With the average user interacting with nine to ten apps a day, businesses are wise to create functional mobile apps to complement their existing digital presence. However, many companies make the mistake of creating an app that is just an extension of their desktop website and don’t consider the special features that can make the mobile user experience that much better.
But if companies want to increase not only customer retention, but also overall long-term customer satisfaction, they may want to consider including some of the following features, as recommended by members of the Young Entrepreneur Council. Even including just one of these nine features could dramatically improve your app’s user experience.
1. Multiple payment options
You don’t want a mobile user to abandon their 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, you need to ensure a couple of things. First, you need top-notch security, such as two-factor authentication. Also, you need to make it easy 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, SpiroPure
2. Integration with wearable devices
There are so many features that mobile apps could benefit from, but if I had to pick one, I’d say integration with wearable devices. Imagine how good it would be to switch between your phone and your smartwatch or fitness tracker without missing a beat. In addition, it would enable even more personalized experiences and the ability to track and analyze data across multiple devices. But it’s not just about the cool factor. Integration with wearable devices could also be an important factor in improving overall customer satisfaction and retention. When you provide a smoother experience, users are more likely to stay and continue using the app. – Abhijeet Kaldate, Astra WordPress Theme
3. A battery usage setting
One important feature that many apps don’t have is a power saving or battery usage setting that reduces the drain on your phone’s battery. It doesn’t matter how clean your interface is or how useful your notification settings are if your app is constantly draining your battery life. Some apps are very resource intensive and every time you open them you can almost see the battery bar go to zero. Not only is this frustrating for the end user, but it will also encourage them to stop using your app altogether. Since users often have many applications running in the background, it is important to consider resource limitations. Design your app to use fewer resources and implement a low-power mode, so they can continue using your app directly or in the background without draining their batteries over time. – Shaun Conrad, CPA Exam Resources Number2
4. Personalization
I think more apps should incorporate customization. By adapting to users’ preferences, habits and needs, apps can create a more meaningful and enjoyable experience. When an app really “gets” you, you’re more likely to stick and use it, right? Adding personalization features can mean creating custom content feeds, offering personalized recommendations, or even adjusting the app’s user interface based on user 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 will be 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 should have a dark mode or night mode feature, which changes the screen settings from white to black or a dark color and text and icons from dark to light. This feature can reduce eye strain, correct sleep patterns, and make the app more accessible to visually impaired users. By incorporating dark mode, mobile apps can provide a more convenient and accessible user experience, which can increase customer retention and satisfaction. Users are more likely to continue using an app that’s easy on their eyes and doesn’t cause them discomfort or fatigue. Additionally, this feature can also help attract new users who prioritize accessibility and user experience when choosing which apps to use. – Kazi Mamun, CANSOFT
6. Access to the community
I think mobile apps should have the option to access an online community built around the app or the solutions the company offers. This would allow users to connect with like-minded people, interact with each other and share their experiences. Also, because users can interact with others and find solutions to their problems, their representatives allow them to focus on the important things. Making your community accessible through your app helps facilitate a seamless user experience and allows you to foster higher engagement, which in turn improves customer satisfaction and has a positive impact on your retention. – Stephanie Wells, Formidable Shapes
7. Offline functionality
As a tech founder, I’ve seen my fair share of mobile apps come and go. One feature that is often overlooked but can make a huge difference to 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 use and interact with the app even in areas with limited connectivity or without a data plan. Picture this: You’re on a long flight, with 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 useful feature to your app. – Adam Preiser, WPCrafter
8. Quick resume
I think more mobile apps should include a quick resume feature. There have been quite a few productivity apps and games I’ve used recently that restart every time you exit the window. I’m all for a quick resume feature because it would encourage people to continue their interaction even if they get distracted and open the app hours or even days later. – Chris Christoff, MonsterInsights
9. Application 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 satisfaction of the client Users appreciate being able to get help quickly and easily when they need it, and this can help build trust and loyalty. In addition, fast and effective customer service can help prevent negative reviews and feedback, which can have a significant impact on an app’s reputation and success. Additionally, having more accessible customer service options can also lead to positive word of mouth and increased customer loyalty. It shows that the company values its customers and is willing to go the extra mile to provide exceptional service. – Pratik Chaskar, Spectra
As a full-stack tech company, Ikaroa is always looking for new ways to improve customer retention and satisfaction. Mobile apps are becoming increasingly important for businesses, and there are several features that can be included in them which could help keep customers engaged. Here are some of the top nine features that mobile apps should have in order to improve retention and satisfaction.
1. Push Notifications: Push notifications are a great way to remind customers of new products, activities, and general announcements. They should be tailored to the customer’s interests and needs, so that they can easily access current information and updates.
2. Social Sharing: Allowing customers to share their experiences on their favorite social media sites is an excellent way to build up your brand. It also allows customers to recommend your products or services to their friends and family, thereby increasing your customer base.
3. Gamified Content: Gamifying the content within your app is a great way to bring in new customers and keep existing ones engaged. This can be used to elaborate on activities that can be done within the app, or even used as a reward system for customers who complete tasks or purchase items.
4. Personalization: Personalizing the user experience is key for building a trusted connection between your brand and customers. By knowing their past engagements, you can make relevant product recommendations and create a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
5. Feedback: Opportunity for customers to provide feedback within your app is essential to understanding how they feel about your services. As well as monitoring the feedback, it’s also important to respond in a timely manner, so that customers feel like their opinions are valued.
6. Rewards: Rewards are one way to incentivize customers to stay engaged with your app. This could include discounts, exclusive offers, or even rewards for purchasing products.
7. Security: Customers want to feel secure when using a mobile app, so it is necessary to implement the latest safety features such as two-factor authentication.
8. Real-time updates: Knowing about updates to services and products in real time increases customer satisfaction. Mobile apps should include features that keep customers informed of such changes.
9. Ease of Use: A mobile app should be designed with easy-to-use navigation and intuitive features. This will create an enjoyable experience for users.
At Ikaroa, we believe that these nine features offer an exciting opportunity to build amazing mobile apps and increase customer retention and satisfaction. With the right combination of these nine features, your business can create user engagement and loyalty.
