Latest news with #mobileapps


Associated Press
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Associated Press
Electric Vehicle App Engagement Reaches New Highs but Brands Face Pressure to Improve Speed and Reliability, J.D. Power Finds
TROY, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 29, 2025-- As the electric vehicle (EV) market matures, companion mobile apps have become a critical part of the ownership experience. From unlocking the vehicle to remotely managing charging and climate, EV apps now serve as an extension of the vehicle itself. According to the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. OEM EV App Report SM released today, EV app usage continues to climb, though satisfaction is still held back by connectivity issues, remote command speed and inconsistent feature performance. These usability gaps contrast sharply with rising expectations, as more EV owners are expecting quick and integrated app functionality each time they drive. 'EV owners are telling J.D. Power exactly what they need: reliable performance and connectivity to interact with their vehicles,' said Violet Allmandinger, mobile apps lead at J.D. Power. 'Top-performing apps deliver fast, consistent remote controls and have desired features. However, most other apps are still closing that gap.' Following are some key findings from the 2025 report: Report Rankings Tesla (864) ranks highest overall and among premium manufacturer EV vehicle mobile apps. Mercedes-Benz (839) ranks second and My BMW (833) ranks third. MyHyundai with Bluelink ranks highest among mass market manufacturer EV mobile apps with a score of 820 (on a 1,000-point scale). Kia Access (808) ranks second and MINI (797) ranks third. See the rank chart for each segment at The U.S. OEM EV App Report, now in its fifth year, gauges EV owners' experience with their brand's mobile app. Insights are derived from surveying EV owners and an assessment of the most relevant EV mobile apps. Results are based on a standardized assessment approach relying on more than 350 best practices for vehicle apps that include more than 70 EV-specific attributes. The report includes apps from the top 28 award-eligible brands that sell EVs in the United States; 10 profiled EV brands in China; and eight profiled EV brands in Europe. Brands from China and Europe are included in this report given their expanding presence in the EV marketplace. Additionally, 1,966 EV owners in the United States were surveyed in March-April 2025 to gather insights on app usage; feature desirability; and app overall execution for the 2025 report. For more information about the U.S. OEM EV App Report, visit About J.D. Power J.D. Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. J.D. Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance. J.D. Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company's business offerings, visit The J.D. Power auto-shopping tool can be found at About J.D. Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: View source version on CONTACT: Media Relations Contacts Geno Effler, J.D. Power; West Coast; 714-621-6224;[email protected] Shane Smith; East Coast; 424-903-3665;[email protected] KEYWORD: MICHIGAN UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: AUTOMOTIVE AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING GENERAL AUTOMOTIVE EV/ELECTRIC VEHICLES APPS/APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURING SOURCE: J.D. Power Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 05/29/2025 08:00 AM/DISC: 05/29/2025 07:59 AM


Khaleej Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: 72% survey respondents prefer mobile banking apps
Driven by customers' growing appetite for seamless digital and in-person services, the UAE banking sector is undergoing a profound transformation, according to a new study. Conducted with 24 UAE banks by Arthur D. Little (ADL), the survey released on Wednesday reveals that 72 per cent of UAE respondents now prefer mobile apps as their primary banking channel, drawn to their convenience, intuitive interfaces, and personalised financial tools. This digital surge reflects a broader global trend, with the UAE's mobile banking adoption rate outpacing many developed markets, where mobile app usage averages 65 per cent, per a 2024 Statista report. Despite this digital dominance, physical branches remain vital for complex financial needs. Around 35 per cent of UAE customers still visit branches for services like loan applications and mortgages, valuing the trust and expertise of in-person interactions. High-income customers, in particular, show a nuanced preference: 70 per cent favor digital solutions for routine banking but rely on face-to-face advisory for high-value decisions. Additionally, 43 per cent of respondents regularly use self-service kiosks for tasks like cash withdrawals and account inquiries, indicating a demand for hybrid solutions that blend automation with human touch. Mobile wallet adoption is also on the rise, especially among younger and tech-savvy middle-income groups. The UAE's mobile payment market is projected to grow by 8.2 per cent annually through 2030, driven by innovations like contactless payments and digital remittances, according to a 2025 PwC report. This trend underscores the need for banks to enhance digital self-service options, such as advanced kiosks for loan processing and card issuance, alongside robust mobile wallet functionalities. Martin Rauchenwald, partner and global head of financial services at ADL, said by integrating advanced digital platforms with high-quality in-branch advisory, banks can build trust and loyalty. Seamless omnichannel strategies are key to meeting evolving customer expectations.' Rezwan Shafique, principal at ADL Middle East, added that investments in AI-powered personalization and digital literacy programs are critical to bridging the digital divide and enhancing user experiences across mobile apps, online portals, and branches. The survey highlights the growing demand for 'phygital' banking — merging digital efficiency with personalized human interactions. UAE banks are urged to adopt hybrid models, leveraging AI-driven wealth management tools and optimised remittance platforms while maintaining trusted in-branch consultations. According to banking industry experts, with the UAE's financial sector contributing 14.2 per cent to the national GDP in 2024, per the UAE Central Bank, these strategies are essential for banks to stay competitive.


