In the last few years, branded mobile apps have become increasingly pervasive. By the year 2015, mobile users and owners of branded apps will reach 108 million from its current level of 55 million.

In this article we’ll take a look at the rationale for branded apps and strategies for making them successful. We’ll also hear first-hand accounts from a number of businesses who have already delved into the world of branded apps and the take-away messages we can glean from their experiences.

Photos taken with Instagram on iOS devices and Android phones– are reminiscent of Polaroid photos–the popular square instant color images that helped to change the world of photography. With Instagram, users can add a variety of filters and look-and-feels to what might otherwise be an ordinary photo taken with a mobile phone.

Businesses have been jumping on the Instagram bandwagon and using the app as a way to share photos and engage users.