Increasing your eCommerce sales isn't rocket science—it's all about engaging customers on the right channels.
And considering how the human-behaviour is moving, that channel is increasingly mobile. With the average person spending over 4 hours a day on their smartphone, having a strong mobile presence is no longer optional—it's essential.
This is where having your own eCommerce app comes in, and Shopify mobile app builders make it easier than ever.
These tools allow you to create a custom mobile app for your Shopify store, giving your customers a seamless shopping experience right at their fingertips.
In this blog, we'll dive into the key features you should look for in a Shopify mobile app builder and provide you with a curated list of the 12 best options available in 2024.
Whether you're a small business owner or a large enterprise, you'll find valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive right in!
What is a Shopify mobile app builder?
A Shopify Mobile App Builder is a tool that allows Shopify store owners to create custom mobile apps for their eCommerce businesses without extensive coding knowledge.
These Shopify apps comes with multiple like intuitive drag-and-drop editor, pre-built templates, and more — which we’ll discuss in the next section.
Mobile app builders for Shopify allow merchants to extend their online presence beyond websites, providing customers with a convenient, native app shopping experience. These eCommerce mobile apps typically offer every feature that your website has, and some more advanced ones, like behavioural data.
7 Features to look for in a Shopify mobile app builder
Now that we know what a Shopify mobile app builder is — let’s look at some of the features that a mobile builder for Shopify must have to ensure you get the desired look and feel to your app:
1. No-code drag-and-drop builder
Let's face it, not everyone's a tech wizard. A good mobile app builder for Shopify should offer a user-friendly interface that allows you to design your app without writing a single line of code. Look for platforms with intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, making it easy to add elements, rearrange layouts, and customize your app's look and feel.
2. Low effort maintenance
Your app is only a channel to help improve your eCommerce business performance, it’s not your whole business. If a lot of effort and time is going into app maintenance — when will you make those important business decisions?
Your app should be easy to keep up to date. So opt for a builder that offers automatic updates and syncs with your Shopify store in real time. This way, when you make changes to your products or inventory on Shopify, they're reflected in your app without you lifting a finger.
3. Design flexibility
Your app should be an extension of your brand, not a cookie-cutter template. Some Shopify mobile app builders only offer pre-designed templates with little to no customization. Ideally, you should choose a builder that offers a wide range of customization options. This includes the ability to use your own color schemes, fonts, imagery, and the overall user-interface to create a unique look that aligns with your brand identity.
4. Seamless integrations
Your app shouldn't exist in a vacuum. Look for a builder that plays well with others, offering integrations with popular tools and services. This might include payment gateways, marketing platforms, or analytics tools. The more your app can connect with your existing tech stack and Shopify integrations, the more powerful it becomes.
5. App push notifications
One of the most effective strategies to get your customers to make is purchase is via app push notifications. These notifications can be timed to precision and nudge the customers to checkout. They allow you to reach out to your customers directly, even when they're not actively using your app. Ensure your chosen Shopify mobile app builder offers robust push notification features, allowing you to send personalized messages, promotional alerts, and order updates.
6. Distribution on App Store and Play Store
Your beautiful new app won't do much good if no one can find it. A top-notch mobile app builder should assist you in getting your app listed on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. This might include help with app store optimization, submission processes, and meeting platform guidelines.
7. Customer support
Last but certainly not least, make sure your chosen builder offers reliable customer support. Building and maintaining an app can be complex, and you want to know help is available when you need it. Look for builders that offer multiple support channels (email, chat, phone) and have a reputation for responsive and helpful service.
Remember, the right Shopify mobile app builder for you will depend on your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise. Take the time to explore different options, try out demos where available, and don't be afraid to ask questions before making your decision.
The best Shopify mobile app builders for eCommerce businesses
We have listed the following Shopify mobile app builders based on the features they have to offer and of course, how popular they are in the Shopify ecosystem.
We will keep this list updated as there are more Shopify mobile app builders launched.
1. Appbrew
Appbrew stands out as one of the most powerful mobile app builders for Shopify stores. It allows you to seamlessly convert your Shopify website into native eCommerce apps for both iOS and Android.
The apps created with Appbrew are optimized for higher engagement, retention, and conversion, allowing you to focus on making business decisions rather than managing the app itself.
With a keen focus on creating seamless shopping experiences, Appbrew offers a suite of advanced features to boost engagement and conversions. It comes with over 100 integrations to enhance the experience for both you and your customers.
You'll also gain access to advanced analytics, helping you with Meta and Google ads targeting for higher ROAS on your ad campaigns.
