The user base for mobile apps is growing 15 times faster than for the ‘stationary internet’, and will soon overtake it.

According to research2guidance, the global app user base has seen a compound annual growth rate of 251 per cent over the past five years. And although the stationary internet user base is still twice the size, its 16 per cent CAGR will soon be eclipsed by apps.

The growth has been driven by the wide range of apps and their ability to provide intelligence and context to smart devices, making them into everyday tools.

In time, all mobile subscribers will possess devices that support apps as the mobile industry launches cheaper devices with monthly subscription plans that give ARPU of around $5.

Another consequence of the huge growth in the app user base will be the need for businesses to mobilise their IT and train their developers in mobile programming and design.

Mobile will become a key strategic channel for every business, meaning the challenges of creating, developing and maintaining numerous mobile services for different platforms and user groups must be better addressed.

An increase in mergers and acquisitions is also likely, according to research2guidance, as companies buy apps and mobile services to keep pace with market development. This will see an increasing role for Apple’s App Transfer initiative and companies like Apptopia.