A Beginner’s Guide To Turning Your Shopify Store Into A Mobile App

Last updated on September 16th, 2024

Shopify is not only a popular e-commerce platform, but it’s also a game-changer for entrepreneurs looking to establish their online stores and sell products effortlessly. With its user-friendly interface, extensive app marketplace, and seamless integration with various payment gateways, Shopify has become the go-to choice for many small businesses striving for success in the digital realm.

However, in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving digital age, simply having an online presence may not be enough to stay ahead of the competition. More and more consumers are shifting towards mobile devices for their shopping needs, and having a dedicated mobile app can give businesses a significant competitive advantage. Research has indicated that customers tend to spend approximately three times more on average when using a mobile app compared to a traditional website.

By leveraging the power of a Shopify mobile app, businesses can tap into the immense potential of the mobile market and provide their customers with a seamless, on-the-go shopping experience. With features like push notifications, personalized recommendations, and easy checkout options, a mobile app can enhance customer engagement, foster loyalty, and ultimately boost sales.

Why Should You Turn the Shopify Store Into A Mobile App?

Given the numerous benefits of having a Shopify mobile app, it’s clear that businesses should not ignore this potential revenue stream. Here are some compelling reasons why you should turn your Shopify store into a mobile app:

• Increased Sales: As mentioned earlier, customers tend to spend more when using a mobile app. Moreover, with features like push notifications and easy checkout options, businesses can nudge customers toward making a purchase, resulting in increased sales.
• Enhanced Customer Engagement: A mobile app allows for more personalized and targeted communication with customers, leading to better engagement. By sending push notifications about new products, discounts, or special offers, businesses can keep their customers informed and engaged.
• Brand Loyalty: A well-designed and user-friendly mobile app can enhance the overall customer experience, leading to increased brand loyalty. By providing a seamless and convenient shopping experience, businesses can build a strong relationship with their customers and foster brand loyalty.
• Competitive Advantage: In today’s digital landscape, having a Shopify store alone may not be enough to stand out from the competition. A dedicated mobile app for your business can give you a competitive advantage and attract more customers.
• Convenient Shopping Experience: A mobile app offers a more convenient shopping experience for customers, allowing them to browse and make purchases on the go. This accessibility can lead to increased customer satisfaction and repeat purchases.
• Customer Insights: By analyzing customer data from your Shopify store’s mobile app, businesses can gain valuable insights into their target audience’s behavior and preferences. This data can then be used to make informed business decisions and improve marketing strategies.
• Integration with Shopify: One of the significant advantages of turning your Shopify store into a mobile app is the seamless integration between the two platforms. This allows for easy management and synchronization of inventory, payments, and customer data.
• Cost-effective Marketing: Mobile apps provide businesses with a cost-effective way to market their products and services. By utilizing push notifications, businesses can stay connected with their customers and promote new products, discounts, or special offers.
• Enhanced Customer Support: Mobile apps offer businesses an additional channel for customer support. Customers can easily contact the business through the app for any queries or concerns, leading to improved customer satisfaction.
• Brand Loyalty: A well-designed mobile app can help businesses build brand loyalty by creating a personalized and engaging shopping experience for customers. By offering exclusive deals or rewards through the app, businesses can incentivize customers to continue their patronage.

Why Are Websites or Mobile Websites Insufficient in Fulfilling The Current E-commerce Needs?

While websites and mobile websites have been the traditional platforms for eCommerce, they may not always be sufficient in fulfilling the current needs of businesses and customers. With the rise of m-commerce (mobile commerce), turning your Shopify store into a mobile app can provide numerous benefits that cannot be achieved through a website or mobile website alone.

One of the main reasons for this is that consumers are increasingly turning to mobile devices for their shopping needs. According to a report by Statista, global e-commerce sales are projected to reach $3.56 trillion by 2021, showing the growing preference for mobile shopping.

In addition, websites and mobile websites may not always provide a seamless user experience, especially on smaller screens. Mobile apps offer a more streamlined and user-friendly interface, making it easier for customers to browse and make purchases.

Can I Turn My Shopify Store Into An App?