Key features
- Drag and Drop Builder: Appbrew's intuitive interface allows you to design and customize your app effortlessly. You can easily add elements, adjust layouts, and fine-tune your app's appearance without any coding knowledge.
- No-Code Blocks: The platform offers pre-designed blocks for various elements such as image lists, product grids, videos, product cards, banners, carousels, and announcement strips. These blocks can be quickly added and customized to create a unique app layout.
- App-Only Promotions: Create exclusive offers and promotions for your app users. This feature helps drive app downloads and encourages customers to shop through the app, boosting engagement and sales.
- Personalized Push Notifications: Automate app push notifications for various purposes, including cart recovery, deal promotion, product recommendations, review requests, and important updates. These targeted messages keep your customers engaged and encourage repeat purchases.
- Deeplinks: Guide shoppers directly to specific pages or products within your app from external sources like your website, social media, or ad campaigns. This seamless navigation enhances the user experience and can lead to higher conversion rates.
- Product Bundling: Offer curated product bundles within the app to introduce buyers to more items and increase your average order value (AOV). This feature can be particularly effective for cross-selling and upselling.
- Social Login: Simplify the sign-in process by allowing users to log in using their social media accounts. This convenience can reduce friction in the checkout process and potentially increase conversion rates.
- Video Commerce: Integrate engaging video content to showcase products, feature influencer collaborations, and provide how-to demonstrations. This rich media can significantly enhance product understanding and appeal.
- Theme and Content Scheduling: Easily create and switch between different app themes for various sales events, holidays, seasons, and more. This feature ensures your app always looks fresh and relevant to current promotions.
- App Distribution Banners: Use strategically placed banners to promote your app across various platforms, encouraging more downloads and expanding your mobile user base.
2. Hulk
Hulk, a product of HulkApps, is a Shopify mobile app builder that caters to store owners looking for an affordable yet functional solution.
Using drag-and-drop tools, it allows you to create an app without coding knowledge, seamlessly syncing with your Shopify store through the API.
While its integrations are somewhat limited outside of HulkApps products, it's particularly beneficial for those already using other HulkApps tools.
Key features
- Experience diverse notification features designed to boost promotions and drive sales.
- Engage both iOS and Android users by introducing your app to both platforms.
- Gain full control of your crucial business metrics with a dynamic dashboard.
- Create unique shopping experiences using existing Shopify login credentials.
3. MageNative
MageNative offers a comprehensive solution for Shopify store owners looking to expand into the mobile app space. Its drag-and-drop builder simplifies app creation for both iOS and Android, requiring no coding skills. Beyond app building, it aids in optimizing landing pages and leverages AI for product recommendations.
Also Read: Top 9 Alternatives for MageNative Shopify Mobile App Builder
Key features
- Support multiple languages for a seamless global customer experience.
- Tailor push notifications according to customer preferences.
- Offer effortless and few-click login options for customers through social logins.
- Integrate seamlessly with the most used applications for your Shopify store.
- Transform your data into valuable insights with accurate reports and analytics.
4. Tapcart
Tapcart distinguishes itself in the Shopify mobile app builder market with its advanced features and user-friendly interface. It caters to e-commerce businesses seeking to create a high-quality mobile shopping experience without extensive technical expertise. The platform's intuitive drag-and-drop tools make it easy to customize and update your app on the fly.
Key features
- Create native iOS & Android mobile apps in weeks without coding knowledge.
- Manage your app easily with intuitive tools, even without technical expertise.
- Engage customers effectively with advanced push notification capabilities.
- Leverage integrated social media features to enhance your mobile strategy.
5. Plobal Apps
Plobal Apps leverages AI technology to create custom mobile apps for Shopify stores that seamlessly align with your brand identity. As a certified Shopify Plus partner, Plobal ensures high-quality, compatible apps that meet Shopify's stringent standards.
Plobal's focus on data-driven insights and personalization makes it particularly valuable for businesses looking to optimize their mobile strategy based on customer behavior and preferences.
Key features
- Maximize order value with personalized upsell and cross-sell recommendations.
- Integrate easily with multiple e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Magento.
- Customize your app's design and layout to match your brand's aesthetic.
- Send targeted push notifications based on customer interests and behavior.
- Gain valuable insights into customer preferences for data-driven decisions.
6. Vajro
Vajro stands out for its rapid app development capabilities, allowing businesses to create fully functional mobile apps in minutes using templates and drag-and-drop tools. This speed-to-market approach is particularly beneficial for businesses looking to quickly establish a mobile presence.
Also Read: Best Vajro Alternatives to Build a Shopify eCommerce App
Key features
- Leverage Vajro's intuitive live selling platform for real-time engagement.
- Utilize robust marketing features to promote your products effectively.
