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{{More citations needed|date=September 2025}}
{{Short description|Any computer program for end-user use}}
{{Short description|Any computer program for end-user use}}
[[File:Windows 10 Calculator.png|thumb|[[Windows Calculator|A calculator application]] on [[Windows 10]]]]
[[File:Windows 10 Calculator.png|thumb|[[Windows Calculator|A calculator application]] on [[Windows 10]]]]
'''Application [[software]]''' is any [[computer program]] that is intended for [[end-user]] use {{endash}} not [[computer operator|operating]], [[system administration|administering]] or [[computer programming|programming]] the computer. An '''application''' ('''app''', '''application program''', '''software application''') is any program that can be categorized as application software.<ref>{{OED|application software|id=9705}}</ref>{{Ref RFC|4949|notes=no}} Common types of applications include [[word processor]], [[Media player (software)|media player]] and [[accounting software]].
'''Application software''' is [[software]] that is intended for [[end-user]] use {{endash}} not [[computer operator |operating]], [[system administration |administering]] or [[computer programming |programming]] a [[computer]]. An '''application''' ('''app''', '''application program''', '''software application''') is any [[computer program |program]] that can be categorized as application software.<ref>{{OED|application software|id=9705}}</ref>{{Ref RFC|4949|notes=no}} Application is a subjective classification that is often used to differentiate from [[system software |system]] and [[utility software |utility]] software.<ref>{{cite web |title=Application software |url=https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/37919/application-program |work=[[PC Magazine]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]}}</ref>


The term ''application software'' refers to all applications collectively<ref>{{cite web |title=Application software |url=https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/37919/application-program |work=[[PC Magazine]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]}}</ref> and can be used to differentiate from [[system software|system]] and [[utility software|utility]] software.
The [[abbreviation]] ''app'' became popular with the 2008 introduction of the [[App Store (Apple)|iOS App Store]], to refer to [[Mobile app|applications for mobile devices]] such as [[smartphone]]s and [[Tablet computer|tablets]]. Later, with the release of the [[Mac App Store]] in 2010 and the [[Windows Store]] in 2011, it began to be used to refer to end-user software in general, regardless of platform.<ref>{{Cite web|title=The History of 'App' and the Demise of the Programmer
| author= Thom Holwerda
| date = 24 June 2011
|url=https://www.osnews.com/story/24882/the-history-of-app-and-the-demise-of-the-programmer/|access-date=2023-01-12|website=osnews.com}}</ref>


Applications may be bundled with the [[computer]] and its system software or published separately. Applications may be [[proprietary software|proprietary]] or [[Open-source software|open-source]].<ref name=":1">{{cite web|last = Ryan|first = Thorne|url = https://arbiteronline.com/2013/03/14/caffeine-and-computer-screens-student-programmers-endure-weekend-long-appathon/|title = Caffeine and computer screens: student programmers endure weekend long appathon|website = The Arbiter|date = 2013-03-14|access-date = 2015-10-12|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160709054212/https://arbiteronline.com/2013/03/14/caffeine-and-computer-screens-student-programmers-endure-weekend-long-appathon/|archive-date=2016-07-09|url-status=dead}}
Applications may be bundled with the [[computer]] and its system software or published separately. Applications may be [[proprietary software|proprietary]] or [[Open-source software|open-source]].<ref name=":1">{{cite web|last = Ryan|first = Thorne|url = https://arbiteronline.com/2013/03/14/caffeine-and-computer-screens-student-programmers-endure-weekend-long-appathon/|title = Caffeine and computer screens: student programmers endure weekend long appathon|website = The Arbiter|date = 2013-03-14|access-date = 2015-10-12|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160709054212/https://arbiteronline.com/2013/03/14/caffeine-and-computer-screens-student-programmers-endure-weekend-long-appathon/|archive-date=2016-07-09|url-status=dead}}
</ref>
</ref>
The short term ''app'' (coined in 1981 or earlier<ref>{{Cite web|title=The History of 'App' and the Demise of the Programmer
| author= Thom Holwerda
| date = 24 June 2011
|url=https://www.osnews.com/story/24882/the-history-of-app-and-the-demise-of-the-programmer/|access-date=2023-01-12|website=osnews.com}}</ref>) became popular with the 2008 introduction of the [[App Store (Apple)|iOS App Store]], to refer to [[Mobile app|applications for mobile devices]] such as [[smartphone]]s and [[Tablet computer|tablets]]. Later, with introduction of the [[Mac App Store]] (in 2010) and [[Windows Store]] (in 2011), the term was extended in popular use to include desktop applications.