Globe and Mail
23-05-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Techugo Blends Global Innovation with Local Expertise to Transform App Development
Dear tech entrepreneurs and savvy small businesses, it is understandable that finding the right app developer can feel like choosing a train line without a map. This is why Techugo, which bills itself as a CMMI Level 3 certified company, has emerged as a one-stop platform for app innovation that's quietly built a global footprint. Founded in 2015, this India-headquartered team now stretches from Virginia to Vancouver, Dubai, and London, bringing Fortune 500 startups around the world. The company boasts hundreds of delivered projects, including 1,400+ mobile apps and partnerships with large firms, from Google to Airtel. A World of Services Under One Roof When it comes to services, Techugo's menu is impressively long. They cover all flavors of app development. On top of that, they handle the design and user experience end (UI/UX) and even full enterprise mobility solutions. Their expertise spills into cutting-edge domains like IOT, AI/ML, QA & Testing, AR/VR, Blockchain development and chatbots. In practical terms, this means a local startup could get a glossy iPhone app with AI integration, a backend dashboard for management, and even blockchain-based security, all from one development team. Here are some of their core tech services to take a glance at: Techugo follows rigorous, industry-standard processes. Put simply, it's turned 'just making apps' into an engineering discipline. This broad skillset lets Techugo handle projects in a dozen industries without batting an eye. Serving Startups to Titans Across Industries Techugo's portfolio reads like a tech trade show: bitty startups on one end, Global 2000 behemoths on the other. In just a few years, they've collaborated with Fortune 500 and Global 2000 companies as well as fast-growing startups. Their clients include big names, including telecom giants like Airtel, education unicorns like BYJUs, and buzzy new ventures with apps for DJs and TV celebs. The company has been a prominent tech partner to 22+ government projects. In other words, they tailor their 'app DNA' to each client, whether it's a veteran industry or a brand-new category. Industries served span the map. Techugo lists expertise in everything from healthcare and fintech to retail/e-commerce, travel and hospitality, education (e-learning), and on-demand services. Some highlights: they've built marketplace app like lal10, foreign currency exchange like BookMyForex, social media app like One Quesh, e-commerce platform like Swadeshi and healthcare like Theocare. Whether simplifying dairy supply chains in India or powering a celebrity-fan engagement app, Techugo adapts to the sector. Smarter Apps, Powered by AI These days, it's not just about building an app. Nah! It's about building one that thinks. That's where Techugo's AI and machine learning capabilities come in. They're not just sprinkling buzzwords but baking intelligence directly into their apps. Whether it's a chatbot that mimics human conversation, an AI-powered recommendation engine, or predictive analytics for user behavior, Techugo knows how to make apps that adapt, learn, and evolve. Their in-house AI team develops custom algorithms that power features like: Smart search and voice recognition Artificial Intelligence-based personalization and content suggestions Natural language processing (NLP) for chat interfaces and virtual assistants Predictive analytics for everything from retail trends to patient care Computer vision for apps that 'see' (think face recognition or smart scanning) Fraud detection algorithms for fintech and payment apps Speech-to-text and voice assistants that feel conversational, not clunky Dynamic pricing models for e-commerce and logistics platforms Sentiment analysis for social platforms and customer feedback tools AI-driven automation for repetitive tasks and workflows Image and video recognition for retail, security, and content moderation Behavioral analytics to better understand user engagement and retention Generative AI for content creation, design, and problem-solving A Trove of Accolades and Achievements Techugo's bragging rights aren't empty marketing talk. Their apps have literally made headlines and mountain-sized milestones. For instance, Techugo reports that its apps have helped clients raise about $869 million in funding in a single year, including $809M from major investors and startup platforms. Techugo carries an effective app development and support proven by its awards page: Bett 2020 winner (education tech), Entrepreneur X Factor 2021 winner, and featured spots on Forbes, Fortune India, Entrepreneur, etc.. Techugo-backed products have hit '1M+ downloads in 6 months' and earned 4.7-star ratings in app stores. In short, the firm has racked up industry kudos and real-world results: 400% growth for client businesses has been quoted in profiles. For a Washington City Paper reader, the takeaway is clear: these aren't fly-by-night code monkeys. The mobile app development company in USA has a credentialed crew that startups, enterprises, and even celebrity clients trust to deliver polished, award-winning apps. Notable Projects and Partners What does Techugo actually build? Their portfolio is impressively diverse. Some spotlight projects include the The key is that each success feeds Techugo's credibility, whether a big startup's glowing testimonial or an app store hit demonstrates what they can do. And this means that firms from mom-and-pop shops to government contractors can partner with a team with proven achievements. They take pride in being your first choice when developing mobile apps! And why not, since they