Mobile: Soft update - Mobile app update suggestions

Why did we build this?

Keeping mobile apps up to date is critical for security, performance, and feature enhancements. However, users often delay or ignore updates, leading to outdated versions that may cause issues like security vulnerabilities, performance degradation, or missing key features.

To address this, we built the Soft update feature, which encourages users to update their app without disrupting their workflow while ensuring they stay on an optimal version for the best experience.

Who is this for?

The Soft Update feature benefits multiple stakeholders across different roles like end users, frontline users, ICs, HR, IT, and leadership teams, ensuring they are always using a secure and up-to-date version of the app, providing the best performance and access to the latest features.

What are we solving?

Managing app updates across different deployment methods (App Store, Play Store, MDM, MAM, ABM, Unlisted apps) can be challenging, leading to inconsistent versioning across users. This results in:

• Users running outdated versions, missing critical security patches and bug fixes.

• Performance issues due to older app versions not optimized for new OS updates.

• Increased support tickets from users facing version-related issues.

• Delayed adoption of new features, reducing the overall value delivered.

With Soft update, we are solving these problems by introducing a way to notify users about app updates while allowing flexibility in when they update.

What do users get from this? 

1. Improved employee productivity: Ensures that users always have the latest performance optimizations, reducing app crashes, slowdowns, and bugs.

2. Enhanced employee experience & culture: Provides a frictionless way to update without impacting the daily experience.

3. Reduced risk of failure: Mitigates risks related to outdated versions, security vulnerabilities, and compliance failures.

Soft update flow based on app type

App type	Update experience	User actions
Public or unlisted apps (Available via App Store/Play Store)	Users receive a pop-up suggesting them to update app via the App Store/Play Store.	Update Now → Redirects to the App Store/Play Store. Dismiss → Dismisses, but user gets reminded later on every third open.
Private Apps (MDM, MAM, ABM, Custom Distribution)	Users receive a message prompting them to contact IT to update the app.	OK → Dismisses message (Reminder on every third app open).