== Terminology ==
== Terminology ==
The delineation between system software such as [[operating system]]s and application software is not exact and is occasionally the object of controversy.<ref name=cutter /> For example, one of the key questions in the ''[[United States v. Microsoft Corp. (2001)|United States v. Microsoft Corp.]]'' [[antitrust]] trial was whether Microsoft's [[Internet Explorer]] [[web browser]] was part of its [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] operating system or a separate piece of application software.  As another example, the [[GNU/Linux naming controversy]] is, in part, due to disagreement about the relationship between the [[Linux kernel]] and the operating systems built over this [[Kernel (operating system)|kernel]]. In some types of [[embedded system]]s, the application software and the operating system software may be indistinguishable by the user, as in the case of software used to control a [[Videocassette recorder|VCR]], [[DVD]] player, or [[microwave oven]]. The above definitions may exclude some applications that may exist on some computers in large organizations. For an alternative definition of an app: '' see [[Application portfolio management#Definition of an application|Application Portfolio Management]].''


When used as an adjective, ''application'' is not restricted to mean: of or on application software.<ref name=cutter>{{Cite web|title=Application Package Software: The Promise Vs. Reality | website= Cutter Consortium
===Meaning program and software===
When used as an adjective, ''application'' can have a broader meaning than that described in this article.<ref name=cutter>{{Cite web|title=Application Package Software: The Promise Vs. Reality | website= Cutter Consortium
| last1=Ulrich|first1=William
| last1=Ulrich|first1=William
| date=August 31, 2006 | series=Cutter Benchmark Review  
| date=August 31, 2006 | series=Cutter Benchmark Review  
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| archive-date= 2 February 2016
| archive-date= 2 February 2016
| url-status=live
| url-status=live
|url=https://www.cutter.com/article/application-package-software-promise-vs-reality-393871|access-date=2023-01-12}}</ref> For example, concepts such as [[application programming interface]] (API), [[application server]], [[application virtualization]], [[application lifecycle management]] and [[portable application]] apply to all computer programs alike, not just application software.
|url=https://www.cutter.com/article/application-package-software-promise-vs-reality-393871|access-date=2023-01-12}}</ref> For example, concepts such as [[application programming interface]] (API), [[application server]], [[application virtualization]], [[application lifecycle management]] and [[portable application]] refer to programs and software in general.
 
===Distinction between system and application software===
The distinction between [[system software |system]] and application software is subjective and has been the subject of controversy.<ref name=cutter /> For example, one of the key questions in the ''[[United States v. Microsoft Corp. (2001)|United States v. Microsoft Corp.]]'' [[antitrust]] trial was whether Microsoft's [[Internet Explorer]] [[web browser]] was part of its [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] operating system or a separate piece of application software. As another example, the [[GNU/Linux naming controversy]] is, in part, due to disagreement about the relationship between the [[Linux kernel]] and the operating systems built over this [[Kernel (operating system)|kernel]]. In some types of [[embedded system]]s, the application software and the operating system software may be indistinguishable by the user, as in the case of software used to control a [[Videocassette recorder|VCR]], [[DVD]] player, or [[microwave oven]]. The above definitions may exclude some applications that may exist on some computers in large organizations. For an alternative definition of an app: '' see [[Application portfolio management#Definition of an application|Application Portfolio Management]].''
 
===Killer application===
A [[killer application]] (killer app, coined in the late 1980s) is an application that is so popular that it causes demand for its host [[Computing platform |platform]] to increase.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Dvorak |first=John |author-link=John C. Dvorak |date=1989-07-01 |title=Looking to OS/2 for the next killer app is barking up the wrong tree. Here's where they really come from. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=CbsaONN5y1IC&pg=PP75 |magazine=[[PC Magazine]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=2023-03-25}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/killer-app |title=killer app |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=dictionary.com  |access-date=2023-03-26 |quote=Origin of killer app 1985–1990}}</ref> For example, [[VisiCalc]] was the first modern [[spreadsheet]] software for the [[Apple II]] and helped sell the then-new [[personal computer]]s into offices. For the [[BlackBerry]], it was its [[email]] software.
 
===Software suite===
As [[software suite]] consists of multiple applications bundled together. They usually have related functions, features, and user interfaces, and may be able to interact with each other, e.g. open each other's files. [[Business software|Business applications]] often come in suites, e.g. [[Microsoft Office]], [[LibreOffice]] and [[iWork]], which bundle together a word processor, a spreadsheet, etc.; but suites exist for other purposes, e.g. graphics or music.
 
==Ways to classify==
As there so many applications and since their attributes vary so dramatically, there are many different ways to classify them.
 
===By legal aspects===
Proprietary software is protected under an exclusive copyright, and a [[software license]] grants limited usage rights. Such applications may allow [[Plug-in (computing)|add-ons]] from third parties.
 
