Mental health care delivery faces challenges globally, with significant disparities between high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). While mobile health apps (MHapps) offer innovative solutions for mental health care, their efficacy varies by context. In HICs, MHapps effectively complement traditional care due to better digital infrastructure and the continuous establishment of regulations. However, in LMICs, factors like limited internet access, lower smartphone penetration and cultural barriers hinder their effectiveness. This paper evaluates the potential of MHapps to bridge mental health care gaps in LMICs, emphasizing the need for more regulated, culturally adaptable, functionally accessible and evidence-based digital solutions. Addressing these challenges can enhance the global impact of MHapps and improve the efficacy they have towards public care.