Cellphone apps are the next big thing in retail. Take a look at how these four retailers used mobile apps to rake in millions in revenue.

As every retailer works to keep up with changing markets, technologies and customer needs, one thing has become clear: Mobile applications are crucial.

Now, customers want to click a button any time of day and shop.

But an app that just allows customers to shop might not be enough.

According to Retail Digital, four companies mastered the smartphone this year – and saw sales spike as a result.

Take a look at what they did:

• Starbucks: The coffee mogul created an app that allowed customers to use a “touch to pay” system. Shoppers hold the app’s barcode up at a scanner to pay for lattes and bagels. The result? Over 3 million customers have paid for their drinks with the application.
• QVC: The home-shopping channel created an iPhone application that lets customers click through thousands of products. There’s also an email function so shoppers can share their purchases with others.
• Amazon: This retailer made an app store for Android that allows customers to preview applications before buying them via a Test Drive feature.
• Debenhams: Here’s a company that attacked mobile shopping by creating apps for all major smartphone platforms. Among the features: Barcode scanners, price checkers and reviews.

Bottom line: Retailers who add a new spin to shopping apps see huge results.

Tags: app, mobile, mobile device, Retail Digital, shopping, spending, technology