have: A range of Silicon Valley investors (Sequoia, Matrix Partners, Y Combinator) to corporate giants (Microsoft, Google, Goldman Sachs) to back their products. Guinness World Record, Bett Award, Entrepreneur X, Forbes/Fortune features, and more add layers of trust to Techugo's name. Offices spanning Asia, North America, and the Middle East, Techugo handles apps destined for any market. Hear the Voices from Happy Clients "Techugo delivered high quality and accountability through effective project management & exceptional communication." — Gavin Lund, Sterkla "They never left me hanging with the work. Techugo develops through its professional approach. They lead a communicative process, keeping everyone involved updated with the project." — Vicky Knowler, Champagne Photography Studio Inc "I love their creativity; their designs are really fresh and modern. Right from the onboarding process to the managerial skills, I am highly impressed. I talk to them these days, even more than my family members, as they are not just my tech partners but have become a part of my family now." — Xenia Ghali, Mynt "Techugo communicated clearly and consistently about their expectations, progress, and vision throughout the project." — Wilhelm Myrer, Twoway Energy Ventures "Because they have so many skill sets, we get past it quickly when we hit a roadblock. They have a lot of people in-house. If the dedicated resource on my project can't do something, they have a backup. They have people skilled in different techs." — Karan Malik, SCC Online "They really helped me gain confidence by working with them. Organisation, transparency, and quality assurance set Techugo apart from other providers." — Raghunandan Malik, Eastern Book Company "We're loving the work. Your team is simply amazing. We have a long way to go, phase 1 is just the beginning." — Kenneth Butler, Dj Connect "I think they're awesome. I've talked to them at 2 a.m. or later. If I need them, I can send an email and get a response within an hour. If they can't answer my question right away, they'll let me know that they're working on an answer. Their prompt response to my questions and concerns is what distinguishes them from others." — Tajudeen Raji, Reachout Wellness Why D.C. Biz Should Take Notice At first hearing, Techugo might sound like 'just another offshore app shop.' But their track record suggests that they blend global scale with flexible service. For Washingtonians, that means if your next big idea needs an app, whether a fast launch or enterprise-grade rollout, you have a credible partner ready to execute. Techugo's story shows that even local firms can plug into international tech talent without losing hometown support. So, imagine: you're a Beltway startup or a Rockville clinic wanting a patient portal or a retailer in Dupont Circle seeking a slick shopping app! Techugo, as an eCommerce app development company, has handled retail projects that have already gone live elsewhere. The proof is in their charismatic portfolio. They bring the buzzwords (AI, blockchain, wearables, etc.) and actual results. Closing Up! Techugo is worth a closer look as a tech partner in your business! As the app development company puts it, they 'create mobile apps for people with an extraordinary vision,' which just might be DC's entrepreneurs and innovators. And if you're local, you can ping their U.S. office to get started. If you are someone looking for a result-driven top-tier app development house to scale your business, you wouldn't miss scheduling a free call with Techugo, the #1 on demand app development company, that promises success. Get in touch with their experts now and don't miss the opportunity to build something impressive! Media Contact Company Name: Techugo Contact Person: Ankit Singh Email: Send Email Address: 22375 Broderick Dr, Suite 225 City: Dulles State: VA 20166 Country: United States Website:


Android Authority
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Android Authority
Android Automotive is expanding its app catalog for cars with the largest displays
Damien Wilde / Android Authority TL;DR Google is working on additional mobile app compatibility for large screens in Android Automotive. There's a new aspect ratio menu that allows you to switch between the default and full screen. This compatibility will first arrive on the Volvo EX90. It has been an eventful couple of days for Android Auto and Automotive announcements. On the Android Automotive side, we learned this week that Volvo's cars will be the first vehicles with Google built-in to get Gemini integration. While that has been the main topic of discussion, you have missed this other announcement about large screens and app compatibility. During a Google I/O session, the company shared that it is working with OEMs to add additional mobile app compatibility for large screens. Along with that, Google is aiming to expand its catalog of car-ready, large-screen optimized mobile apps into the thousands. This will start on cars with Google built-in running Android 14. In the screenshot above, you can also see a new aspect ratio menu that will let you switch between the app's default size and full screen. Android on your phone received a similar aspect ratio menu with Android 14 QPR1. When Volvo announced that its cars would be the first to install Gemini, it also revealed that Google would use its vehicles for developing new features and updates. This means Volvo vehicles have first dibs on the latest Android features and performance enhancements. As such, it comes as no surprise that Google says that the Volvo EX90 will be the first car to have access to this expanded collection of large-screen compatible apps. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.


