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6 Actionable Ways to Reduce Mobile App Uninstall Rate

There is no denying that today’s saturated app marketplace has become problematic for both developers and users.

No wonder only a few apps succeed and the rest either suffer from a low number of active users or high uninstall rates.

Having a high uninstall rate indicates discontent from users. So it is essential to know why users have uninstalled your app in the first place. 

Here are a few helpful ways how you can significantly reduce your app’s uninstallation rate:

Optimize the speed of your app

The performance of your app does matter. So, if your app takes more than three seconds to load, it is highly likely that users will abandon your app and then chose a much quicker alternative. 

You can improve your app’s performance by:

  • Monitoring essential drop-off points and applying corrective actions.
  • Testing your app’s features, loading time, etc. before launching the app entirely.
  • Decreasing distractions such as pop-ups, autoplay videos, in-app ads, and so on.
  • Keeping track of user engagement to track your app’s performance.

Use push notifications wisely 

A lot of people could not resist checking their phones every time a notification comes in. And they will be quite disappointed if it is not something that they care about.

Push notifications might come across as too spammy and might annoy your customers. 

Apps regularly use notifications when giving out updates or asking for a review. But the important thing here is not being too pushy, or else your app might get uninstalled. 

Provide a good user interface

According to Kenneth Sytian of Sytian Mobile App Developer Philippines, a lot of users prefer a user-friendly interface. This includes having a simple design and functional features.

An app with complicated features will have higher uninstallation rates. Thus, app developers should pay close attention to the app’s UX/UI.

Here are some ways how you can optimize your app’s user experience and interface:

  • Do A/B testing
  • Ensure that all your app’s fonts, colors, and contrast are quite pleasing to the eye.
  • Your app’s UI should be uniform to identify the usage pattern throughout the app quickly.

Offer Value to Uninstallers/Dormant Users

Users need to have a compelling value proposition to re-install your app. And the best way you can capture their interest is to offer them exclusive content and discount offers. 

According to a survey by Think With Google, 30% of users said that they receive prompts from their uninstalled apps. The prompt can range from a simple reminder to a discount coupon.

Meanwhile, 26% of the respondents say that receiving exclusive content can do the trick. 

Regardless, the idea is to encourage users to re-download or update your app. That way, you can boost your number of active app users. 

Focus on the Feedback

Your app’s feedback and rating will help scale your app’s success. When users are content with your app, then they will rate it positively instead of leaving negative reviews

There are several ways you can collect that feedback. It can be through social media platforms like Facebook, the review section on the app store, email feedback, and so on. 

You can also reach out to the user directly to gather their insights on your app and prevent negative reviews.

Just be careful with your “Rate the App” prompts, though. Many users do not like to be interrupted, especially if it is over something that they think is unimportant. So use these prompts sparingly. 

Make it simple

When a user cannot understand how the app works, it tends to lose its shine. One typical example is having your user move from one feature to another.

For example, some apps need user authentication before being installed.

When you ask a user to fill in two or three fields, it could still be bearable on their part. But if you ask for more than that, then it is already too much, causing them to uninstall your app. 

The user will also avoid downloading your app in the future as well.

Offer Proactive Support

Unhappy users tend to uninstall an app after an unpleasant experience. It is also harder to keep your customers once they have already switched to your competitors. 

That’s why you must provide them with proactive support before they decide to abandon your app completely.

  • Offer the right channels that users can reach out to convey their concerns. These should also be addressed as quickly as possible.
  • Offer in-app support or help feature that offers seamless user experience.
  • Use the live chat to offer instant support to users.

Conclusion

Here’s the thing: Just because a user uninstalled your app does not mean you can salvage it. Yet, the process can be costly.

Thus, it is imperative to be proactive.

The tips listed above provide you with various proactive ways to prevent users from uninstalling your app. Take one from the list and apply it on your app. See how many uninstall you can save. Good luck!