Last Updated on October 3, 2019 by Larious

Those who have a tablet, smartphone or mobile device have used an app at least once or twice in their lifetime. Today, there are apps developed for playing games, getting directions, news, weather and other information.

According to reports, consumers downloaded approximately 11 billion apps in 2015 alone.

While apps make the use of your smartphones more exciting, not all are created equal with no cost attached. In reference to this, Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal rolls out 5 things to know before downloading an app.

Read the reviews

One of the best ways to determine if you can download an app is to read the review of other persons that has downloaded the same applications. Depending on the responses whether positive or negative, you can decide on whether that application is for you. If there are more positive reviews, you can download and vice versa.

Data usage of the app

Some apps usually consume more mobile data than others especially if you are intent on cutting down your data usage in the new year. So, before you download; check the data usage of the app. If your app is good for download, you can adjust the setting to stop real-time notifications.

Free Apps

There are a number of applications that clearly state that it is free. But after downloading, you will discover that it is the limited version that you are given. Meanwhile, to access the full version, you will be billed. Even the free applications are usually littered with adverts.

Privacy

Privacy should not be a problem when it has to do with downloading apps. However, there some apps that access your information like phone and email contacts, call logs, device location and other unrelated data. This may probably lead to your account been accessed by hackers.

Virus Infection

While most apps are pre-approved before being added to an app store, hackers have created apps that can infect smartphones and tablets. Be cautious when downloading apps and be sure to use a reputable app store or website to download.