When Should You Update Your App? The Complete Guide on Apps Modernization

Work on an app doesn't stop when it's released. From time to time it is necessary to update and refine it, which will save you from problems and reputational risks. How to do it right? When exactly is the time to update the application and what should be considered? All this in our guide.

What is an App Update?

Updating the application means improving and refining the application and its functionality. This may be due, for example, to improving the security of the application or improving its stability.

It can be either a full update or a partial one. Also often the reason for updating may be outdated technology or the need to add features or change the design. Thus, this concept includes a wide range of improvements and enhancements to the application.

Reasons for Updating Your App

Application updates can happen for a variety of reasons. A common practice is to develop an application and add new features to it or the possibility of monetization when the product reaches a certain level.

Other reasons to upgrade include:

1. fixing bugs in the application
2. a request from a user to fix a bug
3. improving security issues
4. improve application performance

Each type of update is preceded by business analysis and clear planning.

App Update Frequency: How Often Should You Update Your App?

According to average estimates, it is optimal to carry out 1-2 improvements per month. This includes various redesigns, minor updates and new features. With this approach, you will be able to cover all aspects of the application and make smooth improvements. But the frequency may vary depending on the functionality and purpose of your product.

Remember that an excessive number of updates reduces audience loyalty. Carefully study the statistics and user reviews before implementing the next update. Another important aspect is the approval of updates by app stores. For example, it may take several weeks for the Apple Store to approve an update.

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Mobile App Maintenance Types

There are 4 main types of application support6 that help create an optimal and secure user experience. Let's consider them.

1. Corrective maintenance

Occurs throughout the lifetime of the application. To a greater extent, it is service as a reaction to any problem that affects the user.

These include: bug analysis; testing after implementation of the solution; prevention and monitoring.

 2. Adaptive service

It is similar to preventive maintenance, but adaptive maintenance requires modification of the system and its components. This usually means major changes in the application itself or the software environment.

These include: software updates; modification updates for compatibility with new versions.

3. Evolutionary service

This type of maintenance helps to overcome long-term problems. It is carried out by the project office or support, depending on the complexity and scope of the update.

With this app update, you can significantly improve existing features and improve the efficiency and safety of the product.

4. Prevention

These are all actions that will help make your application easier to maintain on an ongoing basis. All this thanks to constant monitoring.

These include: continuous monitoring; automatic product testing; monitoring the state of the entire infrastructure.

Major vs. Minor Updates and Promoting App Updates

It is customary to distinguish between three main types of updates: major updates, minor updates, and fixes. These changes are recorded in the version number. While small updates go unnoticed by the user, major updates are a great opportunity to interact and attract new users.

Among the top ways to promote major app updates are:

• description: everything should be accompanied by an explanation in simple language why and why this update was carried out and what the user will receive from it;
• push notifications: your user needs to know about the update and for this you need to prepare an attractive and interesting notification for him;
• advertising on the blog and social networks: announce this update and by doing so you will not only cheer up the old audience, but also attract a new one.

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Factors to Consider When Scheduling New Releases

To implement a lot of work, it is necessary to first analyze the current situation and the profitability of these updates. You also need to rely on user feedback and understand the interests and preferences of your audience, only then app updates and improvements will work for you.

Before starting any action6, you must be sure that there will be someone to do it and there will be a financial opportunity to pay for it. You should also write a clear upgrade plan and take into account the possibility of force majeure.

How Much Does It Cost to Update an App?

In general, you do not pay for updates necessary to fix any bugs or to make your applications compatible with the latest versions of iOS/Android. If we are talking about adding features or more serious and global updates from the technical or design side, the cost will depend on the estimate made by the development team. They will start from the complexity and hourly rate of the attracted specialist.

Final Thoughts: How to Refine Your Application

Updating the application is a constant work on improving the user experience and the overall quality of the product. Never forget. pay attention to the needs and desires of the audience, while researching the market of competitors and having a clear argument for each change.

If you are not sure what and when to implement, you can always contact the company that develops your application. Having a complete picture and expertise, they will help you find a solution.