[[Free and open-source software]] (FOSS) can be run, distributed, sold, and extended for any purpose. FOSS software released under a [[free license]] may be [[List of countries' copyright lengths |perpetual]] and also [[royalty-free]]. Perhaps, the [[ownership |owner]], the [[holder (law)|holder]] or third-party [[law enforcer |enforcer]] of any right ([[copyright]], [[trademark]], [[patent]], or ''[[ius in re|ius in re aliena]]'') are entitled to add exceptions, limitations, time decays or expiring dates to the license terms of use.
 
[[Public-domain software]] is a type of FOSS that is royalty-free and can be run, distributed, modified, reversed{{explain|date=October 2025}}, republished, or created in derivative works without any [[attribution (copyright)|copyright attribution]] and therefore [[revocation]]. It can even be sold, but without transferring the public domain property to other single subjects. Public-domain software can be released under a (un)licensing legal statement, which enforces those terms and conditions for an indefinite duration (for a lifetime, or forever).
 
=== By platform ===
An application can be categorized by the host [[computing platform| platform]] on which it runs. Notable platforms include [[operating system]] (native), [[web browser]], [[cloud computing]] and [[mobile app |mobile]]. For example a [[web application]] runs in a [[web browser]] whereas a more traditional, native application runs in the environment of a computer's operating system.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Definition of desktop application|url=https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/desktop-application|access-date=2022-01-07|website=PCMAG|language=en}}</ref>


===Killer app===
There has been a contentious debate regarding web applications replacing native applications for many purposes, especially on mobile devices such as [[smartphone]]s and [[Tablet computer|tablet]]s. Web apps have indeed greatly increased in popularity for some uses, but the advantages of applications make them unlikely to disappear soon, if ever. Furthermore, the two can be complementary, and even integrated.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jean-Louis |last=Gassée |title=The Silly Web vs. Native Apps Debate |date=2012-09-17 |url=http://www.thisurlisfalse.com/the-silly-web-vs-native-apps-debate/ |access-date=2013-07-14 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415200141/http://www.thisurlisfalse.com/the-silly-web-vs-native-apps-debate/ |archive-date=2016-04-15 }}</ref><ref name=":0">{{cite news | first = Casey | last = Frechette | title = What journalists need to know about the difference between Web apps and native apps | date = 2013-04-11 | url = https://www.poynter.org/news/what-journalists-need-know-about-difference-between-web-apps-and-native-apps | work = Poynter | access-date = 2017-01-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Andrew |last=Valums |title=Web apps vs desktop apps |date=2010-02-10 |url=http://valums.com/web-apps/ |work=valums.com |access-date=2013-07-14 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130402210926/http://valums.com/web-apps/ |archive-date=2013-04-02 }}</ref>


Sometimes a new and popular application arises that only runs on one [[Computing platform|platform]] that results in increasing the desirability of that platform. This is called a [[killer application]] or ''killer app'', coined in the late 1980s.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Dvorak |first=John |author-link=John C. Dvorak |date=1989-07-01 |title=Looking to OS/2 for the next killer app is barking up the wrong tree. Here's where they really come from. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=CbsaONN5y1IC&pg=PP75 |magazine=[[PC Magazine]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=2023-03-25}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dictionary.com/browse/killer-app |title=killer app |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=dictionary.com  |access-date=2023-03-26 |quote=Origin of killer app 1985–1990}}</ref> For example, [[VisiCalc]] was the first modern [[spreadsheet]] software for the Apple II and helped sell the then-new [[personal computer]]s into offices. For the [[BlackBerry]], it was its [[email]] software.
===Horizontal vs. vertical===
Application software can be seen as either [[horizontal market software |horizontal]] or [[vertical market software |vertical]].<ref>{{cite web|title=What Is a Horizontal Application?|url=http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-horizontal-application.htm}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{cite web|title=What Are Horizontal Services? |url=http://eduunix.ccut.edu.cn/index2/html/java/Que.Special.Edition.Using.Enterprise.JavaBeans.2.0.internal.eBook-LiB/ch21lev1sec1.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131031211544/http://eduunix.ccut.edu.cn/index2/html/java/Que.Special.Edition.Using.Enterprise.JavaBeans.2.0.internal.eBook-LiB/ch21lev1sec1.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-10-31 }}</ref> Horizontal applications are more popular and widespread, because they are general purpose, for example word processors or databases. Vertical applications are [[niche product]]s, designed for a particular type of industry or business, or department within an organization. Integrated suites of software will try to handle every specific aspect possible of, for example, manufacturing or banking worker, accounting, or customer service.


