With the average user interacting with about nine to ten apps a day, companies are wise to create functional mobile apps to complement their existing digital presence. However, many companies make the mistake of creating an app that’s just an extension of their desktop website and don’t consider special features that might make the mobile user experience much better.
But if companies want to increase not only customer retention, but also overall customer satisfaction in the long run, they may want to consider incorporating some of the following features, as recommended by the members of Council for Young Entrepreneurs. Even including just one of these nine features can significantly improve your app’s user experience.
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1. Multiple payment options
You don’t want a mobile user to abandon their shopping cart because they can’t find their preferred payment option. Your mobile app should include most mobile payment options, including Apple Pay and Google Pay to cover all your bases. When you include multiple payment options, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need top-notch security like two-factor authentication. In addition, you need to make it easier for customers to complete the checkout process and integrate it with your brand identity. Keep in mind that you want payment options that grow with your business. – Shu Saito, Spiro Pure
2. Integration with wearable devices
There are so many features that mobile apps can take advantage of, but if I had to choose one, it would be integration with wearable devices. Imagine how cool it would be to switch seamlessly between your phone and your smartwatch or fitness tracker without missing a beat. In addition, it would allow for even more personalized experiences and the ability to track and analyze data across multiple devices. But it’s not all about the cool factor. Integration with wearable devices can also be an important factor in improving retention and overall customer satisfaction. When you provide a more seamless experience, users are more likely to stick around and use the app. – Abhijeet Kaldate, Astra WordPress theme
3. A battery usage setting
An important feature that many apps don’t have is a power saving or battery usage setting that puts less strain on your phone’s battery. It doesn’t matter how clean your interface is or how useful the notification settings are if your app is constantly draining the battery. Some apps are resource intensive and every time you open them you almost see the battery bar go to zero. Not only is this frustrating for the end user, but it will likely push them to stop using your app altogether. Since users often have many apps running in the background, it is important to keep limited resources in mind. Design your app to use less resources and implement a power saving mode so they can continue using your app right away or in the background without draining the battery over time. – Shan Conrad, Number2 CPA Exam Resources
4. Personalization
I think more apps should include personalization. By adapting to users’ preferences, habits and needs, apps can create a more meaningful and enjoyable experience. If an app really “gets” you, you’re more likely to stick around and use it, right? Including personalization features could mean creating custom content feeds, providing personalized recommendations, or even tweaking the app’s UI based on a user’s behavior. The key is to leverage data and machine learning to deliver a tailored experience that resonates with each user, making them feel seen and understood. With personalization as a core feature, your app is better equipped to impress users and keep them coming back for more, ultimately increasing customer satisfaction and retention. – Kelly Richardson, Infobrandz
5. Night Mode
Mobile apps must have a dark mode or night mode, which changes the display settings from white to black or a dark color and the text and icons from dark to light. This feature can reduce eye strain, correct sleep patterns, and make the app more accessible to users with visual impairments. By including dark mode, mobile apps can provide a more comfortable and accessible user experience, which can lead to increased retention and customer satisfaction. Users are more likely to continue using an app that is easy on their eyes and does not cause discomfort or fatigue. Moreover, this feature can also help attract new users who prioritize accessibility and user experience when choosing the apps to use. – Kazi Mamun, CANSOFT
6. Community Access
I think mobile apps should have the ability to access an online community built around the app or the solutions offered by the company. This allows users to connect with like-minded people, communicate with each other and share their experiences. And since users can communicate with others and find solutions to their problems, your reps are freed up and can focus on things that matter. Making your community accessible through your app enables a seamless user experience and helps you foster greater engagement, which in turn improves customer satisfaction and positively impacts your retention. – Stephanie Wells, Formidable shapes
7. Offline functionality
As a tech founder, I’ve seen a lot of mobile apps come and go. One feature that is often overlooked but can make a huge difference in the user experience is offline functionality. When you allow users to access certain parts of the app without an internet connection, they can continue to access and use the app even in areas with limited connectivity or no data plan. Picture this: you’re on a long flight, no Wi-Fi in sight, but you still want to use your favorite app. With offline functionality you can! This not only increases user satisfaction, but can also increase retention rates. So if you want to stand out in a crowded market, consider adding this handy feature to your app. – Adam Preiser, WPCrafter
8. Quick Resume
I think more mobile apps should include a quick resume feature. There are quite a few productivity apps and games I’ve used lately that restart every time you exit the window. I favor a quick resume feature as it would encourage people to continue their interaction even if they get distracted and open your app hours or even days later. – Chris Christopher, Monster Insights
9. In-app support
Mobile apps that offer more accessible customer support options, such as in-app chat support or the ability to contact support directly from the app, can significantly improve retention and overall customer satisfaction. Users appreciate being able to get help quickly and easily when they need it, which can help build trust and loyalty. In addition, fast and effective customer support can help prevent negative ratings and feedback, which can significantly impact an app’s reputation and success. In addition, having more accessible customer support options can also lead to positive word of mouth and increased customer loyalty. It shows that the company values their customers and is willing to go the extra mile to provide exceptional service. – Pratik Chaskar, spectra
Janice has been with businesskinda for 5 years, writing copy for client websites, blog posts, EDMs and other mediums to engage readers and encourage action. By collaborating with clients, our SEO manager and the wider businesskinda team, Janice seeks to understand an audience before creating memorable, persuasive copy.