Apps Vs USSD. What’s your take?

In 2021, the GSMA estimated that Uganda had a smartphone adoption of 16%, markedly lower than the 30% average for Sub-Saharan Africa. This is clear that USSDs are still here for a while.
Some of the advantages of USSDs include;
• No need for an Internet connection and it can also be used where there is no Internet access.
• No need to install any software on the device.
• It can be used on any phone.
• No need to install any software on the device.

However, eMarketer a subscription-based market research company that provides insights and trends related to digital marketing, media, and commerce predicted that adult smartphone users will spend about 4 hours per day using mobile internet between 2018-2022, and 88% of that time will be spent in mobile apps. This speaks to the importance of companies not only optimizing their websites for mobile, but creating custom, responsive apps and finding smartphone users where they are.

An app, which is short for “application,” is a type of software that can be installed and run on a computer, tablet, smartphone or other electronic devices. With the Apps you don’t need to memorize several USSDs codes for different services.

A good mobile app has the following benefits
• A Personalized Marketing and Sales Avenue
• Simplifies customer service.
• Improved Loyalty and Customer Experience
• Collection of all kinds of data
Apps could be the future but only if smartphones are made affordable for everyone and that is something that telecoms need to look into.

With all the facts above, it is clear that Apps and USSDs have to co-exist for a while especially in Africa and Uganda.