One popular and convenient option for creating a Shopify app is by utilizing app builders like Tapcart or Plobal Apps. These user-friendly platforms empower businesses to effortlessly develop a custom-branded app for their online store, eliminating the need for any prior coding expertise. With their intuitive interfaces and comprehensive features, these app builders provide a seamless experience, ensuring that even those without extensive technical knowledge can easily create and manage their own Shopify app. This allows businesses to enhance their online presence and provide a more personalized and engaging shopping experience to their customers.

What Are The Key Requirements To Turn A Shopify Website Into A Mobile App?

Before beginning the process of turning your Shopify store into an app, it is important to ensure that you meet certain requirements. These include having a registered domain and a valid SSL certificate for your website, as well as maintaining an active Shopify subscription plan with proper payment processing capabilities.

In addition, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your target audience and their preferences in order to create a successful and engaging app. This includes considering their preferred language, location, and shopping habits. By tailoring your app to the specific needs of your target audience, you can increase customer satisfaction and ultimately drive more sales.

How Do I Convert My Shopify Store To A Mobile App? – Know The 3 Methods

• Utilizing an App Builder: As mentioned earlier, using app builders like Tapcart or Plobal Apps is a simple and efficient way to create a mobile app for your Shopify store. These platforms offer various customization options, such as choosing a layout, design themes, and adding features like push notifications, loyalty programs, and more. With their user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop functionality, you can easily create a visually appealing app that reflects your brand identity and engages your customers.

• Hiring A Developer: If you have specific design and functionality requirements for your app, hiring a developer may be the best option. They can help bring your vision to life and provide technical expertise to ensure that your app runs smoothly. A skilled developer can implement custom features, optimize performance, and integrate complex functionalities tailored to your unique business needs. By collaborating with a developer, you have the opportunity to create a highly customized and seamless app experience for your customers.

• Integrating With Third-Party Apps: Another method is to integrate with third-party apps like Appy Pie or GoodBarber, which allow you to connect your Shopify store with their app-building platform. This can be a cost-effective option for those looking to create a basic app without the need for extensive customization. These platforms offer pre-designed templates and modules that you can easily configure to match your brand and business requirements. Additionally, they provide integrations with various services and tools, such as payment gateways and analytics, allowing you to enhance the functionality of your app.

How To Build A Shopify Mobile App? 

Method 1: 3rd-Party Shopify Plugins

One of the most popular and efficient ways to turn your Shopify store into a mobile app is by using third-party plugins. These plugins, specifically designed for integrating your online store with an app, make the process quick, easy, and budget-friendly.

To get started, you can browse through the extensive collection of plugins available in the Shopify app store and carefully select the one that suits your unique needs. Some of the highly recommended options include Tapcart, Plobal Apps, and MageNative. These plugins offer a wide range of features, such as push notifications to engage your customers, seamless in-app purchases to enhance their shopping experience, and robust multi-language support to cater to a global audience.

What makes these plugins even more appealing is their user-friendly nature. You don’t need any coding or technical knowledge to set them up. They provide customizable templates that can be personalized to match your brand’s aesthetic perfectly. Additionally, you can preview the app before publishing it on the app store, ensuring that every detail is just the way you want it.

How To Choose The Best 3rd Party Shopify Plugin To Create An App For My Online Store?

When selecting a third-party Shopify plugin for creating your mobile app, it’s essential to consider a few factors to ensure you make the best choice for your business. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

1. Customization Facilities:

The chosen plugin should provide a high level of customization to help you create an app that truly reflects your brand’s personality. It should enable you to add your logo, choose color schemes and fonts, and even offer multiple design templates.

2. Android and iOS Apps:

A good plugin will not only provide you with the option to create both Android and iOS apps for your Shopify store, but it will also offer a seamless and user-friendly interface for effortless app development. With the ever-increasing number of smartphone users, it’s crucial to cater to both platforms to ensure maximum reach and engagement with a wider audience. By offering mobile apps, you can enhance the shopping experience, boost customer loyalty, and stay ahead of the competition in the rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape.