===Platform specific naming===
===By purpose===
There are many types of application software:<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.educba.com/what-is-application-software-its-types/|title=What is Application Software & Its Types {{!}} eduCBA|date=2015-12-21|work=eduCBA|access-date=2017-03-24}}</ref>


Some applications are available for multiple platforms while others only work on one and are thus called, for example, a [[Geographic information system|geography]] application ''for [[Microsoft Windows]]'', or an ''[[Android (operating system)|Android]]'' application for [[Educational software|education]], or a [[Linux gaming|''Linux'' game]].
; [[Enterprise software |Enterprise]]: Addresses the needs of an entire organization's processes and data flows, across several departments, often in a large distributed environment.  Examples include [[enterprise resource planning]] systems, [[customer relationship management]] (CRM) systems, [[Replication (computing)|data replication]] engines, and [[supply chain management software]]. Departmental Software is a sub-type of enterprise software with a focus on smaller organizations or groups within a large organization. (Examples include travel [[expense management]] and IT Helpdesk.)


== Classification ==
; Enterprise infrastructure: Provides common capabilities needed to support enterprise [[software system]]s. (Examples include databases, email servers, and systems for managing networks and security.)
There are many different and alternative ways to classify application software.


From the legal point of view, application software is mainly classified with a [[black box|black-box approach]], about the rights of its [[end user|end-user]]s or [[subscribers]] (with eventual intermediate and tiered subscription levels).
; [[Application platform as a service]] (aPaaS): A [[cloud computing]] service that offers development and deployment environments for application services.


[[Software testing|Software]] applications are also classified with respect to the programming language in which the source code is written or executed, and concerning their purpose and outputs.
; [[Knowledge worker]]: Lets users create and manage information, often for individual projects within a department, in contrast to enterprise management. Examples include [[time management]], [[schedule (workplace)|resource management]], analytical, collaborative and documentation tools. Word processors, [[spreadsheet]]s, email and blog clients, personal information systems, and individual media editors may aid in multiple information worker tasks.


=== By property and use rights ===
; Content access: Used primarily to access content without editing, but may include software that allows for content editing. Such software addresses the needs of individuals and groups to consume [[digital entertainment]] and published digital content. (Examples include [[Media player (application software)|media players]], [[web browser]]s, and help browsers.)
Application software is usually distinguished into two main classes: closed source vs [[open source software]] applications, and [[free software|free]] or [[proprietary software]] applications.


Proprietary software is placed under the exclusive copyright, and a [[software license]] grants limited usage rights. The [[open-closed principle]] states that software may be "open only for extension, but not for modification". Such applications can only get [[Plug-in (computing)|add-ons]] from third parties.
; [[Educational software |Educational]]: Related to content access software, but has the content or features adapted for use by educators or students. For example, it may deliver evaluations (tests), track progress through material, or include collaborative capabilities.


[[Free and open-source software|Free and open-source software (FOSS)]] shall be run, distributed, sold, or extended for any purpose, and -being open- shall be modified or [[reverse engineering|reversed]] in the same way.
; [[Simulation software| Simulation]]: Simulates physical or abstract systems for either research, training, or entertainment purposes.


FOSS software applications released under a [[free license]] may be [[List of countries' copyright lengths|perpetual]] and also [[royalty-free]]. Perhaps, the [[ownership|owner]], the [[holder (law)|holder]] or third-party [[law enforcer|enforcer]] of any right ([[copyright]], [[trademark]], [[patent]], or ''[[ius in re|ius in re aliena]]'') are entitled to add exceptions, limitations, time decays or expiring dates to the license terms of use.
; Media development: Generates print and electronic media for others to consume, most often in a commercial or educational setting. This includes [[Graphic art software|graphic-art software]], desktop publishing software, multimedia development software, HTML editors, digital-animation editors, digital audio and video composition, and many others.<ref>Campbell-Kelly, Martin; Aspray, William (1996). ''Computer: A History of the Information Machine''. New York: Basic Books. {{ISBN|0-465-02990-6}}.</ref>


[[Public-domain software]] is a type of FOSS which is royalty-free and - openly or reservedly- can be run, distributed, modified, reversed, republished, or created in derivative works without any [[attribution (copyright)|copyright attribution]] and therefore [[revocation]]. It can even be sold, but without transferring the public domain property to other single subjects. Public-domain SW can be released under a (un)licensing legal statement, which enforces those terms and conditions for an indefinite duration (for a lifetime, or forever).
; Engineering: Used in developing hardware and software products. This includes [[computer-aided design]] (CAD), [[computer-aided engineering]] (CAE), computer language editing and compiling tools, [[integrated development environment]]s, and application programmer interfaces.


