Evaluation criteria for lifestyle applications – The role of MAUQ factors in satisfaction

The most common health-related apps are lifestyle apps, i.e., fitness, nutrition, diet, and meditation apps, which account for half of all m-health apps on the market. Mobile app-based interventions have been shown to be effective in improving diet-related health outcomes. The aim of this study is to map the usage patterns of lifestyle apps (fitness, diet, and relaxation apps) and identify the role of each factor in the usability of MAUQ (m-Health App Usability Questionnaire) factor - ease of use, interface satisfaction, and usefulness - in overall satisfaction. Data were collected through an online survey in Hungary with 348 users of various lifestyle applications, i.e., fitness (30.2%), nutrition (31.3%), and mindfulness (38.5%) apps. Respondents showed a preference for free apps over paid ones and predominantly used iOS operating systems. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) method was used to identify the role of usability dimensions in overall satisfaction. The satisfaction of lifestyle app users is positively influenced by ‘Ease of Use’ and ‘Interface and Satisfaction’. However, effectiveness (positive physical and mental health outcomes) negatively influences satisfaction. Research can be particularly useful for app developers, as usability and design (features) play a particularly important role in satisfaction, so these are primary considerations in development.