Essential Features in a Retail Mobile App
The use of mobile devices is increasing in leaps and bounds. Today, our lives are more or less governed by our smartphones. Checking our bank information or our health and fitness apps, or our Social Media accounts are deeply integrated into the daily routine of our lives. Little wonder then that custom mobile application development is thriving with organizations- big or small trying to woo their customers with beautiful and useful apps.
– Statista reports that there are currently 6.648 billion smartphone uses
– This implies that 83.37% of people worldwide own a smartphone.
– Compare this against 2016, when 49.40% of the world population owned a smartphone!
– Furthermore, the number of mobile users is expected to total 7.516 billion by 2026
– 72.6% of internet users will use a phone to access the internet as per the World Advertising Research Center
Mobile Commerce is booming. It is becoming the new way to shop. Retailers have understood the trend and are mindful of their customer’s preferences. They have become a source of comfort and convenience. Users are not bound by time and location. This has led to increased mobile shopping for all types of goods, from milk to clothes to shoes. A retail mobile app is so handy that one can order materials while sitting in a car or even resting in bed!!
The State of M-Commerce in Retail Business
– If we consider market estimates, Business Insider has published that m-commerce will touch a valuation of $418,9 bn. By 2024, which means it will triple from 2019 when it stood at $128, 4bn.
Given the relevance of mobile shopping, many sellers are investing in developing custom retail apps for their businesses.
– Most online shoppers prefer to use their mobiles for shopping, making the phone the preferred platform for online shopping. ( Brizfeel)
Thanks to technological advances, m-commerce can offer high-security transactions, another important factor leading to its growth.
Start-ups to established enterprises have understood the benefits of a customized mobile app. A mobile app helps to expand the business, reach a larger audience, reach a targeted audience, build brand recognition, offer business ROIs and enable customer service.
Essential Features for a Retail Mobile App
User Log In Account
This is generally considered a prerequisite for mobile retail shopping. Users can access their dashboard, and their data is saved for use anytime. They need not fill in all particulars like shipping address, cart items, payment details, etc., repeatedly. Based on their shopping lists, brands can offer personalized discounts.
However, it is also good to consider the preferences of those who would not like to sign up. They would prefer to shop as guests. Here a slight preference can be given to registered users to encourage guests to sign up.
Search and Filters
A prominently displayed search bar is handy when customers know what they are looking for. It helps them save time and the hassle of going through all items. Filters help with categorizing goods according to specific requirements. For example, price is a filter that can be used to search for items within a specific price range.
An AI-based search item can also help with search and recommendations based on customers’ shopping habits.
Product Catalog
A product catalog in a retail mobile app helps with sorting and classifying items in an aesthetic and user-friendly way. It can be used as a “push” to purchase if used creatively. A catalog should also include filters, making it easier and more attractive for users.
Shopping Cart
The shopping cart is essential in a retail mobile app. It’s where customers keep their items for purchase while they shop for other items. Customers can also keep items in the cart and return them later to purchase. Carts allow users to compare products, change items, update addresses and finally pay and check out.
Payment Gateway
A payment gateway completes the purchase journey between the item and the customer. A secure range of payment options will allow customers to choose from their preferred mode. This is important to establish trust and ensure a good experience at checkout.
Augmented & Virtual Reality
These two technologies are creating ripples in the retail sector. Brands like IKEA, Sephora, and Alibaba are capitalizing on them to offer users enhanced features.
In-Store Experience
A customized mobile app can offer seamless navigation, essential features, and an awesome in-store experience.
Wrapping Up
To wrap up, customized retail mobile apps can greatly impact your business. Mobile apps and mobile shopping is a growing trend. A retail business can expand its offerings and reach a wider customer base with a well-designed and robust mobile app. Mobile app developers in Toronto and developers in India are being sought out for their expertise and skill to help retailers develop user-friendly retail mobile apps.
