android devices.
Social media access
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, and 98% of social media users access the platforms using their mobile apps. This illustrates how important it is to optimise your social media presence for mobile devices.
Mobile shopping trends
With 60% of mobile users actively engaging with shopping apps, there is a significant opportunity for businesses to develop mobile ecommerce apps that cater to the needs of their target audience and increase their online sales.
Get the experts in mobile app development
If you’re looking to increase your business’s reach, engagement and online sales in this mobile-first era, contact Netgen today.