=== By coding language ===
; Entertainment: Refers to video games, screen savers, programs to display motion pictures or play recorded music, and other forms of entertainment which can be experienced through the use of a computing device.
Since the development and near-universal adoption of the [[World Wide Web|web]], an important distinction that has emerged, has been between [[web application]]s &mdash; written with [[HTML]], [[JavaScript]] and other web-native technologies and typically requiring one to be online and running a [[web browser]] &mdash; and the more traditional native applications written in whatever languages are available for one's particular [[Types of computers|type of computer]]. There has been a contentious debate in the computing community regarding web applications replacing native applications for many purposes, especially on mobile devices such as [[smartphone]]s and [[Tablet computer|tablet]]s. Web apps have indeed greatly increased in popularity for some uses, but the advantages of applications make them unlikely to disappear soon, if ever. Furthermore, the two can be complementary, and even integrated.<ref>{{cite news|first=Jean-Louis |last=Gassée |title=The Silly Web vs. Native Apps Debate |date=2012-09-17 |url=http://www.thisurlisfalse.com/the-silly-web-vs-native-apps-debate/ |access-date=2013-07-14 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415200141/http://www.thisurlisfalse.com/the-silly-web-vs-native-apps-debate/ |archive-date=2016-04-15 }}</ref><ref name=":0">{{cite news | first = Casey | last = Frechette | title = What journalists need to know about the difference between Web apps and native apps | date = 2013-04-11 | url = https://www.poynter.org/news/what-journalists-need-know-about-difference-between-web-apps-and-native-apps | work = Poynter | access-date = 2017-01-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Andrew |last=Valums |title=Web apps vs desktop apps |date=2010-02-10 |url=http://valums.com/web-apps/ |work=valums.com |access-date=2013-07-14 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130402210926/http://valums.com/web-apps/ |archive-date=2013-04-02 }}</ref>


=== By purpose and output ===
==Taxonomy==
Application software can also be seen as being either [[horizontal market software|horizontal]] or [[vertical market software|vertical]].<ref>{{cite web|title=What Is a Horizontal Application?|url=http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-horizontal-application.htm}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{cite web|title=What Are Horizontal Services? |url=http://eduunix.ccut.edu.cn/index2/html/java/Que.Special.Edition.Using.Enterprise.JavaBeans.2.0.internal.eBook-LiB/ch21lev1sec1.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131031211544/http://eduunix.ccut.edu.cn/index2/html/java/Que.Special.Edition.Using.Enterprise.JavaBeans.2.0.internal.eBook-LiB/ch21lev1sec1.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-10-31 }}</ref>  Horizontal applications are more popular and widespread, because they are general purpose, for example word processors or databases. Vertical applications are [[niche product]]s, designed for a particular type of industry or business, or department within an organization. Integrated suites of software will try to handle every specific aspect possible of, for example, manufacturing or banking worker, accounting, or customer service.
This section is a [[taxonomy]] of kinds of applications. This organization is but one of many different ways to organize them. A kind is included in only one category even if it logically fits in multiple.


There are many types of application software:<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.educba.com/what-is-application-software-its-types/|title=What is Application Software & Its Types {{!}} eduCBA|date=2015-12-21|work=eduCBA|access-date=2017-03-24}}</ref>
=== General-purpose ===
* [[Spreadsheet]]
* [[Web browser]]


