Women Safety Software Market

Market Overview

The global women safety software market size is projected to register a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period (2024-2032). The main driver of the global women's safety software market is the increasing demand to address the rising incidents of violent rapes, molestation, and abuse of women in various industries worldwide.

Women safety software is a mobile application designed to provide security help. Although many personal security programs are free, some options follow a freemium model, where additional functionality can be unlocked through in-app purchases. Additionally, some personal security apps are marketed and sold as premium applications. These features encompass several communication methods, such as text messages, emails, instant messaging, and even tweets to close acquaintances, along with the ability to share approximate locations or broadcast a loud and intermittent "shrill whistle" as a rape alarm. The demand for such software has surged in response to the rise in rape cases and subsequent protests against "violent rapes, molestation, and mistreatment of women." Technology, particularly social and mobile instruments, significantly enhances personal security through GPS, SMS, video, warnings, alarms, and other technologies that enable users to alert individuals and friends in need.

Additionally, the dynamic shifts and increasing advancements in the software sector are expected to drive the expansion of the women's safety software market in the foreseeable future. The increasing demand for women's safety software in the medical sector is anticipated to significantly contribute to the market's growth in the coming years. 

Highlights

• Android generates the highest revenue share based on product. 
• Private users account for the largest market share by end users.

Market Dynamics

Global Women Safety Software Market Drivers

Increasing Awareness of Women's Health Issues

There has been a significant increase in awareness and acknowledgment of the distinct difficulties and requirements that women confront globally, leading to a greater emphasis on addressing women's health concerns. Within this framework, the advancement and acceptance of women's safety software have become essential in advocating for and protecting the health and welfare of women. 
 
Additionally, the growth of the women's safety software market is significantly influenced by the increasing awareness of women's health issues. The increased consciousness of matters such as domestic abuse, sexual assault, reproductive health, and healthcare accessibility has generated a need for technological innovations that can enable women to safeguard themselves and seek help when necessary. Approximately 736 million women worldwide, which is equivalent to one in three women, have experienced physical and sexual violence at least once in their lifetime. According to a recent study published in The Lancet Global Health, it is estimated that a minimum of 40 million women face a chronic health issue as a result of childbirth each year.

Furthermore, women's safety software comprises personal safety apps, emergency response systems, and health-tracking platforms designed to cater to women's unique requirements and concerns. These technologies provide functionalities such as GPS tracking, instantaneous communication with emergency services, and access to resources and support networks.

Global Women Safety Software Market Restraint

Cultural and Social Barriers

Cultural and social obstacles can significantly hinder the progress of women's safety software in multiple ways. Firstly, women may be discouraged from actively exploring or using such technology due to firmly embedded gender stereotypes that exist in society, which dictate expectations about their roles and skills. Further, societal norms that place importance on privacy or limit women's use of digital devices may hinder their ability to utilize safety software successfully. 

Moreover, the cultural shame associated with conversations about violence against women may impede open debates regarding the significance of these technologies, thereby diminishing the demand and investment in corresponding solutions. Lastly, in male-dominated communities, the authority to make decisions is typically held by men, which can result in a need for more assistance or financial resources for endeavors focused on addressing women's safety issues. Therefore, these ideas impede the expansion of the market. 

Global Women Safety Software Market Opportunity

Development of Women-Specific Therapies

Pharmaceutical and biotechnology businesses create specialized solutions to address the unique health requirements of women to advance the women's safety software industry. Possible solutions encompass mobile applications, wearable gadgets, or internet-based platforms specifically developed to tackle issues about women's health, such as tracking menstrual cycles, monitoring reproductive health, and including safety measures for personal security.

Additionally, these companies develop specific treatments and support systems that enable women to take proactive control of their health by addressing problems such as menopause, endometriosis, PCOS, and gynecological cancers. In addition, these companies integrate functionalities to improve women's safety into their current goods or create separate safety applications specifically tailored for women. The safety features encompass emergency alarms, location monitoring, and options for reporting incidents of harassment or assault. PCOS Challenge has partnered with Medisafe, the top global Medication Management Platform, to provide a high-quality mobile app to PCOS Challenge users at no cost, ensuring complete anonymity.

Furthermore, in 2020, the mUzima app was developed to effectively manage patient data and conduct screenings for early cancer detection. mUzima is a mobile application that enables healthcare professionals to gather and oversee patient information using tablet devices. The application can function without an internet connection and securely maintains the information. It is also synchronized with a central Open Medical Record System (OpenMRS) server, enabling several hospitals and health centers to access and share the same data. The effect of mUzima has been extraordinary. According to OpenMRS data, between July 2020 and December 2022, a total of 167,715 women had cervical cancer screening, while 89,449 women were checked for breast cancer.

A further illustration of measures taken to ensure the safety and security of women is the bSafe application. It serves as a deterrent for crimes like violence, sexual assaults, and rape and also offers evidence in cases that have already taken place. By including voice activation, live streaming, audio/video recording, fake call functionality, follow-me features, and location and tracking capabilities, we guarantee the constant safety of women. The application may be found in both iOS and Android app stores.

Regional Analysis

North America Dominates the Global Market

The global women safety software market analysis is conducted across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

North America is the most significant global women's safety software market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% over the forecast period. Multiple reasons predominantly influence the North American market for women's safety software. Primarily, the rising consciousness and apprehension over women's safety concerns have resulted in an escalating need for technical innovations that might augment individual protection. Given the increasing frequency of occurrences involving harassment, assault, and violence targeting women, there is a greater demand for tools that enable women to defend themselves. For example, in the United States, 43.9% of women encounter sexual assault that is not classified as rape, whereas 19.3% experience rape at least once in their lifetime. During their lives, 81% of women and 43% of males indicate that they have encountered various instances of sexual harassment and assault. 