3. AI-powered Notifications:

AI-powered notifications are an essential feature of any mobile app as they improve user engagement and retention. The chosen plugin should allow you to send personalized push notifications to your customers, including exclusive offers, discounts, and updates on new products or services. This will not only keep your customers informed but also encourage them to make more frequent purchases.

4. Advanced Technologies:

By incorporating the latest cutting-edge technologies in your mobile app, you can effectively set it apart from your competitors and provide your customers with a truly unique and enhanced shopping experience. Look for plugins and integrations that offer features such as augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR) for immersive product exploration, voice search for convenient and hands-free navigation, chatbots for personalized assistance and quick responses, and one-click payment options for seamless transactions.

5. Ease of Access:

To ensure a seamless shopping experience, it is crucial that your mobile app is not only user-friendly but also easy to navigate. When choosing a plugin for app creation, opt for one that offers customizable templates and layouts. This will allow you to tailor the design to match your brand’s unique identity. Additionally, look for intuitive design tools and drag-and-drop features that simplify the app-building process.

Furthermore, the chosen plugin should provide seamless integration with your existing Shopify store. This means you can effortlessly sync product data, inventory, and customer information between your app and online store. By streamlining these processes, you can enhance efficiency and provide a consistent experience across platforms.

6. Sufficient Number of Themes and Design Options:

When it comes to customer perception of your brand, the impact of a well-designed app cannot be overstated. By carefully selecting a plugin that provides an extensive range of themes and design options, you gain the flexibility to create an app that not only looks visually appealing but also aligns perfectly with your target audience’s preferences. This attention to detail in crafting an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly app will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your customers, elevating their overall experience and strengthening their connection with your brand.

7. Marketing Assistance:

In addition to the technical aspects, it is also essential to consider a plugin that offers marketing assistance for your mobile app. This can include features like push notifications, social media integration, and analytics tools to track user engagement and behavior. By utilizing these marketing tools effectively, you can drive more traffic to your app and ultimately increase sales for your Shopify store.

Also Read: Shopify Theme UX Essentials: Tips for Creating an Intuitive User Experience

How to Convert Shopify Store to Mobile App With 3rd Party Shopify Plugins – Complete Step-by-step Process

Now that you have a better understanding of the benefits of using third-party Shopify plugins to convert your store into a mobile app, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for doing so:

Step 1: Install the Application

To get started, the first step is to install the chosen plugin onto your Shopify store. This can usually be done by visiting the Shopify app store and searching for the desired plugin. Once you find it, simply click on the “Install” button and follow the prompts to complete the installation. Alternatively, if you have already downloaded the plugin as a zip file, you can upload it directly onto your website by navigating to the “Apps” section in your Shopify dashboard, selecting “Manage apps,” and then choosing the “Upload app” option. By taking these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to enhancing the functionality and features of your Shopify store.

• Product Listing: Display all your products in an organized fashion, allowing customers to browse and make purchases with ease.
• Push Notifications: Keep your customers engaged by sending them regular updates about new products, promotions, or other pertinent information.
• Social Media Integration: With this feature, you can link your app to various social media platforms, amplifying your reach and engaging more customers.
• Customizable Interface: Most plugins allow you to customize the look and feel of your app, ensuring it aligns with your brand image.

Step 2: Configure Your Shopify Mobile App

Once the plugin is installed, it’s time to configure your mobile app. This involves setting up your desired layout, adding relevant content and images, and defining any necessary functionalities. Many plugins come with pre-designed templates for you to choose from, making this step quick and easy.

• User Accounts: Allow your customers to create their own accounts, making it easier for them to track orders and repeat purchases.
• Reviews and Ratings: Incorporate a system for customers to leave product reviews and ratings, which can help build trust with potential customers.
• Search and Filter: Implement a robust search and filter system to help customers easily find what they are looking for.
• Shopping Cart and Checkout: Provide a straightforward and secure system for customers to add items to their cart and proceed to checkout.
• Payment Gateway Integration: Ensure seamless transactions by integrating reliable payment gateways.
• Order Tracking: Include a feature for customers to track their orders and receive updates about the delivery status.

