Further thoughts on what defines Next Gen mobile apps

When I speak of mobile devices, besides smartphones I include tablets such as the iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, and Nook (barnes & noble). Next generation mobile apps must be:

1. Mobile first - they take advantage of the unique properties of mobile devices and cannot be fully replicated with a personal computer based service

2. Accomplish tasks on behalf of person or otherwise make life easier

3. Take advantage of more than one hardware feature on device (e.g., camera, gps, accelerometer, microphone)

4. Are not single purpose apps

5. Context aware

Why is all this important? Because of the massive potential for disruption of existing businesses that DON'T take advantage of the unique capabilities of mobile. One of many examples is social networking (yes the mighty Facebook). Due to the legacy of its origins on wired internet computers, Facebook's biggest competitive threats come from services that leverage the contextual information and capabilities unique to mobile devices.

What are Next Gen Android Apps?

We'll define and then identify and review next gen Android apps. One part of the definition of Next Gen Android apps is that they must be Mobile Device first. Too many apps in round 1 of mobile apps are simply extensions of a Personal Computer based web service.

Much more to come on this topic.