An addictive app should be unique and tap into what users want. On the same lines, an app that includes setting goals can also be addictive to users as they struggle to meet and beat targets. According to Techinasia.com, Flappy Bird is addictive as it holds all the above quality to draw player’s attention to it.

HOOK

To make an app addictive, it needs a hook. An app to bring out emotion. Negative ones are the most effective, like stress or frustration.

REPETITION

Apps that constantly require repeating the same actions are also effective in luring users.

Leave Users Wanting More: Developers should impose time limits as this leaves users wanting to achieve extra. Candy Crush is a unique widespread app that does this well.

NOTIFICATIONS

Notify and remind a user of the app. This method is used well by Twitter and Facebook.

BEING SOCIAL

Developers can take advantage of this by linking apps to Facebook and Twitter. These actions have proven to be addictive, as people like to share their updates with friends.

Fun: A fun app pleases users and can even act as a form of distraction.

REWARDS

Apps that reward users and their performance, such as Candy Crush and Foursquare, have proved to be particularly addictive.

Let Users Be Creative: Let users show their artistic side. Instagram lets users manipulate photos and run wild with their imagination; possibly a reason for their popularity.

LONGEVITY OR NOVELTY

Added challenge is generating an addictive app that has longevity rather than one that is downloaded a lot, but only utilized once or twice.

A high number of app downloads can still play a role in its success. With free apps, there is always a likelihood that free users can be converted into paid ones. For paid apps, the greater number of downloads, the higher the revenue.

How to Achieve Addictive App Status: Making an app that not only becomes popular but is something users can’t live without is difficult. However, apps that combine the mentioned addictive essentials are likely to go far.