Mobile app Facts for Kids

iPad running a mobile app

Wikipedia apps running on smartphones

A mobile app is a special computer program. It is made to work on devices like smartphones and tablet computers. People often just call them "apps." You can find most apps in an app store. These stores started around 2008. The biggest app stores are run by the companies that make the device's operating system.

Some apps come already on your device when you buy it. Other apps can be downloaded for free from an app store. Some apps you need to buy. Software developers create these apps. They usually offer them through the app store.

What are Mobile Apps?
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What are Mobile Apps?

Mobile apps are like small tools or games for your phone or tablet. They help you do many things. You can play games, watch videos, or learn new things. Apps make your mobile device very useful. They are designed to be easy to use on a small screen.

Where Do Apps Come From?

Apps are created by people called software developers. They write special code to make the apps work. Once an app is ready, developers put it in an app store. This is like an online shop for apps. Each app store works with a specific type of device. For example, Apple devices use the App Store. Android devices use Google Play.

Getting Apps on Your Device

There are a few ways to get apps:

Pre-installed apps: Some apps are already on your phone or tablet when you buy it. These often include basic tools like a calculator or a camera.
Free apps: Many apps can be downloaded for free. You just need to find them in the app store and tap "install."
Paid apps: Some apps cost money to download. You pay a small fee to use them. Developers often charge for apps that offer special features or no ads.

How Apps Work with Your Device

Every smartphone or tablet has an operating system. This is the main software that makes the device run. Apps are made to work with a specific operating system. For example, an app made for an iPhone might not work on an Android phone. This is because they have different operating systems.