Statistics show that nearly two-thirds of Americans own a smartphone. These devices are used for more than just placing calls. Apps give phone users the opportunity to engage in a number of activities- all from their handheld device. Developing an app can be a great way to generate profit, but you need to ensure that the app you create is something that will appeal to consumers.

Here are three tips that you can use to improve your mobile phone app development skills in order to become more profitable in the future.

1. Design with the platform in mind.

When consumers invest in the purchase of a mobile phone app, they want an app that has an aesthetically appealing interface. It's important to recognize that the way your app appears on a screen will vary from one mobile technology platform to another.

Instead of just focusing on the generation of a single app, you should create several different versions of the app that are designed to integrate seamless into the various platforms being utilized by smartphone users today.

2. Find a unique niche.

With so many mobile phone apps available on wireless marketplaces today, it can be challenging to compete for consumer dollars. If you want to become a more profitable developer, you need to find a unique niche. Identifying unique needs that consumers have can be a great place to start when brainstorming ideas for your new app.

It can also be helpful to peruse the wireless marketplaces regularly to identify existing apps that are not meeting user's expectations. You can use these underwhelming apps as a starting point to create a modified version that addresses consumer complaints.

3. Ensure your design is user-friendly.

Consumers don't want to be hassled with figured out how an app works. Most mobile technology platforms operate within a similar set of guidelines. Consumers have come to expect that these guidelines will be followed, and can become angry when developers disregard these guidelines.

To ensure that your mobile phone app is as profitable as possible, make sure the interface is user-friendly. Include a menu button to help consumers navigate within the app, and clearly label all task buttons to facilitate proper use.

Designing a successful mobile phone app doesn't have to be impossible. Take the time to design with your intended platform in mind, find a unique niche for your app, and ensure that your design is user-friendly if you want to create an app that will sell.