App Store Facilitated $1.1 Trillion In Developer Billings, Sales In 2022: Study
A recent independent study conducted by economists from Analysis Group has revealed that Apple's App Store ecosystem played a significant role in generating a staggering USD 1.1 trillion in developer billings and sales in 2022. The study underscores the App Store's track record of strong and resilient growth, creating immense opportunities for developers worldwide.
The analysis indicated that over 90 percent of the billings and sales on the App Store went directly to developers and businesses, without any commission paid to Apple.
The economists from Analysis Group further estimate that the USD 1.1 trillion figure includes USD 910 billion generated from the sale of physical goods and services, USD 109 billion from in-app advertising, and USD 104 billion from digital goods and services. This diversified revenue stream highlighted the multiple monetisation avenues available to developers, enabling them to build prosperous businesses within the App Store ecosystem.
The study delved into the factors that drove the growth of the App Store ecosystem. Notably, the easing of restrictions in various regions led to a significant rebound in demand for app categories like travel and ride-hailing. Sales made on iOS travel apps experienced an impressive 84 per cent increase in 2022, while ride-hailing apps witnessed a substantial 45 per cent surge. Furthermore, the food and grocery app categories emerged as some of the fastest-growing segments. Since 2019, iOS app-based food delivery and pickup sales more than doubled, while grocery sales more than tripled.
Enterprise apps also gained prominence, with significant adoption by companies worldwide. In 2022, these apps represented one of the fastest-growing categories for digital goods and services. The app-based entertainment category experienced remarkable growth, driven by emerging trends such as the creator economy.
The App Store's global reach and accessibility have played a vital role in its success. With support for more than 195 local payment methods and 44 currencies across 175 storefronts, developers can engage users from around the world. In 2022, more than half of the app downloads occurred in storefronts outside developers' home countries, underscoring the App Store's ability to transcend borders.
The study also revealed that the App Store continues to attract a vast user base, with over 650 million average weekly visitors worldwide in 2022. Users downloaded and redownloaded apps more than 747 million and 1.5 billion times per week, respectively, reflecting the enduring popularity of the platform.