* An ''[[Software suite|application suite]]'' consists of multiple applications bundled together. They usually have related functions, features, and user interfaces, and may be able to interact with each other, e.g. open each other's files. [[Business software|Business applications]] often come in suites, e.g. [[Microsoft Office]], [[LibreOffice]] and [[iWork]], which bundle together a word processor, a spreadsheet, etc.; but suites exist for other purposes, e.g. graphics or music.
=== Communication ===
* ''[[Enterprise software]]'' addresses the needs of an entire organization's processes and data flows, across several departments, often in a large distributed environment.  Examples include [[enterprise resource planning]] systems, [[customer relationship management]] (CRM) systems, [[Replication (computing)|data replication]] engines, and [[supply chain management software]]. Departmental Software is a sub-type of enterprise software with a focus on smaller organizations or groups within a large organization. (Examples include travel [[expense management]] and IT Helpdesk.)
* [[Email]]
* ''Enterprise infrastructure software'' provides common capabilities needed to support enterprise [[software system]]s.  (Examples include databases, email servers, and systems for managing networks and security.)
* [[Presentation software]]
*''[[Platform as a service|Application platform as a service (aPaaS)]]'' is a [[cloud computing]] service that offers development and deployment environments for application services.
* ''[[Knowledge worker|Information worker]] software'' lets users create and manage information, often for individual projects within a department, in contrast to enterprise management. Examples include [[time management]], [[schedule (workplace)|resource management]], analytical, collaborative and documentation tools. Word processors, [[spreadsheet]]s, email and blog clients, personal information systems, and individual media editors may aid in multiple information worker tasks.
* ''Content access software'' is used primarily to access content without editing, but may include software that allows for content editing. Such software addresses the needs of individuals and groups to consume [[digital entertainment]] and published digital content. (Examples include [[Media player (application software)|media players]], [[web browser]]s, and help browsers.)
* ''[[Educational software]]'' is related to content access software, but has the content or features adapted for use by educators or students. For example, it may deliver evaluations (tests), track progress through material, or include collaborative capabilities.
* ''[[Simulation software]]'' simulates physical or abstract systems for either research, training, or entertainment purposes.
* ''Media development software'' generates print and electronic media for others to consume, most often in a commercial or educational setting. This includes [[Graphic art software|graphic-art software]], desktop publishing software, multimedia development software, HTML editors, digital-animation editors, digital audio and video composition, and many others.<ref>Campbell-Kelly, Martin; Aspray, William (1996). ''Computer: A History of the Information Machine''. New York: Basic Books. {{ISBN|0-465-02990-6}}.</ref>
* ''Product engineering software'' is used in developing hardware and software products. This includes [[computer-aided design]] (CAD), [[computer-aided engineering]] (CAE), computer language editing and compiling tools, [[integrated development environment]]s, and application programmer interfaces.
* ''Entertainment Software'' can refer to video games, screen savers, programs to display motion pictures or play recorded music, and other forms of entertainment which can be experienced through the use of a computing device.


=== By platform ===
=== Documentation ===
Applications can also be classified by [[computing platform]]s such as a desktop application for a particular [[operating system]],<ref>{{Cite web|title=Definition of desktop application|url=https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/desktop-application|access-date=2022-01-07|website=PCMAG|language=en}}</ref> delivery network such as in [[cloud computing]] and [[Web 2.0]] applications, or delivery devices such as [[mobile app]]s for [[mobile device]]s.
* [[Desktop publishing software]]
* [[Document automation]]
* [[Text editor]]
* [[Word processor]]


The operating system itself can be considered application software when performing simple calculating, measuring, rendering, and word processing tasks not used to control hardware via a [[command-line interface]] or [[graphical user interface]]. This does not include application software bundled within operating systems such as a [[software calculator]] or [[text editor]].
=== Data management ===
* [[Contact manager]]
* [[Database management system]]
* [[Digital asset management]]
* [[Document management]]
* [[Geographic information system]]


=== Information worker software ===
=== Resource management ===
* [[Accounting software]]
* [[Digital calendar]]
* Data management
* [[Employee scheduling software]]
** [[Contact manager]]
** [[Spreadsheet]]
** [[Database software]]
* Documentation
** [[Document automation]]
** [[Word processor]]
** [[Desktop publishing software]]
** Diagramming software
** [[Presentation software]]
** [[Email]]
** Blog software
* [[Enterprise resource planning]]
* [[Enterprise resource planning]]
* [[:Category:Financial software|Financial software]]
** [[Banking software]]
** [[Clearing (finance)|Clearing systems]]
** [[Accounting software|Financial accounting software]]
** [[Financial software]]
* [[Field service management]]
* [[Field service management]]
**[[Workforce management#Workforce management software|Workforce management software]]
** [[Workforce management#Workforce management software| Workforce management software]]
* [[Project management software]]
* [[Project management software]]
** [[Calendaring software]]
** [[Employee scheduling software]]
** [[Workflow software]]
* [[Reservation systems]]
* [[Reservation systems]]
* [[Workflow software]]


=== Entertainment software ===
=== [[Financial software]] ===
* [[Screen saver]]s
{{see |:Category:Financial software}}
* [[Video game]]s
* [[Banking software]]
** [[Arcade video game]]s
* [[Clearing (finance)|Clearing systems]]
** [[Console game]]s
* [[Accounting software]]
** [[Mobile game]]s
** [[Personal computer game]]s
* [[Software art]]
** [[Demo (computer programming)|Demo]]
*** [[64K intro]]
 
=== Educational software ===
{{main|List of educational software}}


* Classroom management
=== Educational ===
* [[Reference software]]
{{see |List of educational software}}
* Sales readiness software
* Survey management
* Encyclopedia software


=== Enterprise infrastructure software ===
=== [[Video game]] ===
* [[Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations]] (AIOps)
* [[Arcade video game]]
* Business [[workflow]] software
* [[Console game]]
* [[Database management system]] (DBMS)
* [[Mobile game]]
* [[Digital asset management]] (DAM) software
* [[Personal computer game]]
* [[Document management]] software
* [[Simulation game]]
* [[Geographic information system]] (GIS)
** [[Vehicle simulation game]]