Additionally, technological progress, notably in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and mobile applications, has enabled the creation of inventive safety measures designed expressly for women. These technologies facilitate functions such as live location tracking, emergency alarm systems, and virtual guardianship, which improve women's capacity to respond to dangerous situations effectively. North America's most innovative enterprises rely on SolusGuard to ensure the connectivity and safety of its personnel. The SolusGuard Mobile app is specifically created for individuals who work in solitary or unexpected settings. It transforms a mobile phone into an effective distress signal and a dependable monitoring device.

Furthermore, the industry has experienced growth as a result of government programs and laws specifically targeting gender-based violence and the promotion of women's safety. The U.S. Government recently published the 2023 U.S. Strategy and National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) to give priority to gender equity and equality in the establishment of lasting peace globally. The plan also seeks to enhance the involvement of women in responding to and recovering from conflicts and crises. The increasing prevalence of smartphones and wearable devices among women contributes significantly to the expansion of the industry. These devices function as platforms for accessing and using safety applications, hence enhancing the accessibility and usability of the women's safety software industry. 

Asia Pacific is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 6.2% over the forecast period. Various pivotal elements propel the Asia-Pacific market for women's safety software. The rising knowledge and concern regarding women's safety issues in the region have driven the desire for technological solutions to improve personal security. Furthermore, the proliferation of smartphones and the affordability of internet connectivity have contributed significantly to the development and accessibility of women's safety applications.

Moreover, implementing government initiatives and regulations prioritizing women's safety and empowerment has created a favorable climate for the expansion of this sector. Women throughout India experience assault and harassment, which significantly affects their ability to access possibilities for progress and socio-economic stability. According to the 5th cycle of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), 30% of women in India aged 15-49 had been subjected to physical, sexual, or domestic violence. The central and state governments in India prioritize the safety and security of women as a paramount concern.

In addition, several state-level initiatives have been implemented to oversee and monitor the prompt settlement of crimes committed against women. Several advanced emergency response systems have been designed specifically for the police to assist women in situations of crisis promptly. As part of the #CallItOut because #ItsNotOK campaign, we have selected best practices at the national and state levels to showcase innovative approaches, promote knowledge sharing, and coordinate efforts to combat harassment against women. These factors collectively drive Asia's women's safety software market's expansion.

Europe holds a significant market share. Various significant elements propel the European market for women's safety software. The growing knowledge and worries about women's safety have resulted in a higher need for technical solutions that provide advanced security features. Moreover, technological progress, such as incorporating functionalities like live tracking, emergency notifications, and geofencing abilities, is driving the acceptance of software solutions to enhance women's safety. In addition, the increasing rates of smartphone adoption and the widespread use of mobile applications for personal safety contribute to the market's growth. 

Furthermore, the market dynamics are influenced by the increasing investments from both public and private sectors in research and development efforts aimed at innovating and enhancing the efficacy of women's safety software. Collectively, these factors contribute to the growth of the women's safety software market in Europe.

Segmental Analysis

The global women safety software market is segmented based on product and end-user.

Based on the product, the market is segmented into Android and iOS. 

Android segment dominated in 2023. Android plays a crucial role in the women's safety software market due to its widespread adoption and accessibility. Many women's safety apps are developed specifically for Android, offering features like emergency alerts, location tracking, and self-defense tutorials. Android's flexibility allows developers to create innovative solutions tailored to address various safety concerns faced by women. Additionally, the availability of these apps on the Google Play Store makes them easily accessible to a large user base. Overall, Android is a prominent platform for empowering women with tools to enhance their safety and security.

The iOS segment is the fastest growing. iOS plays a crucial role in the women's safety software market by offering a platform for developers to design and distribute applications specifically designed to address women's safety issues. These applications can provide functionalities such as emergency notifications, GPS monitoring, self-defense lessons, and direct communication with law enforcement. iOS, a widely used operating system renowned for its robust security and dependability, offers a reliable platform for users to access and employ safety apps, enhancing women's overall safety and security.

Based on end users, the market is bifurcated into Private Users and Commercial Users.

The private users segment dominated in 2023. Private user messages are exclusively available to the user and not to any other individuals. The private user category is expected to grow substantially over the projection period. Government authorities utilize monitoring and tracking software to enhance women's safety, which will drive the growth of the worldwide women's safety software market. 

The commercial users segment is the fastest growing. Commercial users are crucial in the women safety software market since they stimulate innovation, investment, and the adoption of such software. Their participation guarantees the creation of solid and customized solutions to address the varied requirements of women. Commercial entities allocate resources towards research and development to improve the functionality and accessibility of safety software, hence increasing its effectiveness and user-friendliness.

Furthermore, commercial users play a crucial role in expanding the market by generating awareness, implementing marketing strategies, and establishing distribution channels. This ultimately leads to a broader dissemination of these solutions to a larger target audience. Their active involvement promotes rivalry, resulting in ongoing technological enhancement and progress to ensure women's protection.

Recent Developments

• December 2023– Researchers at the University of Bath introduced a groundbreaking smartwatch application called Epowar, explicitly designed for women's safety. This program utilizes heart rate and body motion monitoring to detect signs of distress, and in the event of an assault, it automatically sends an emergency warning.
• February 2024– Safetipin is a well-known application that guarantees the protection of women. This application is integrated with GPS tracking to provide emergency contact numbers and directions to secure locations to ensure the security of women. This application also marks the secure regions and their corresponding safety ratings as places to go in case of any trouble. In addition to English, this application also functions in Hindi and Spanish.