Step 3: Preview Your Shopify Mobile App

Before launching your app, it’s important to preview and test it thoroughly. This will allow you to identify and fix any bugs or issues before they affect your customers’ experience. Most plugins have a built-in preview feature that allows you to see how your app will look and function on different devices.

• User Interface (UI): Check the layout, color schemes, fonts, and icon designs for consistency and user-friendliness.
• User Accounts: Test the account creation process, login/logout functions, and the usability of order tracking and purchase history features.
• Product Listings: Verify that product descriptions, images, and prices are correctly displayed. Test the review and rating system for errors.
• Search and Filter Functions: Experiment with various search terms and filtering options to ensure customers can find products easily.
• Shopping Cart and Checkout Process: Test adding products to the cart, changing quantities, removing items, and the overall checkout process.
• Payment Gateway: Validate the function of the integrated payment gateway by conducting test transactions.
• Order Tracking: Confirm that the order tracking feature correctly updates and displays the delivery status.

Step 4: Publish or Launch The Shopify Mobile App

Once you’re satisfied with the functionality and design of your Shopify mobile app, it’s time to publish or launch it. This step involves submitting your app to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for review and approval.

• Apple App Store: Follow the guidelines provided by Apple to submit your app for review. Apple will test your app for bugs, compatibility, and compliance with their guidelines before approving it for release.
• Google Play Store: Similar to the Apple App Store, Google also has a review process in place for new apps. Submit your app for review and wait for approval from Google. They will also test your app for compatibility and adherence to their guidelines.

How Much Do 3rd-Party Shopify Plugins Cost?

When it comes to the cost of 3rd party Shopify plugins, it’s important to note that the pricing can vary significantly based on factors such as the functionality and complexity of the plugin. While some plugins may be available for free, others can range from a few dollars to hundreds or even thousands of dollars. It’s essential to carefully consider your specific needs and budget when selecting the right plugin for your Shopify store. It’s important to carefully research and compare prices before purchasing a plugin for your Shopify store.

1. Customizable Shopify Plugins

Customizable plugins that offer advanced features and customization options tend to be more expensive compared to basic plugins. These types of plugins can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the complexity and functionality they offer.

2. Cost-effective Shopify Plugins

If you’re on a tight budget, there are many cost-effective options available for Shopify plugins. These can range from free to around $50 and offer basic features that can still be beneficial in enhancing your store’s functionality.

3. Realtime Development Costs

Many Shopify plugins are constantly updated and improved, which can also affect their pricing. As new features and functionality are added, the cost of a plugin may increase. It’s essential to keep this in mind when considering the long-term costs of a particular plugin for your store.

4. Personalized Marketing Plugins

Personalized marketing plugins, which use customer data to create targeted campaigns and promotions, can be quite expensive. These types of plugins can range from $100 to thousands of dollars, depending on the level of customization and functionality they offer.

5. Coding Knowledge is not Needed – Drag n Drop

Most Shopify plugins are designed to be user-friendly and easy to install, even for those without coding knowledge. This is beneficial for store owners who want to add functionality to their store without the need for external help or hiring a developer.

6. Complete Data Access

Shopify plugins offer complete data access, allowing you to track your store’s performance and customer behavior. This data can be essential in making informed decisions about marketing strategies and product offerings.

Read More: An Ultimate Guide to Building a Shopping App Like Temu App

How to Build a Shopify Mobile App? 

Method 2: 3rd Party SaaS Platform – App Builder

Aside from utilizing a wide range of Shopify plugins, another effective method to transform your online store into a mobile app is by leveraging third-party SaaS (Software as a Service) platforms. These platforms offer a user-friendly experience with drag-and-drop tools and an array of pre-made templates, empowering you to effortlessly build your app without the need for any coding knowledge or expertise. With the flexibility and convenience provided by these platforms, you can seamlessly customize your app to suit your unique branding and business requirements, ensuring a smooth and engaging mobile shopping experience for your customers.

How Much Do 3rd Party SaaS Platform – App Builders Cost?

