Mention of bugs in reviews puts half of users off downloading apps

Half of app users are likely to be dissuaded from downloading an app based on customer reviews that mention bugs and glitches, according to a new survey.

The study conducted by independent software testing company QualiTest Group, shows users aged 45 to 54 are the least likely to download an app with negative customer reviews, and are the age group least convinced that companies do enough to ensure UX and update apps to have fewer bugs.

Only 10 percent of app users are 'very likely' to download an app despite customer reviews referencing bugs and glitches. Just 35 percent of app users overall believe that companies do enough to ensure a better user experience and to offer updated versions of apps with fewer bugs.

When it comes to leaving reviews, less than half of app users are not likely to leave a negative review in the app market after experiencing bugs. Women are more likely than men to leave negative reviews overall, though more men than women aged 18 to 24 are likely to give negative feedback.

"In the highly competitive app market, customer reviews are king. In order to ensure downloads and maximize revenue, app developers must take into account the reputation of their apps online," says Ami Sterling, CMO of QualiTest. "There is no reason for app developers to lose out on 50 percent of potential downloads due to negative reviews associated with bugs or glitches. With simple QA and testing, these bugs can be eliminated before the apps are released to market."

You can find out more about the results on the QualiTest website.