=== Simulation software ===
=== [[Computer simulation| Simulation]] ===
* [[Computer simulator]]s
* [[Computational science]]
** [[Computational science|Scientific simulator]]s
* [[Social simulation]]
** [[Social simulator]]s
* [[Military simulation]]
** [[Military simulation|Battlefield simulator]]s
* [[Flight simulator]]
** Emergency simulators
* [[Driving simulator]]
** Vehicle simulators
*** [[Flight simulator]]s
*** [[Driving simulator]]s
** [[Simulation game]]s
*** [[Vehicle simulation game]]s


=== Media development software ===
=== Media ===
* [[3D computer graphics software]]
* [[3D computer graphics software]]
* [[Animation software]]
* [[Animation software]]
* [[Demoscene]]
* [[Graphic art software]]
* [[Graphic art software]]
** [[Raster graphics editor]]
** [[Raster graphics editor]]
Line 155: Line 144:
* [[Music sequencer]]
* [[Music sequencer]]
** [[Scorewriter]]
** [[Scorewriter]]
* [[HTML editor]]
* [[Software art]]
* [[Game development tool]]
 
=== [[Hardware engineering]] ===
* [[Computer-aided design]]
* [[Computer-aided engineering]]
* [[Computer-aided manufacturing]]
* [[Finite element analysis]]


=== Product engineering software ===
===[[Software development]]===
* [[Engineering|Hardware engineering]]
Software designed and intended for software development is classified as application software even though utility software is commonly used in the process of developing software. Categories of software development application software include:
** [[Computer-aided engineering]]
** [[Computer-aided design|Computer-aided design (CAD)]]
** [[Computer-aided manufacturing|Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)]]
** [[Finite element analysis]]


=== [[Software engineering]]===
* [[Compiler|Compiler software]]
* [[Integrated development environment]]
* [[Integrated development environment]]
** [[Compiler]]
** [[Linker (computing)|Linker]]
** [[Debugger]]
* [[Version control]]
* [[Game development tool]]
* [[Game development tool]]
* [[HTML editor]]
* [[License manager]]
* [[License manager]]
* [[Source code editor]]
* [[Version control]]


== See also ==
== See also ==
* {{annotated link|Software development}}
* {{annotated link |Mobile app}}
* {{annotated link|Mobile app}}
* {{annotated link |Server (computing)}}
* {{annotated link|Web application}}
* {{annotated link |Software development}}
* {{annotated link|Server application}}
* {{annotated link |Super-app}}
* {{annotated link|Super-app}}
* {{annotated link |Web application}}


== References ==
== References ==

Latest revision as of 12:40, 14 December 2025

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File:Windows 10 Calculator.png
A calculator application on Windows 10

Application software is software that is intended for end-user use

  1. REDIRECT Template:En dash

Template:R protected not operating, administering or programming a computer. An application (app, application program, software application) is any program that can be categorized as application software.[1]Template:Ref RFC Application is a subjective classification that is often used to differentiate from system and utility software.[2]

The abbreviation app became popular with the 2008 introduction of the iOS App Store, to refer to applications for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Later, with the release of the Mac App Store in 2010 and the Windows Store in 2011, it began to be used to refer to end-user software in general, regardless of platform.[3]

Applications may be bundled with the computer and its system software or published separately. Applications may be proprietary or open-source.[4]

Terminology

Meaning program and software

When used as an adjective, application can have a broader meaning than that described in this article.[5] For example, concepts such as application programming interface (API), application server, application virtualization, application lifecycle management and portable application refer to programs and software in general.

Distinction between system and application software

The distinction between system and application software is subjective and has been the subject of controversy.[5] For example, one of the key questions in the United States v. Microsoft Corp. antitrust trial was whether Microsoft's Internet Explorer web browser was part of its Windows operating system or a separate piece of application software. As another example, the GNU/Linux naming controversy is, in part, due to disagreement about the relationship between the Linux kernel and the operating systems built over this kernel. In some types of embedded systems, the application software and the operating system software may be indistinguishable by the user, as in the case of software used to control a VCR, DVD player, or microwave oven. The above definitions may exclude some applications that may exist on some computers in large organizations. For an alternative definition of an app: see Application Portfolio Management.

Killer application

A killer application (killer app, coined in the late 1980s) is an application that is so popular that it causes demand for its host platform to increase.[6][7] For example, VisiCalc was the first modern spreadsheet software for the Apple II and helped sell the then-new personal computers into offices. For the BlackBerry, it was its email software.

