Can You Turn Your Shopify Store into an App: Benefits, Costs, and How-To
Can you turn your Shopify store into an app? The answer is a resounding YES!
In today’s mobile-first world, offering a seamless shopping experience on smartphones is crucial for any e-commerce business. While Shopify stores provide a mobile-friendly website, a dedicated app can take your customer engagement and sales to the next level.
This blog will be your one-stop guide to transforming your Shopify store into a powerful mobile app. We’ll explore the benefits, delve into the costs, and walk you through the step-by-step process of making it happen.
What is a Shopify mobile app?
A Shopify e-commerce mobile app isn’t a one-size-fits-all app offered by Shopify directly. Instead, it’s a way to transform your existing Shopify store into a dedicated mobile application for your customers.
This app allows them to browse and purchase your products directly from their smartphones or tablets, creating a more convenient and engaging shopping experience.
eCommerce mobile apps are becoming increasingly popular; 88% of customers own at least one shopping app on their phone, and 60% of consumers prefer to shop via mobile apps due to superior user experiences.
Why consider turning your Shopify store into an app?
Mobile commerce is booming. According to eMarketer, mobile sales are expected to account for nearly 74% of all e-commerce sales worldwide in 2024. This means a significant portion of your customers are likely browsing and purchasing through their phones.
So, how can a dedicated app benefit your Shopify store? Here are some compelling reasons:
1. Enhanced user experience
Apps offer a faster and more streamlined shopping experience compared to mobile websites. Features like push notifications, one-click purchases, and fingerprint logins make buying smoother.
A study found that users spend 4.2 hours on average per day on their mobile phones in 2023, with a significant portion of that time dedicated to shopping apps. A well-designed app can keep your store at their fingertips.
2. Increased engagement
Apps provide a more immersive experience, allowing you to push targeted notifications, loyalty rewards, and exclusive deals. This helps build a stronger connection with your customers and keeps them returning for more.
A report highlights the power of push notifications, stating that they can increase app engagement by up to 800%.
3. Improved brand recognition
A branded app puts your store right on your customer’s home screen, increasing brand visibility and recognition. They’ll be more likely to think of you first when it’s time to make a purchase.
4. Valuable customer data
Apps allow you to collect valuable customer data on shopping habits and preferences. This data can be used for personalized marketing campaigns and product recommendations, leading to increased sales.
5. Offline functionality
Some app builders offer the ability to include limited offline functionality, allowing customers to browse products and save items for later purchase even without an internet connection.
Can I Turn My Shopify Store Into An App?
Absolutely! Shopify stores can’t be directly converted into apps, but workarounds exist. Shopify app builders let you create a mobile app that mirrors your store. These are user-friendly and affordable compared to hiring custom developers.
You can find them in the Shopify App Store and they offer features like push notifications and loyalty programs to keep your customers engaged! It’s a great way to take your Shopify store mobile and boost your business!
Costs to Consider When Turning Your Shopify Store into an App
There are three main ways to create a mobile app for your Shopify store:
1. Custom app development
This offers the most control and flexibility but comes at a premium cost. Hiring developers to build a native app for iOS and Android can range from $20,000 to $150,000 and requires ongoing maintenance fees.
2. Shopify app builder
The Shopify App Store offers several app builders that can convert your Shopify store into a mobile app. These are generally more affordable, with monthly fees ranging from $29 to $299, depending on features.
3. Third-party app development
This involves finding a third-party app development company like Plan My Apps outside the Shopify ecosystem. Costs can vary greatly depending on the developer’s experience.
Additional costs to consider:
- App Store submission fees (typically a one-time fee for both iOS and Android)
- Ongoing app maintenance and updates
- Design fees (if you want a custom app design)
The good news is that the benefits of a mobile app can often outweigh the costs, especially when considering the potential for increased sales and customer engagement.
Factors to consider when choosing a Shopify app builder
1. Features
Essentials: Ensure the app builder offers core functionalities like push notifications, in-app purchases, and loyalty programs.
Advanced features: Consider features important for your business, such as wishlist functionality, social login options, or abandoned cart recovery tools.
Offline functionality (Optional): Does the app builder allow customers to browse products or save items for later purchase even without an internet connection?
2. Budget
Pricing models: Shopify app builders typically offer tiered pricing plans with varying features and app usage limits. Choose a plan that fits your budget and scales with your business growth.
Hidden costs: Consider any additional fees like app store submission fees or ongoing design customization costs.
3. Ease of use
User interface: Look for an app builder with a user-friendly and intuitive interface, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. Many offer drag-and-drop functionality for easy customization.
Support: Does the app builder offer reliable customer support via email, chat, or phone?
4. Design and customization
Branding: Can you customize the app’s design to match your brand’s colors, fonts, and overall aesthetic?
Look & feel: Does the app builder offer a variety of themes and layouts to create a visually appealing app experience?
5. Integrations
Payment gateways: Ensure the app builder integrates with your preferred payment gateway for seamless in-app purchases.
Marketing tools: Consider if the app builder integrates with your existing marketing tools for cohesive campaigns.
How to Turn Your Shopify Store into a Powerful App with Planmyapps.com?
Now that you understand the benefits and costs let’s dive into the exciting process of turning your Shopify store into a mobile app!
Planmyapps.com takes the stress out of the process, transforming your vision into reality. They can transform your store into a fully-fledged mobile app, taking customer engagement to the next level!
Here’s how their simple 4-step process works: Here’s how their four-step approach makes it simple:
1. Step 1: Free Consultation - Brainstorm Your App Idea
It all starts with a free consultation. Connect with our app experts to discuss your vision. They’ll listen to your goals, target audience, and desired features. This open discussion helps us understand your unique needs and craft a customized app strategy.
2. Step 2: Choose Your Plan
Plan My Apps offers plan options to fit your budget and preferences
Choose a plan that best fits your requirements. Consider the features, design etc.
Have a unique vision in mind? Our experienced developers will work closely with you to create a bespoke app that perfectly reflects your brand and functionality needs.
3. Step 3: We Build, You Relax - Focus on What Matters Most
Once you’ve chosen your path, our team of skilled developers takes the reins. We handle the entire development process, from design and coding to testing and deployment. You can relax knowing your app is in expert hands, allowing you to focus on running your business.
Step 4: Launch & Grow - Unleashing Your Mobile Potential
With your app polished and ready to go, we’ll guide you through the launch process in both the iOS App Store and Google Play. [invalid URL removed] offers ongoing support to ensure your app thrives. We can assist with marketing strategies to get your app downloaded and keep your customers engaged.
Why choose Plan My Apps?
Expert Guidance: Our team holds 10+ years of experience in building apps. We will be there every step of the way, from initial consultation to ongoing support.
Seamless Process: We handle the entire development process, allowing you to focus on your business.
Customization Options: Choose from pre-built templates or create an app that reflects your unique brand.
Focus on Growth: We’ll help you launch your app and develop strategies to maximize downloads and user engagement.
Planmyapps.com doesn’t just build apps; they build success stories. With their expertise and streamlined process, you can turn your Shopify store into a powerful mobile app that increases sales, engagement, and brand loyalty.
Conclusion
The mobile commerce revolution is here, and offering a seamless mobile app experience is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Choosing the right Shopify app builder is key. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Remember, many app builders offer free trials, so take advantage of them to explore features and see which platform feels most user-friendly.
Ready to take your Shopify store mobile? Don’t wait any longer! Embrace the power of mobile commerce and watch your business thrive. With a dedicated app, you can reach new heights and build lasting customer relationships.
Ready to take your business mobile? Contact Planmyapps.com today for your free consultation!