Posted on June 23, 2023

“What’s Next?” : Future Predictions for Virtual Events and Conferences in the App Industry

We live in a world where social, personal, and corporate virtual events and conferences are essential to any industry and individual. And We, as an individual plus a business, must keep up with new technologies and market changes. 

However, event and conferencing apps have become more popular due to the ease and convenience of attendees as the application offers users real-time updates, networking opportunities, and personalized schedules. 

Many Organizations and Event management companies use these apps to streamline their operations by managing registration, payment processing, and analytics. 

However, what is next for event booking and Web app development? Let’s explore some future predictions for events and conferences in the app industry.

What Is an Event App and Why Do Your Events Need It?

Event apps serve as powerful tools in fostering connections between individuals sharing similar interests and attending the same gathering. These applications empower attendees to form meaningful relationships and strengthen their professional bonds by leveraging the data derived from audience preferences and behavior. 

In essence, merging messaging capabilities within event-focused software enables participants to capitalize on the primary purpose behind attending trade shows, conventions, or seminars – networking.

Moreover, today’s event-goers primarily rely on their mobile devices to communicate. Thus, incorporating this element into event management strategies enhances the overall experience for guests, ensuring they remain engaged throughout the occasion. 

With comprehensive data covering keynote speakers, floor plans, partners, and relevant updates, tailor-made agendas and streamlined navigation encourage higher visitor engagement rates.

What Are the Market Statistics Say About Event and Conferences App Trends?

According to Forbes, in-person events increased by 255% from the 4th quarter of 2021 to the second quarter of 2022. Still, as we move into 2023, more and more companies announce layoffs, spending freezes, and low metrics. And these are just a few of several event trends to keep your eye on. 

The event apps market will grow from US $ 1,203.89 million in 2022 to US $ 2,648.46 million by 2028; they hope to grow at a CAGR of 14.0% from 2022 to 2028.

So, Why is Event Booking App Development on The Rise?

White labeling app design further solidifies brand recognition by adapting the application’s appearance to match the event’s theme and identity. However, maintaining simplicity alongside aesthetic appeal remains crucial, given users need more time to familiarize themselves with the app’s layout. 

Ultimately, fusing the power of communication with effective event coordination unlocks new opportunities for attendees to fully immerse themselves within the shared atmosphere, cultivating long-lasting professional collaborations along the way.

Key Trends to Look for In Event Booking App Development

The goal here lies in achieving seamless usability, promoting widespread adoption, and maximizing returns on investment.

Use of AI Technology

One of the most significant future developments we can expect from events and conference apps will be increased integration with AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology. 

For instance, machine learning algorithms, events, and conference apps could predict which sessions or speakers’ attendees may like based on past interactions such as social media likes, web browsing history, or even app usage. 

This would enable event organizers to provide a much more personalized experience and increase engagement levels among attendees.

Use of Chatbots

Another prediction that may come true relates to the increasing importance of chatbots within the event planning space. 

Chatbots can play a critical role by providing instant responses to frequently asked questions during the event preparation process and answering queries about the schedule, location, transportation, etc., during the event. 

Mobile app testing is instrumental in enhancing the overall user experience by ensuring that chatbots effectively assist attendees in networking, making introductions, and arranging meetings.

Use of Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology will likely disrupt many industries, including events and conferences. Blockchains’ inherent security and transparency characteristics can help solve ticket fraud, counterfeit tickets, and scalping issues. 

Moreover, intelligent contracts integrated into blockchain platforms will allow automated ticket sales, eliminating the need for intermediaries while improving efficiency and reducing costs.

Adoption of Virtual Reality Technology 

Another aspect that is certain to gain momentum is adopting virtual reality (VR). VR has existed for several years but has yet to reach its full potential. With VR, users can get a feel for the venue before they arrive and plan accordingly. It can also bring added value to those who cannot physically attend the event by allowing them to participate virtually in a simulated environment.

Additionally, augmented reality (AR) can enhance attendees’ experience by providing additional information about presentations, exhibitions, and other activities. 

AR glasses can display details about speakers, sponsors, and vendors, making it easier for attendees to navigate the event without constantly checking their phones or printed materials. 

Furthermore, this technology allows for interactive experiences, wherein the user can access specific features by looking at them through their camera lens.

Trends of 5G & 6G Technology

As we look toward the future of event and conference mobile applications, several key technological developments promise significant changes in how these platforms function:

Fifth & sixth-generation wireless networks offer significantly faster download speeds, lower latency, and enhanced connectivity density than current 4G LTE systems. 

5G provides improved network capacity and coverage areas for events and conferences, allowing for smooth live video feeds streaming and real-time data transmission during panel discussions, product launches, and more.

Potential benefits for virtual events and conferences include extended battery life due to reduced energy consumption, increased security measures, and support for massive machine-type communications.

By embracing these cutting-edge technologies, event and conference mobile application developers can anticipate creating more feature-rich, user-friendly interfaces tailored to meet the evolving demands of their target markets. 

Greater bandwidth availability translates to expanded possibilities for integrating novel functionalities and improving existing ones, thereby driving increased stakeholder satisfaction and return on investment.

Data Privacy and Security

Data privacy and security considerations will undoubtedly shape the direction of a future event and conference mobile applications. 

Several key factors contribute to this influence:

GDPR and Similar Regulations: 

With strict regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) coming into effect, companies must comply with rules more stringent around collecting, processing, storing, and sharing user data. Implementing a Google-certified CMP is essential for ensuring compliance with GDPR and similar regulations.

Businesses must prioritize transparency, consent management, and secure data handling to avoid costly fines and reputational damage.

Privacy by Design: 

Embracing a “privacy by design” approach involves building data protection measures directly into app architecture rather than retrofitting them later. 

This includes anonymization techniques, data minimization principles, and transparent data usage policies to help ensure responsible stewardship of user information.

Cybersecurity Threats: 

Cyber threats and vulnerabilities increase as technology advancements drive innovation and growth in the industry. 

Businesses should implement robust encryption mechanisms, multi-factor authentication, threat detection/prevention, and regular security assessments to safeguard sensitive information and protect against unauthorized access.

Consumer Trust: 

Users expect their personal details and online activity to remain confidential, especially when participating in events and conferences. 

Ensuring strong data governance standards and effectively communicating those practices to end-users helps build trust and credibility among app users, encouraging continued engagement and loyalty over time.

In summary, staying vigilant about data privacy and security concerns remains essential for the long-term success of event and conference mobile application development. 

Wrap Up

The future looks bright for virtual events and conference mobile application developers. Advancements in technologies like artificial intelligence, chatbots, blockchain, virtual reality, and augmented reality hold tremendous potential for app development. 

By implementing these innovative solutions, developers can enhance attendee interaction, improve event organization, and increase revenue generation. 

So, let’s buckle up and see how these predictions shape!