Optimize Data Usage: Implement image and video compression to reduce file sizes. Minimize the amount of data transferred during app updates. Implement Offline Functionality: Allow users to download content for offline viewing. Store frequently used data locally on the device. Utilize Adaptive Bitrate Streaming: For video streaming, automatically adjust the resolution based on the network speed. For audio streaming, adjust the bitrate to ensure smooth playback.

One of the biggest frustrations for mobile users is apps struggling on poor networks. Whether it’s buffering videos or failed transactions, users expect a seamless experience. Here’s how I’ve optimized OTT and banking apps to handle challenging network conditions: For OTT apps, adaptive bitrate streaming adjusts quality dynamically, offline viewing allows downloads, and background downloads ensure uninterrupted playback. For banking apps, offline mode enables access to balances, optimized API calls retry failed transactions, and progressive data loading prioritizes essential info first. These optimizations have reduced buffering by 40% and improved transaction speed by 50%, leading to better user experiences.

There are many things that you can do but from my experience, optimizing API data transfer (ex: reducing API payload and lazy loading) and then implementing network resilience strategies, such as caching/offline mode and graceful degradation, are my silver bullets for this case.

I would suggest to check-out Absolute (former Netmotion) who are leveraging the UDP protocol and building persistant connections without losing application sessions in case of bad communication networks or switching between WiFi-4G/5G-fixed technologies. Of course, they also compress and encrypt all (in band) communication sessions and prioritise bandwidth by being application-aware (i.e. applying the proper policies per application). We have been using them succesfully for over 12 years supporting business critical applications when being mobile. Good luck - stay safe & stay secure.

With 14 years of experience, I have faced this challenge countless times. The trick is anticipating issues. ↳ Optimise API calls for speed ↳ Use caching for offline use ↳ Compress data for faster sync Always test on low-speed networks. I remember a project in rural India where 2G was the reality. We implemented lightweight protocols, and the app flew like a champ. A stable app wins user trust. Also, never underestimate user patience. Unstable networks are a reality, but a well-planned app makes them invisible. Solving this is less about tech, more about empathy. Because smooth apps are happy apps. 😄