Best Practices for Banking App UX in 2024

As we move through 2024, the digital banking world is rapidly evolving, with financial institutions striving to deliver superior user experiences. The surge in fintech platforms has raised the bar, making intuitive and secure banking apps more essential than ever. In this competitive landscape, crafting a standout banking user experience is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. So, how can banks ensure their apps not only meet but exceed customer expectations? Gapsy takes a closer look at the top UX practices shaping the future of banking apps in 2024.

Why is UX so critical for banking apps? In the financial industry, trust and usability are paramount. A poor user experience banking can not only frustrate users but also lead to loss of customers and decreased trust in the institution. An intuitive and well-designed app enhances customer satisfaction, boosts engagement, and builds brand loyalty.

With banking moving into the digital realm, the app becomes the primary touchpoint for many customers. It’s no longer just about functionality but about delivering value through design. Consider the following:

• User retention. A smooth, well-designed UX ensures that customers keep using the app.
• Trust and security. When users find an app easy to use and secure, their confidence in the bank increases.
• Competitive edge. A superior UX can be the difference between gaining and losing customers.

In short, UX isn’t just an aesthetic choice—it's a core business strategy.

First impressions matter, and the onboarding process is the first interaction users have with your app. If it’s complicated or time-consuming, they might abandon the process before even completing it. For 2024, the focus is on streamlining onboarding to ensure users can set up their accounts swiftly and securely.

Requesting too much information early on can overwhelm users, leading them to abandon the process. Instead, keep the steps clear, simple, and easy to follow. Integrating biometric login options, like facial recognition or fingerprint scans, allows users to secure their accounts without unnecessary friction. It is also used among the top mobile banking apps like Citi Mobile, Chase Mobile, and Ally. The ultimate goal is to make the onboarding process as painless as possible while ensuring all necessary security protocols are met.

The layout and banking UI design of navigation can make or break the user experience. With so many features and functions packed into banking apps—from bill payments to investment tracking—finding the right balance between offering options and avoiding overwhelming users is crucial. Users need to find what they’re looking for quickly and efficiently.

For 2024, intuitive navigation means a consistent layout across all screens. Users should be able to predict where to find key functions, reducing the cognitive load of using the app. Grouping related services, such as transfers, payments, and account management, makes it easier for users to find what they need. Offering a reliable search function is also crucial, allowing users to search for specific tasks without browsing through multiple menus.

Visual cues, like icons and subtle animations, can help guide users without overloading them with information. Aim to make the banking app UX feel familiar and logical from the first use.

Security is non-negotiable in the banking world. But here’s the challenge—how do you implement robust security without compromising the mobile banking UX? In 2024, security measures should be enhanced but discreet.

• Biometric authentication. Fingerprint or facial recognition offers a frictionless way to log in while maintaining high security.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA). While necessary for heightened security, ensure that MFA is seamless and quick.
• Real-time alerts. Notify users immediately of any suspicious activity, but do so in a way that doesn’t cause alarm unless truly necessary.

By integrating security as a natural part of the user journey, you can protect your customers while still offering them a pleasant experience.

Users expect apps to adapt to their preferences. Banking apps should offer personalized experiences, from recommendations to account overviews. The more the banking app design can cater to individual needs, the more engaging and useful it becomes. Here’s how you can incorporate it:

• Customizable dashboards. Let users choose what they see first—whether it’s their account balance, spending summary, or investment portfolio.
• Personalized insights. Offer tailored financial advice, such as saving goals or investment opportunities based on their spending patterns.
• Targeted notifications. Notify users of relevant offers, alerts, or reminders without overwhelming them with unnecessary information.

A personalized banking experience improves usability and strengthens the bank's relationship with its customers. It shows that you understand their unique needs.

Users today expect their financial apps to go beyond traditional banking functions. Seamless integration with other platforms—like budgeting tools, payment services, and financial management apps—has become essential. Offering a connected experience is no longer optional; it’s a critical feature for meeting the evolving needs of modern users.

Allowing users to link external financial services—such as PayPal, Venmo, or third-party investment apps—creates an all-in-one experience where users can manage all their finances in one place. Open banking APIs play a key role in making this possible, letting users aggregate their accounts from different institutions within a single app interface. Cross-device functionality is another important aspect, ensuring that users can access their accounts and complete transactions from smartphones, tablets, and even wearables without losing any functionality. Make your mobile banking app design responsive to meet this need.

Seamless integration expands the app’s ecosystem, transforming it into a hub for users’ entire financial lives.

The core function of any banking app is facilitating transactions, and this process needs to be as smooth and frictionless as possible. Whether users are transferring money, paying bills, or managing investments, every transaction should be fast, simple, and secure.

Streamlining the transaction experience means allowing for one-tap payments and real-time transfers. Users should not have to re-enter their payment details repeatedly; instead, securely stored information can make recurring transactions quick and effortless. Confirmation screens should be clear and concise, offering users peace of mind with detailed transaction receipts and overviews. Ultimately, users expect banking apps to handle transactions without hiccups or unnecessary steps, making financial management feel second nature.

Even with the best UX design, users will still occasionally run into issues. That’s where accessible customer support comes in. UX bank design should provide multiple, easy-to-access support options to ensure customers can resolve their issues promptly.

• Live chat. Integrate AI-powered chatbots for quick, automated responses to common queries, with the option to escalate to a human agent.
• Call support. Allow users to contact support directly from the app if their issues are more complex.
• FAQ and help center. Create a detailed self-help section where users can find answers to common questions.

Quick, reliable customer support builds trust and ensures users feel supported throughout their journey.

Banking is a service for all, and your app should reflect that. Inclusive design ensures that users of all abilities and demographics can use your app with ease. As more institutions embrace the need for inclusivity in 2024, accessibility becomes a critical component of the digital banking user experience.

Providing features like voice assistance, text resizing, and screen readers ensures every user can access your app. Additionally, offering multilingual support allows for a broader, more inclusive audience. Inclusive design also means testing the app with a diverse range of users to ensure everyone, regardless of ability, can interact with the app smoothly. When your app is designed with inclusivity in mind, it expands your user base and communicates that your institution values all its customers equally.

As we move through 2024, the competition in digital banking continues to rise. Creating an app that stands out is no longer just about features—it’s about crafting a user experience that is simple, secure, and personalized. Whether it’s streamlining the onboarding process, enhancing security, or making the app more accessible, the best practices outlined here are essential for delivering a top-tier banking UI and UX. 

In a world where users expect more from their digital experiences, can your app afford to fall behind? Gapsy Studio will help you stay ahead of the curve. Check our portfolio and contact us ASAP!