Empirical study of the innovation performance of Hungarian application developers

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14267/VEZTUD.2025.10.01

Keywords:

app economy, mobile application, innovation, platform strategy, business model, Hungary

Abstract

The mobile application market is rapidly evolving, yet empirical insights into developer performance in smaller markets remain scarce. This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of the Hungarian app economy, examining 3,047 applications from 579 developers between 2015 and 2023. The authors’ dataset, covering both iOS and Android platforms, enables a holistic view of sector trends. Using cluster analysis and log-linear regression, the authors identify key success factors and revenue determinants. While Hungarian developers hold a modest global market share (Android: 0.052%, iOS: 0.013%), they excel in specific categories such as Education and Games & Entertainment. Developers employing hybrid business models and cross-platform strategies achieve significantly higher revenues. The authors identify three ecosystem clusters: beginners (56.7%), mid-field (41.9%), and star developers (1.4%). Their findings deepen the understanding of app economy dynamics and offer practical insights for developers and policymakers.

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Author Biographies

  • Adrián Gaál, University of Pécs

    assistant lecturer

  • Enikő Czigler, University of Pécs

    postdoc

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Published

2025-10-14

Issue

Section

Studies and Articles

How to Cite

Gaál, A., & Czigler, E. (2025). Empirical study of the innovation performance of Hungarian application developers. Vezetéstudomány Budapest Management Review, 56(10), 2-15. https://doi.org/10.14267/VEZTUD.2025.10.01