Software suite

As software suite consists of multiple applications bundled together. They usually have related functions, features, and user interfaces, and may be able to interact with each other, e.g. open each other's files. Business applications often come in suites, e.g. Microsoft Office, LibreOffice and iWork, which bundle together a word processor, a spreadsheet, etc.; but suites exist for other purposes, e.g. graphics or music.

Ways to classify

As there so many applications and since their attributes vary so dramatically, there are many different ways to classify them.

By legal aspects

Proprietary software is protected under an exclusive copyright, and a software license grants limited usage rights. Such applications may allow add-ons from third parties.

Free and open-source software (FOSS) can be run, distributed, sold, and extended for any purpose. FOSS software released under a free license may be perpetual and also royalty-free. Perhaps, the owner, the holder or third-party enforcer of any right (copyright, trademark, patent, or ius in re aliena) are entitled to add exceptions, limitations, time decays or expiring dates to the license terms of use.

Public-domain software is a type of FOSS that is royalty-free and can be run, distributed, modified, reversedTemplate:Explain, republished, or created in derivative works without any copyright attribution and therefore revocation. It can even be sold, but without transferring the public domain property to other single subjects. Public-domain software can be released under a (un)licensing legal statement, which enforces those terms and conditions for an indefinite duration (for a lifetime, or forever).

By platform

An application can be categorized by the host platform on which it runs. Notable platforms include operating system (native), web browser, cloud computing and mobile. For example a web application runs in a web browser whereas a more traditional, native application runs in the environment of a computer's operating system.[8]

There has been a contentious debate regarding web applications replacing native applications for many purposes, especially on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Web apps have indeed greatly increased in popularity for some uses, but the advantages of applications make them unlikely to disappear soon, if ever. Furthermore, the two can be complementary, and even integrated.[9][10][11]

Horizontal vs. vertical

Application software can be seen as either horizontal or vertical.[12][13] Horizontal applications are more popular and widespread, because they are general purpose, for example word processors or databases. Vertical applications are niche products, designed for a particular type of industry or business, or department within an organization. Integrated suites of software will try to handle every specific aspect possible of, for example, manufacturing or banking worker, accounting, or customer service.

By purpose

There are many types of application software:[14]

Enterprise
Addresses the needs of an entire organization's processes and data flows, across several departments, often in a large distributed environment. Examples include enterprise resource planning systems, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, data replication engines, and supply chain management software. Departmental Software is a sub-type of enterprise software with a focus on smaller organizations or groups within a large organization. (Examples include travel expense management and IT Helpdesk.)
Enterprise infrastructure
Provides common capabilities needed to support enterprise software systems. (Examples include databases, email servers, and systems for managing networks and security.)
Application platform as a service (aPaaS)
A cloud computing service that offers development and deployment environments for application services.
Knowledge worker
Lets users create and manage information, often for individual projects within a department, in contrast to enterprise management. Examples include time management, resource management, analytical, collaborative and documentation tools. Word processors, spreadsheets, email and blog clients, personal information systems, and individual media editors may aid in multiple information worker tasks.
Content access
Used primarily to access content without editing, but may include software that allows for content editing. Such software addresses the needs of individuals and groups to consume digital entertainment and published digital content. (Examples include media players, web browsers, and help browsers.)
Educational
Related to content access software, but has the content or features adapted for use by educators or students. For example, it may deliver evaluations (tests), track progress through material, or include collaborative capabilities.
Simulation
Simulates physical or abstract systems for either research, training, or entertainment purposes.
Media development
Generates print and electronic media for others to consume, most often in a commercial or educational setting. This includes graphic-art software, desktop publishing software, multimedia development software, HTML editors, digital-animation editors, digital audio and video composition, and many others.[15]
Engineering
Used in developing hardware and software products. This includes computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided engineering (CAE), computer language editing and compiling tools, integrated development environments, and application programmer interfaces.
Entertainment
Refers to video games, screen savers, programs to display motion pictures or play recorded music, and other forms of entertainment which can be experienced through the use of a computing device.

Taxonomy

This section is a taxonomy of kinds of applications. This organization is but one of many different ways to organize them. A kind is included in only one category even if it logically fits in multiple.

General-purpose

Communication

Documentation

Data management

Resource management

Financial software

Template:See

Educational

Template:See

Video game

Simulation

Media

Hardware engineering

Software development

Software designed and intended for software development is classified as application software even though utility software is commonly used in the process of developing software. Categories of software development application software include:

See also

References

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  15. ↑ Campbell-Kelly, Martin; Aspray, William (1996). Computer: A History of the Information Machine. New York: Basic Books. Template:ISBN.

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External links

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