It's no secret that there are millions of apps on the market right now. Even with the expansive options that users have, mobile app utilization is surprisingly low. Instead, users are navigating over to more socially-based options and opting to converse with a representatitve versus browsing to find the answer to their needs.
Humans crave simplicity. Whether it be an easy drive into work or having an assistant write down your thoughts, anything that makes someone's life easier is in high demand. Saving time, money, and avoiding stress is in everyone's best interests. And this is exactly why chatbots are poised to overtake the mobile app in the near future.
What's So Special About Chatbots?
Think to yourself. Which would you rather do: grab your phone, pull up a weather app, let it locate your position (or select a location) and load up today's forecast, or pipe up and ask your Amazon Echo what the weather would be like today? Both devices are capable of giving you the exact same response, but nine times out of then you'd choose the latter option. Why? Because it's simply easier.
Chatbots are are in the same vein. Their sole purpose is to simplify, to save time, and to avoid wasted resources.
Apps We Don't Need Anymore
Once chatbots take over, there are a plethora of apps that will quickly become obsolete. Some examples being:
- Static entity apps that do not update, such as restaurant menus
- Task performing apps including booking flights, ordering food for delivery, et cetera
- Location-based inquiries, "Where's the best dentist in Boise, Idaho?"
- News aggregators
- Survey apps/feedback related apps
Rather than spend the time to locate the information that you desire, it can be much more simple to pop open a message and request that very same information.
People are now spending more time in messaging apps than in social media and that is a huge turning point. Messaging apps are the platforms of the future and bots will be how their users access all sorts of services.”
Apps That Will Stay Put
While chatbots are able to handle a good portion of requests that a user will want, there are unfortunately some limitations to the platform. Apps that require complex tasks or utilize device features (such as the camera or GPS) are still a ways away from getting the chatbot treatment.
Intricate workflow-based apps that utilize dynamic inputs coming from various sources will also stick around. For example, an internal paperwork processing app wouldn't fair too well if you weren't able to store and manage documents, images, pay sheets, et cetera. Instagram probably wouldn't be the same without an app, either.
Artificial intelligence is something that is ever-improving and has no end in sight. We have faith that one day chatbots will be far more than just bots; they will be a go-to source for everything.
Are you interested in a chatbot for your company? Click here to learn more about snowBOT, V-Soft's chatbot for the ServiceNow® platform.
