For entrepreneurs in Asia, the future seems brighter than ever.
More so than elsewhere in the world, Asia "leapfrogged other forms of connectivity" to become so-called "mobile-first," said Jesus Martin, chief strategy at Microsoft Asia.
"And because Asia went mobile-first, mobile became the platform that underpinned innovations and new business models." Mobile first refers to the strategy of designing products and experiences for smartphones and tablets.
This is also why Asia's start-up scene is taking off.
"We got the biggest share … of investments coming into the region," said Martin said, citing CB Insight's report, where Asia leads global deal share at 36% in the fourth-quarter of 2021.
"The outlook couldn't be better."
Consumers in Asia use chat apps, share shopping experiences>1. Super apps
According to Microsoft, super apps are "truly thriving" and the "newest powerhouse for innovation" in Asia. A super app is a one-stop portal that allows a user to access several services from one single app.
Beyond just hailing a cab or having food delivered, one can even book medical appointments, take up loans or pay with a mobile wallet, said Martin.
He highlighted the example of Grab — a super app offering services in food deliveries, transportation and financial services.
"They are changing the way we live, making it simple to get a ride anywhere or to order food, and are pioneering the move of taking a customer's entire lifestyle online," he said.