- Integrate seamlessly with your existing e-commerce systems and tools.
- Offer multi-language and currency options for a global customer base.
- Access dedicated support managers available 24/7 for assistance.
7. Shopney
Shopney offers a comprehensive mobile app building solution tailored specifically for e-commerce businesses. Its strength lies in extensive customization options that allow businesses to create apps that perfectly align with their brand identity and user experience goals.
Shopney's focus on creating a cohesive brand experience across all touchpoints, combined with its robust integration capabilities, makes it a strong choice for businesses looking to create a fully-featured, brand-aligned mobile shopping experience.
Also Read: Best Shopney Alternatives for Shopify Stores
Key features
- Integrate richly with top Shopify apps for enhanced functionality.
- Offer real-time customer support through in-app live chat capabilities.
- Navigate the app-building process with a user-friendly interface.
- Choose from various theme options for product display and listing pages.
8. Evlop
Evlop distinguishes itself as a Shopify mobile app builder with a compelling mix of user-friendly design, multi-channel integration, and powerful marketing tools. It caters to customer stores by offering a balance of functionality and ease of use, making it a strong contender in the market.
Key features
- Provide extensive documentation and dedicated support for user assistance.
- Enable app localization to tap into global business opportunities.
- Offer a range of powerful marketing tools to boost engagement and sales.
- Deliver better cost-to-benefit ratio, leading to improved return on investment.
9. JMango360
JMango360 offers a streamlined approach to launching premium mobile apps for both B2B and B2C webstores. This low-code platform allows for quick design, integration, and launch of stunning mobile apps, typically within weeks. A standout feature is the inclusion of app marketing services, providing a comprehensive solution for businesses.
Key features
- Provide an easy-to-use and user-friendly interface for app creation and management.
- Enable businesses to create their own mobile app without requiring coding knowledge.
- Deliver a seamless shopping experience with features like push notifications and mobile payments.
- Offer extensive customization options to align the app with the brand's look and feel.
10. Apptuse
Apptuse positions itself as one of the simplest app builders to use, requiring no additional configuration or coding knowledge. It promises universal compatibility across platforms and devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users. The platform focuses on creating a strong customer-focused sales approach through various features.
Key features
- Allow customers to select and shortlist favorite products for future purchases.
- Provide an easy-to-use interface for building your own mobile app for customers.
- Enable customers to filter products using set tags for improved navigation.
- Offer an advanced analytics suite for making informed, data-driven decisions.
11. Appmaker.xyz
Appmaker offers a straightforward Shopify mobile app builder with a visual editor for interface design and seamless backend syncing with Shopify stores. While it may not be the most sophisticated option, it excels in ease of use and supports a wide range of payment gateways. It's particularly suitable for stores with simpler needs and no requirement for complex integrations.
Key features
- Provide an easy-to-use and user-friendly interface for app development.
- Offer a wide range of customization options to tailor the app to brand needs.
- Enable seamless integration with Shopify stores for consistent data management.
- Allow for quick and efficient app development and deployment processes.
12. MobiLoud
MobiLoud specializes in transforming existing websites into Shopify mobile apps, requiring businesses to have a functional website to use this builder. It offers real-time syncing between the app and website, ensuring consistent updates across platforms. While the launch time is longer compared to other options, MobiLoud provides a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to extend their web presence to mobile.
Key features
- Maintain compatibility with your existing tech stack in the mobile app environment.
- Reflect any changes made to your website immediately in your app for consistency.
- Eliminate the need to maintain a separate app codebase, simplifying management.
- Provide dedicated project and customer success managers for personalized support.
- Offer an affordable solution without significantly increasing your workload.
Conclusion: Choosing the best Shopify mobile app builder!
In this post, we've taken you on a tour of the best mobile app builders for Shopify stores. These powerful tools have leveled the playing field, making it possible for store owners of all sizes to launch their own native Android and iOS apps without breaking the bank or needing a degree in computer science.
Now, let's be real — most drag-and-drop builders can feel like trying to prepare for FIFA without a football. They're easy to use, sure, but often leave you wanting more that can’t be achieved. And that's where Appbrew stands out from the crowd.
With Appbrew, the sky's the limit. Whatever feature you're dreaming up for your app, Appbrew can make it happen. Not only is Appbrew more affordable than custom development, but it also doesn't box you in with limitations.
You get the best of both worlds: the ease of a drag-and-drop builder with the flexibility of custom development.
Plus, Appbrew ensures you don't lose any functionality from your themes, apps, or plugins. The result? A seamless experience that'll make your customers wonder why they ever shopped on anything but your app.
Ready to take your Shopify store to mobile? Book a demo today!
