Today we are going to take a look at some of the essential features of an online store application. If you are looking to invest in eCommerce mobile app development, this blog is a must read for you.
Essential Features for an eCommerce Mobile App
1. Quick registration
Any mobile app with a long registration process is a big turn-off. The best way to go through the process is to allow users to register with their email ID/phone number and an OTP verification. You can also enable them to sign up through social media profiles.
2. Search and filter products
No matter how small or big your online store is, the product filtering and sorting feature allows people to easily find an item. Additionally, the search bar helps them directly enter the item they are looking for. We recommend that you integrate a search bar with an autocomplete functionality to simplify your search.
3. Application Portfolio
Having a wallet in your app is a good idea. People can add money from their bank account to the wallet and purchase. Also, in case of any refund or refund, the amount will be reflected in the app wallet. People can use this amount for the next purchase. Apart from improving the convenience of users, it will also encourage them to use the app repetitively.
4. Feedback system
Feedback helps in two ways: first, it gives you room to improve by getting an insight into your users' perspective, and second, users feel valued. You can ask them to give you feedback on each order. You can also encourage them to give you ratings on the app store.
5. Personalization
The e-commerce mobile app has the provision to take personalization to the next level. Once a user creates a profile, browses various items on your e-store, adds items to cart, or makes a purchase, you get an idea of customer behavior. Depending on that, you can show personalized product recommendations and also select personalized push notifications (more on this below).
6. Multiple payment methods
While the app wallet is one of the payment modes, your app should have several other payment modes to ensure convenience for a wide audience. These options may include credit/debit card, UPI app, net banking, etc. The app may also have provisions for different coupons for different payment modes. You can also offer cash/card at the delivery facility.
7. Customer Support
Customer service can create a defining moment for customers on your app. Try to integrate features like a chatbot, live chat system, click-to-call button, etc., to offer seamless customer communication. A quick response leads to an improved user experience.
8. Push Notification
If you want people to visit your app more often, push notification is the way to go. Notify about new arrivals, special offers, holiday offers, or the items stored in your cart. According to experts in digital marketing services, push notification campaigns must be very strategic to get the most out of them. Go beyond cliché promotional messages and capture people's attention with unique campaigns.
9. Add items after placing an order
One of the ideal ways to increase sales is to allow people to add items even after placing an order. Sometimes people may forget to add items when placing an order. You can allow a specific time interval (say, 24 hours) within which they can add more items to the existing order and the new order will be merged with the old one. For example, this is ideal for grocery shopping or everyday essentials.
10. Wish list
What if potential buyers want to buy something that is out of stock? Do you expect them to check the app from time to time, look for the item, and grab it when it's available? Instead of counting on that, integrating a wish list is a smart move. Users can add items here and purchase later. You can also send push notifications to users based on the items they have saved to their wishlist.
Oh, and while we're on this topic, make sure that wishlist and shopping cart items are saved until users purchase or delete them. No one likes to search for items again and again and add them to the cart.
11. Order tracking
Keep users informed about order status until it arrives at their doorstep. An order tracking feature is a must in an e-store as it allows users to track the progress of their order. It improves your transparency and also encourages people to wait patiently for the order.
12. Flash sale
If you want to acquire new customers, flash sales can maximize your efforts. Sometimes flash sales become synonymous with the brand. Be sure to build hype around your flash sale for a significant period of time before the sale begins.
13. Ratings and reviews
According to a Spiegel study, around 95% of customers read reviews before making a purchase. Be sure to feature product reviews and ratings and encourage buyers to rate items.
If you have already invested in eCommerce website development, you might have an idea of what features to include in the mobile app. The app is basically an extension of your web destination.
Now, let's move on to review some advanced features that you can integrate into your eCommerce mobile app.
Unique features that improve user experience
While the following features are not essential yet, if you want to offer an exceptional user experience on your online store, you may want to consider integrating them.
14. Image Search
If you have a large e-store with varied products, you can offer an image search option. People can simply click on an image of the product they want to buy and search with the image for results of similar products.
15. Voice search
You can take advantage of the device's recorder and allow users to talk about what they are looking for. You can also allow them to track their order status through this feature. This simplifies people's journey through your online store.
16. AR/VR functionality
It's time to take advantage of the latest technologies in your e-store. You can use various augmented reality features to offer a great user experience. For example, you can allow them to view a product from 3 dimensions or check how an item (or their space) would fit on them.
The integration of these functions will improve the convenience of your users. What are you waiting for! Create an eCommerce app and give your business a new boost.