Similar to Shopify plugins, the cost of utilizing a third-party SaaS platform for app building can vary depending on your specific needs and preferences. Some platforms offer a free trial period or a basic plan with limited features, while others require subscription fees starting from as low as $20 per month. It’s essential to do thorough research and carefully consider the features and pricing before selecting a platform that best fits your budget and business goals.

Advantages of 3rd Party SaaS Platform – App Builder

1. Customizable to Some Extent

While building an app using third-party SaaS platforms may not offer the same level of customization as coding from scratch, it still provides a decent amount of flexibility to personalize your app’s design and features. With drag-and-drop tools and pre-made templates, you can easily add your branding elements and tailor the layout to match your Shopify store’s look and feel.

2. Code Free App Making

The primary advantage of using a third-party SaaS platform for app building is the elimination of coding requirements. It allows anyone, regardless of their coding expertise, to create a functional and visually appealing app in a matter of hours or days. This convenience is especially beneficial for small business owners who may not have the resources or budget to hire professional developers.

3. Pretty Affordable

Compared to hiring a developer or building an app from scratch, using a third-party SaaS platform is relatively affordable. With subscription fees starting at around $20 per month, it’s a cost-effective option for businesses of all sizes. Plus, with no additional coding or maintenance costs, you can save even more in the long run.

Disadvantages of 3rd Party SaaS Platforms

1. Limited Control and Customization

While third-party SaaS platforms offer some level of customization, it may not be enough for businesses with unique branding and functionality needs. If you want full control over your app’s design and features, building from scratch or hiring a developer may be a better option.

2. Potential for Downtime and Technical Issues

As with any technology, there is always a risk of downtime and technical issues when using third-party SaaS platforms. If the platform experiences a service interruption or outage, your app may be affected, causing inconvenience for your customers.

3. Subscription Fees and Lack of Ownership

When using a third-party SaaS platform, you are essentially renting their services on a subscription basis. This means that you do not own the app and have to continue paying fees to keep it running. If you decide to switch platforms or discontinue your subscription, your app may no longer be accessible.

How to Build a Shopify Mobile App? 

Method 3: App Development From Scratch

For businesses with specific design and functionality requirements, building a mobile app from scratch may be the best solution. This option offers a multitude of benefits, including complete control over the app’s development and customization. By starting from scratch, businesses have the freedom to design every aspect of the app according to their unique needs and brand identity. They can incorporate specific features and functionalities that align perfectly with their business goals, ensuring a seamless user experience. Additionally, building an app from scratch allows businesses to stay ahead of the competition by implementing the latest technological advancements and industry best practices. With full control over the development process, businesses can continuously iterate and improve the app to meet the evolving needs of their target audience.

How Much Does App Development From Scratch Cost?

The cost of building an app from scratch varies depending on the complexity and features required. However, it is generally more expensive than using a third-party platform or hiring a developer. The cost can range anywhere from $15,000 to over $100,000, with factors such as design, development time, and ongoing maintenance all contributing to the final price.

Suggested: Cost to Develop Custom CRM Software

Advantages Of Making App From Scratch

1. You Are All-In-All In Control:

Building an app from scratch gives businesses complete control over every aspect of the development process. They can customize the design, features, and functionality to align with their specific goals and brand image. This level of control allows for a seamless user experience that is tailored to the target audience’s needs and preferences.

2. Select the Best Technology:

With app development from scratch, businesses have the freedom to choose the best technology stack for their app. This means incorporating the latest software and tools that align with their business needs and goals, ensuring a high-quality and efficient end product.

3. Add Personalized Touch on Everything:

When creating an app from scratch, businesses have the opportunity to add a personalized touch on everything. From the user interface to the features and content, businesses can create a unique and memorable experience for their customers.

Disadvantages of Making App From Scratch

1. High Cost and Time-Consuming:

As mentioned above, developing an app from scratch can be a costly and time-consuming process. It requires a team of skilled professionals, extensive planning, and continuous testing to ensure the final product meets business requirements.

2. Lack of Technical Expertise:

Building an app from scratch also requires a high level of technical expertise. Businesses may struggle to find the right professionals with the necessary skills and experience, leading to delays in development and potential issues with the final product.