TechCrunch
20-05-2025
- Business
- TechCrunch
Stitch is Google's AI-powered tool to help design apps
At the Google I/O 2025 developer conference, Google launched Stitch, an AI-powered tool to help design web and mobile app front ends by generating the necessary UI elements and code. Stitch can be prompted to create app UIs with a few words or even an image, providing HTML and CSS markup for the designs it generates. Users can choose between Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro and Gemini 2.5 Flash AI models to power Stitch's code and interface ideation. Stitch lets users choose between Gemini 2.5 Flash and Gemini 2.5 Pro models Image Credits:Jagmeet Singh / TechCrunch Stitch arrives as so-called vibe coding — programming using code-generating AI models — continues to grow in popularity. There's a number of large tech startups going after the burgeoning market, including Cursor maker Anysphere, Cognition, and Windsurf. Just last week, OpenAI launched a new assistive coding service called Codex. And yesterday during its Build 2025 kickoff, Microsoft rolled out a series of updates to its GitHub Copilot coding assistant. Stitch is a bit more limited in what it can do compared to some other vibe coding products, but there's a fair amount of customization options. The tool supports directly exporting to Figma and can expose code so that it can be refined and worked on in an IDE. Stitch also lets users fine-tune any of the app design elements it generates. In a demo with TechCrunch, Google product manager Kathy Korevec showed two projects created using Stitch: a responsive mobile UI design for an app for bookworms and a web dashboard for beekeeping. '[Stitch is] where you can come and get your initial iteration done, and then you can keep going from there,' said Korevec. 'What we want to do is make it super, super easy and approachable for people to do that next level of design thinking or that next level of software building for them.' Soon after I/O, Google plans to add a feature that'll allow users to make changes in their UI designs by taking screenshots of the object they want to tweak and annotating it with the modifications they want, Korevec said. She added that while Stitch is reasonably powerful, it isn't meant to be a full-fledged design platform like Figma or Adobe XD. Techcrunch event Join us at TechCrunch Sessions: AI Secure your spot for our leading AI industry event with speakers from OpenAI, Anthropic, and Cohere. For a limited time, tickets are just $292 for an entire day of expert talks, workshops, and potent networking. Exhibit at TechCrunch Sessions: AI Secure your spot at TC Sessions: AI and show 1,200+ decision-makers what you've built — without the big spend. Available through May 9 or while tables last. Berkeley, CA | REGISTER NOW Stitch lacks the elements that could've made it a full-fledged design platform Image Credits:Jagmeet Singh / TechCrunch Alongside Stitch, Google has expanded access to Jules, its AI agent aimed at helping developers fix bugs in their code. Now in public beta, the tool helps developers understand complex code, create pull requests on GitHub, and handle certain backlog items and programming tasks. In a separate demo, Korevec showed Jules upgrading a website running the deprecated version 16 to 22. Jules cloned the site's codebase in a clean virtual machine and shared a 'plan' for the upgrade, which Korevec was then prompted to approve. Once the upgrade was completed, Korevec asked Jules to verify that the website still worked correctly — which Jules did. Jules currently uses Gemini 2.5 Pro, but Korevec told TechCrunch that users will be able to switch between different models in the future.