According to the App Annie's State of Mobile report, in 2018 there were over 194 billion app downloads. The number is more than impressive and provides a clear indication that Internet users everywhere make full use of their mobile devices.

But not all apps make it in the world of real-life users. Some live a short-timed period of fame, some get to be used for years on end, while others just wither and die without having any impact.

So why does this happen? What decides if an app will be a success or a total and utter failure? While there is a series of factors that can make and break an app's popularity, it all starts with the UI/UX combination.

What are UX & UI?

If you're not a developer, it's normal to be confused about these two terms. Even more, some believe that UI and UX are the same thing, and they wouldn't be entirely wrong. While they are not the same, the two terms intertwine and are necessary to create a successful app.

But first, let's have a look at what they represent and why most top design firms will hire separate specialists for UI and UX:

• UI comes from User Interface and represents everything a user sees in an app (the graphical layout). It consists of all the visual elements that make the interface such as buttons, menus, backgrounds, text boxes, and more.

• UX comes for User Experience and is a bit more abstract as it has to do with the way the user feels when they interact with the app. Do they understand how to navigate it or what it does in the first few seconds they open it or do they feel confused? Also, are there any bugs or the app is sluggish? All these are part of the user experience when they interact with the interface, which is why it's easy to confuse the two.

Basically, UX designers transform the work of UI designers into an enjoyable experience for the final user. Their job is to remove clutter, make sure the app's navigation flows, and that there aren't any hurdles on the road.

The Importance of UI & UX in App Design

Most large UI/UX design agencies in San Francisco and NYC will only work with the best designers in their respective fields. This way, they can ensure that there is perfect harmony between UI and UX without disturbing the general flow.

Besides the fact that an app needs to capture the attention of users (which is already short) in the first few seconds, it also must win their confidence. For this, the way an app looks and the way it behaves are crucial elements.

Lastly, the UI/UX combination is crucial in establishing brand recognition (especially for small businesses and start-ups), the business's online reputation, and even decides the number of high-quality leads the app is going to be capable of bringing.

So yes, UI and UX are critical and you should not ignore their importance in the success of your business!