3. Limited Scalability:

Creating an app from scratch means starting from zero, which can limit its scalability. Features and functionalities need to be added manually, making it a time-consuming process. Additionally, as the business grows and changes, the app may not be able to keep up with new requirements, leading to further development costs.

Verdict – What Is The Best Method To Convert A Shopify Store Into An App?

When it comes to converting a Shopify store into an app, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and businesses must weigh them carefully based on their specific needs and goals.

However, for most businesses, using a mobile app builder or hiring a professional developer may be the best options. These methods offer a balance between cost, time, and technical expertise, making it easier for businesses to create a high-quality and scalable app for their Shopify store.

It is important to keep in mind that no matter which method businesses choose, the ultimate goal should be to provide customers with a unique and engaging mobile experience. By having a mobile app for their Shopify store, businesses can enhance customer engagement and retention, increase sales and revenue, and stay ahead in the competitive market.

How can iTechnolabs help you convert the Shopify store into a mobile application?

iTechnolabs is a leading mobile app development company with years of experience in creating high-quality and scalable apps for businesses of all sizes. Our team of expert developers can help you convert your Shopify store into a mobile app that meets your specific needs and goals.

Here’s how iTechnolabs can assist you in building a mobile application like Shopify:

• Understanding Your Business Goals: Our dedicated team of experts will take the time to thoroughly understand your unique business goals and target audience. By gaining a deep understanding of your objectives, we can create a mobile app that not only aligns with your vision but also effectively captures the attention of your target market.

• Customized App Development: With our custom app development services, we go above and beyond to tailor every aspect of the app to your specific requirements. From the design to the features and functionality, we ensure that the app reflects your brand identity and provides a seamless user experience.

• Integration with Shopify API: Our highly skilled developers possess extensive experience in integrating apps with Shopify’s robust API. This expertise allows us to seamlessly synchronize data between your online store and the app, ensuring real-time updates and a streamlined workflow for both you and your customers.

• User-Friendly Design: At our core, we prioritize creating user-friendly and intuitive designs that prioritize usability and engagement. Through meticulous attention to detail and a focus on user experience, we craft visually appealing interfaces that make navigation effortless and enhance customer satisfaction.

• Reliable Support: Our commitment to your success extends beyond the completion of the app. Our dedicated support team will be there for you, providing reliable assistance even after the app is built. Whether you need updates, maintenance, or guidance, we are here to ensure that your app continues to meet your evolving needs and deliver exceptional value to your business.

Important: How To Create An Online Shopping Apps Like Shopee

Do you want to convert your Shopify store into a  mobile application?

Opting for iTechnolabs for your Shopify store translates into a multitude of benefits for your business. Our team’s comprehensive knowledge of the Shopify platform empowers us to leverage its potential to the fullest, thus offering you a competitive edge. By crafting a mobile app that’s in sync with your Shopify store, we can significantly enhance your customer reach and engagement. Additionally, our seamless integration with Shopify’s API ensures that your inventory management is flawless, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors. Lastly, our consistent and dependable support means that you are never alone in your journey; we are always there to assist you, ensuring your app’s optimum performance and your business’s sustained growth.

• Enhanced Customer Reach: By creating a mobile app for your Shopify store, iTechnolabs significantly expands your customer base, reaching out to those who prefer mobile shopping.
• Increased Engagement: Our user-friendly designs and intuitive interfaces encourage more user interaction, thereby increasing engagement with your Shopify store.
• Smooth Inventory Management: With our seamless integration with Shopify’s API, we ensure flawless inventory management, reducing the risk of errors and saving valuable time.
• Competitive Advantage: Our comprehensive understanding of the Shopify platform allows us to maximize its potential, giving your Shopify store a competitive edge in the market.
• Continuous Support: Our commitment doesn’t end with the app’s completion. Our dedicated support team is always available for updates, maintenance, or guidance, ensuring the optimum performance of your app and the sustained growth of your business.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, turning your Shopify store into a mobile app with the help of iTechnolabs can greatly benefit your business. From enhanced customer reach and increased engagement to smooth inventory management and competitive advantage, our services offer numerous advantages to boost your online presence and sales.