I am among many online business owners who realized that mobile users were the majority traffic of my little Shopify store. However, even with a responsive theme, conversions on mobile were lower. Users prefer the seamless experience of a dedicated Android app: instant access, push alerts, and more engagement.
Since I couldn't afford to hire a full-time developer, I opted to develop an Android app for my Shopify store. It was surprisingly simpler than I had anticipated.
In this post, I cover how I converted my Shopify store into a mobile application, which resources I used, and what I learned on the way.
Why I decided to build an Android app for my Shopify store
Shopify makes it easy to get an online store up and running, but most stores struggle with mobile engagement. Even though more than 70% of online purchases are made on smartphones, most Shopify stores still use only mobile-responsive website designs.
Here's why I decided to create an Android app for my store:
- I wanted a branded mobile application in order to increase retention and loyalty.
- I needed push notifications to re-engage my clients with discounts.
- I wanted a better checkout process for mobile users and faster loading times.
My goal was to increase conversions from my current smartphone audience.
At that time, I started searching for no-code solutions and Shopify to Android app conversion options.
Tools I used to convert my Shopify store
A number of no-code Shopify mobile app builders will help non-developers build Android and iOS apps easily. Among the well-known ones are:
- Shopney: Shopney is a drag-and-drop app builder with live previews.
- Vajro: Excellent for quick setup, analytics, and push notifications.
- Plobal Apps: It provides sophisticated integrations and functionalities.
- MobiLoud: With MobiLoud, you can have more control and branding choices.
I chose Shopney for my project because it synced products automatically, didn't require scripting, and worked straight with Shopify.
However, hiring expert Android developers who can customize the app to your company's needs is ideal if you wish to incorporate high-end features like payment gateways, custom APIs, or a unique user interface.
Step-by-Step: How I Built the Android App
Below is the step-by-step process that I followed to convert my Shopify store into an Android app:
Step 1: Setting up a Shopify App Builder
I installed Shopney from the Shopify App Store. It easily integrates with my current store.
Step 2: Sync Store Data
The builder app instantly synchronized all my items, categories, and inventory, saving hours in manual setup.
Step 3: Customize Design and Branding
I've changed the colors, logo, and theme to be those of my Shopify store. This was quick and easy thanks to the drag-and-drop interface of the app builder.
Step 4: Add Key Features
I enabled such features as push notifications, in-app messaging, and cart reminders, which are essential in driving engagement and increasing cart abandonment rates.
Step 5: Test and Optimize
Before publishing, I ensured that the checkout process, navigation, and user interface performance were tested to guarantee a seamless user experience.
Step 6: Publish on Google Play
I finally created the Android APK and published it using the Google Play Console. In less than 48 hours, my Shopify store has a fully functional Android app on the Play Store.
The Results After Launch
The results were phenomenal:
- +40% of returning visitors have used push notifications.
- greater checkout conversions compared to online users on mobile devices.
- The customers loved the customized app, adding to the company's credibility.
I also used app analytics to monitor user journeys in order to optimize the layout and highlight best-selling items.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some tips from my experience if you want to create your own Shopify Android app:
- Don't complicate the user interface.
- Keep navigation relatively simple and uncluttered. Before launching your website, test each payment gateway.
- Images should be optimized for faster mobile loading.
- Update frequently.Users revisit when there is something new.
What I Learned
The aim when developing the Shopify Android application is to revolutionize the whole purchasing experience, not just to make your store mobile-friendly.
I found that no-code Shopify app builders are perfect for novices and quick launches but often have significant drawbacks when considering the issues of long-term scalability, customisation, and connections.
Custom Android app development offers far greater options for stores looking to expand and differentiate themselves. A well-designed app will give you full control over your marketing, personalization, and customer interaction methods, besides increasing user retention and brand memory.
Final Thoughts
It was a satisfying job turning my Shopify store into an Android app, increasing customer engagement and sales. Going mobile is now a must, regardless of whether you're a lone proprietor or running an expanding eCommerce company.
If you are planning to follow suit, but prefer professional help, then consider creating a distinctive, high-performance app with the help of Lucent Innovation's brilliant Android app developers-one that aligns with the vision for your brand and that will grow with your company.
Have you ever tried to create an app from your Shopify store? I'd love to hear about your experiences, so let me know by asking questions or sharing your thoughts here!
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