Abstract: This paper provides the findings of a comparative study conducted in the field of educational apps. The authors designed several of their own apps for mobile devices which focus on different aspects of learning with reference to learning theory. After clarifying the term app and especially educational app we will present typical elements of educational apps. An illustration of the results of this qualitative study is a core aspect of the text and focuses on the various elements and learning scenarios. In this study we do both, underpinning the typical elements and focus on modern interaction with the learner and between learners. Therefore, we analyze both own developments as well as high rated apps that represent interesting educational aspects. The article ends with future challenges and shows which opportunities exist for a new generation of learning apps.