When QR code technology was first introduced to the public, most people thought that it is no more than an advanced version of a barcode. Yes, users start making the best out of it for payments but no one paid much heed to its significance in the business and how important it might become in the future. Soon, people were amazed to see how powerful a tool it became for instant information exchange, and how the technology can be utilized in the digital era. People started looking forward to using it in a more comprehensive manner and soon we witnessed the rise of QR-code e-wallet apps.
In this world of business-to-consumer (B2C) marketing, QR code apps have revolutionized transaction systems, transforming them into an efficient communication channel and potential clients simply have to follow the link. We are sure that you all must have seen or encountered the famous black and white design of QR codes. This basic design has gained huge popularity and significance in the tech space. Smartphones and e-wallet apps are adopting this tool that is used by people anytime, anywhere to make cashless payments. In a recent study, it is estimated that more than 11 million users in the USA will scan at least one QR code in a year. The figure is not restricted to the US only but countries, such as Singapore, Australia, Canada, France, Thailand, and more are keeping pace with the change.
Considering that QR technology has become a basic thing globally, IT companies are offering software product engineering services to deliver effective and powerful apps to make QR code payments convenient. As you jump on the bandwagon and opt for QR code app development, here is an article to guide you to build a successful platform. Let’s start by understanding the basics of the QR code system:
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QR Code Payments: How Do They Work?
QR is an abbreviation for Quick Response which is a popular method for contactless payments. It uses a digital two-dimensional code that users scan through an app on their smartphone. It is a lot like a barcode but this technique stores a large amount of information per unit and has addressed a lot of challenges of traditional payments systems. It consists of black square patterns that are arranged on a grid with white background. Customers simply have to scan the code, confirm the amount that is requested, and submit the payment. This is a widely popular method used in marketing as well as for strict payments.
Another major difference between QR codes and a barcode is that the former can be scanned from paper and screen both while the latter works only on paper. Hence, the QR code payment method comes on apps and e-commerce websites too. Along with small stores, bigger brands and e-commerce platforms have also shifted toward QR technology to collect payment information from users and utilize the stored data for transactions. As they select payment preferences once, next time whenever they interact with a QR code using the app, the mode automatically changes to that particular payment type.
Transactions using QR codes comprise two primary options and you can choose either or use them simultaneously:
- Customer-facing QR code that is used when merchants present a code to buyers and deduct the amount from their e-wallet or official store app.
- Merchant-facing QR method is when a customer collects products in the app and generates a digital QR code for the shop owner to scan and get the transaction amount.
Although you can select the best method based on the type of business, customer-facing is way easier to set up. Also, to scan a QR code, users need either of the following:
- Smartphone or tablet with an inbuilt camera
- Barcode reader with the ability to scan QR codes.
With the immense popularity and use of this technology, companies are launching various QR code scan apps that are available for users. All they have to do is open the camera, place it toward the code, and it will automatically identify it and open a push notification. Just one more click on the phone and the process is finished. Even banks are using this tool for the purpose of bank transfer and payments. However, one important element is that the app should be seamless and secure. Therefore, along with seeking app development solutions, software testing services also become mandatory to ensure the top-notch performance and quality of the e-wallet application.
Qualities of a Successful QR Code e-Wallet App
There are a plethora of e-wallet and QR code apps available today but only a few can establish their mark among users. So, what does it take to develop an app that is loved by all and gains huge popularity? To know, read these points:
Easy Registration
Merchants and buyers, both parties prefer modes that are quick to set up and hassle-free. So, if your app will ask them to go through lengthy and unnecessary steps, then they might just lose interest and move on to the next option. There are companies that require users to buy hardware, sign contracts and deposit a minimum amount. Make sure that you free them from all these formalities and offer a portal with no complex initial setup. They can easily turn their smartphone into a POS.
Moreover, your QR app is meant to save people’s time and efforts. Thus, self-registration is a necessary and convenient step to accomplish the same. It should broadly follow these main steps:
- Install the app and run it.
- Sign up using a Gmail account and providing basic details.
- Register and confirm the identity via OTP.
- Set up the password.
- Add money to the wallet.
And it’s done. Yes, registration is a one-time process but still, it should not make a bad impression on users.
Complete Security
Your e-wallet app for QR codes will only be successful and loved by users if it is reliable and guarantees utmost security to them. As the world is getting digital and users storing their financial and personal information on an app, the cases of cyber-attacks and thefts are also increasing. Hackers are keeping a close watch to find any vulnerabilities or loopholes so they can fulfill their aspirations. Therefore, as the owner of an app, it is your duty to offer a comprehensive and secure system that protects users from such risks. Using advanced and cutting-edge technologies, you should ensure that their card, bank account, and personal details and safe, and no unauthorized person can access them.
You can also use other robust methods as well, such as security questions, tokenization, passwords, biometrics, and most importantly encryption method that will encrypt the data as soon as you start using your phone for payment. Despite digital wallets being more secure than card payment systems, security issues remain the major obstacle. A recent survey concluded that over 55% of users agreed that safety concerns are the key reason that they stopped using QR codes and e-wallet apps. So, provide your customers with a completely safe app that is free from any cyber risks.
Seamless Experience
One main rule of developing any app is that it should offer a seamless user experience and engage them. In case your QR code payment platform is complicated to navigate and is not compatible with all the devices, then it will lag behind other similar apps and will soon be out of the competition. Also, it should include other e-wallet payment modes to reach more audiences and deliver end-to-end solutions to all. The processing should be fast so that it can transfer money within seconds to anyone across the world. The whole payment process should be a matter of a few clicks. It should save all the necessary information for the future and complete the transaction within no time.
Another way to ensure your app’s performance is to create a lighter app with only the required features. You can also include a notification feature to share important events with customers, be it new offers or coupons, or others.
Chatbot
Chatbots have become the talk of the town these days. A chatbot is a software program that communicates with users via the internet. It is assisted by artificial intelligence and natural learning processing to help customers when humans are not available. Almost every website or app is using this smart technology to stay in touch with its users and provide dedicated support services. So, why not include it in your e-wallet app too?
This is a powerful and effective tool to keep your users connected with you regardless of time and location. You can keep them engaged and improve your customer support services as well. Also, you can offer round-the-clock services while lowering your services cost by implementing a chatbot into your app. Rest assured this is an efficient and value-driven technique that will add to your brand image.
Easy to Integrate
Restricting your app will not do any good to your business or users. If you want to reach a diverse audience and attain success soon, then it should accept different types of payments. The app should be a comprehensive and one-stop destination for all digital payment needs. Whether it is Visa, Google Pay, Apple Pay, Mastercard, or any other mode, it should accept it. This will pave the way for more opportunities for your app and translate into higher business revenue.
It should include all cashless payment methods and include all major banks if you wish to engage more users. No matter if a buyer is doing online shopping or making payment in a store, your app must cover all aspects in one place.
Wrapping It Up
QR code e-wallet apps are no more a trend but a need of the hour. To leverage its benefits and make the best out of it, you have to make sure that your app offers flawless performance and features.
The app must be secure, reliable, easy to use, and user friendly. Keep it simple so that everyone can use it irrespective of their technical expertise. Also, do not ignore the needs of your users if you want to launch a widely popular and attractive digital payment platform.
Author’s Bio: Alicia works with the editorial team of A3logics, a leading company offering big data consulting services and other IT solutions. Exploring the latest technologies, reading about them, and writing her views have always been her passion. She seeks new opportunities to express her opinions, explore technological advancements, and document the details. You can always find her enjoying books or articles about varied topics or jotting down her ideas in a notebook.