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iOS App Categories with High Retention

· 3 min read
Beniamin Marcu
Full Stack Developer
Last updated on February 5, 2026

iOS app categories

iOS users expect fast performance, clean UX, and helpful features. The categories below consistently show strong demand and clear monetization paths. Each one includes a matching Swift template to accelerate your launch.

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1. Smart dashboards and insights​

Users want answers, not charts. Summaries and insights drive engagement.

Template pick: Swift Dashboard App Template. Great for KPI cards, charts, and summary screens.

2. Finance and investing​

Budgeting, crypto, and trading remain top performers on iOS.

Template picks: Swift Finance App and Swift Stock Trading App. Both include portfolio views, charts, and insights.

3. Video and audio communication​

Real-time calling is now a baseline feature for many verticals.

Template pick: Swift Video and Audio Calling App. Ships with call screens and real-time communication UX.

4. Food delivery and local commerce​

Ordering and delivery flows drive repeat usage and strong reviews.

Template pick: Swift Food Delivery App. Menu browsing, cart, and delivery status are built in.

5. Fitness and wellness​

Habit loops and progress tracking create consistent engagement.

Template pick: Swift Fitness App. Workout flows, progress tracking, and goal screens included.

6. Marketplaces and discovery​

Maps plus listings are powerful for local services and vertical marketplaces.

Template pick: Swift Store Locator App. Map views, filters, and location details ready.

7. Social and dating​

Niche communities and dating apps keep growing thanks to strong retention loops.

Template pick: Swift Dating App Template. Profiles, matching flows, and chat UI included.

8. Ecommerce and subscriptions​

A fast checkout and smooth onboarding increases iOS conversion.

Template pick: Swift Ecommerce App. Catalog, cart, and checkout screens out of the box.

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Launch checklist​

  • Build one core loop and remove everything else.
  • Add push notifications and lifecycle messaging early.
  • Start from a production-ready Swift template.
  • Measure retention and conversion from day one.

Monetization options​

  • Subscriptions for recurring value and content.
  • Transaction fees for marketplaces and bookings.
  • Premium upgrades for power users.
  • B2B licensing for dashboard-style apps.

Retention loops that work on iOS​

  • Save and return lists (favorites, watchlists).
  • Weekly progress summaries.
  • Limited-time offers or streaks.
  • Personalized recommendations.

App Store success checklist​

  • Clear screenshots that show the core loop.
  • A short description with your main keyword.
  • Fast onboarding with minimal friction.
  • A privacy policy and data clarity from day one.
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