Trends · Ben Buzz · Jan 19, 2026

Growth in eCommerce Apps Driven by Increased Consumer Spending and Marketing Investment

In 2023, eCommerce app growth surged due to a 60% increase in non-organic iOS installs and a 43% rise in iOS ad spending, contrasting with an 18% decrease in Android ad spend. The Chinese market dominated iOS user acquisition, comprising 85% of the spend, while AI and personalized content drove consumer engagement and loya… This trend is further supported by a 60% surge in iOS net operating income in Q4 2023.

The eCommerce sector continues to witness substantial growth driven by increased consumer spending and significant marketing investments. This surge is evident across various platforms and consumer behaviors, with notable trends in app installs, user acquisition, and spending habits. This article delves into the specifics of these developments and their implications for the industry.

Consumer Conversion and Loyalty

One of the key drivers of eCommerce growth is the conversion of consumers during peak seasons. Statistics show that one in ten consumers make purchases during these periods, highlighting the importance of strategic marketing during high-traffic times. Moreover, once consumers make their first purchase, 60% of them tend to become loyal customers, indicating a strong return on initial marketing investments.

Conversion rates post-installation are also impressive, with 40% of users converting on the first day and 75% within the first week. These figures underscore the effectiveness of engaging user experiences and the importance of a seamless purchasing process.

Trends in App Installs and Spending

Non-organic installs on iOS platforms have seen a 60% increase, demonstrating the impact of targeted advertising and marketing strategies. The year-over-year hike in non-organic app installs is 60%, with iOS ad spend increasing by 43% in 2023. This is contrasted by an 18% decrease in ad spend on Android devices, indicating a shift in platform preference among marketers.

In terms of in-app spending, there was a 15% increase year-over-year in the fourth quarter of 2023, with iOS users experiencing a 21% uplift in spending, and Android users showing a 9% increase. This trend is further supported by a 60% surge in iOS net operating income in Q4 2023.

Global and Regional Market Dynamics

Globally, total app ad spend reached $6.6 billion in 2023, with iOS platforms accounting for $2.9 billion of this expenditure. Remarkably, 85% of iOS user acquisition spend was attributed to China-based apps, indicating the significant influence of the Chinese market on global eCommerce dynamics. In Europe, iOS user acquisition saw a 170% year-over-year increase in Germany and more than doubled in France, emphasizing the importance of regionally tailored strategies.

The emphasis on personalized content experiences continues to evolve, with trends such as cookieless personalization gaining traction due to browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari blocking third-party cookies by default. AI and machine learning are enhancing product recommendations, with better product discovery remaining a key trend. Dynamic adjustments in personalized experiences are maximizing conversions and enhancing customer engagement.

Technological and Consumer Behavior Innovations

AI-powered shopping apps are boosting engagement and discovery, with AI algorithms improving website chat and search functions, thereby reducing customer search time and enhancing on-site product discovery capabilities. The use of long-form video for product details and regular live selling experiences are recommended strategies for increasing consumer engagement.

Trust and safety continue to shape purchasing decisions, with concerns over fraud and data breaches prompting companies to evolve and maintain consumer confidence. Mobile wallets are gaining ground in retail, with unified platforms defining the future of eCommerce. AI-powered conversations are replacing traditional search methods, offering consumers a more personalized shopping experience.

As the eCommerce landscape continues to evolve, companies must prioritize consumer trust, personalization, and strategic marketing investments to stay competitive. The ongoing advancements in technology and shifts in consumer behavior present both opportunities and challenges for the industry, underscoring the need for continuous adaptation and innovation.