Improving the Food Delivery App: 12 Must-Have Functionalities for the Year Ahead

In the rapidly changing landscape of digital ordering, users require speed, accuracy, customization, and an intuitive experience.

As international need for food delivery services continues to surge—expected to exceed over 466B USD by the next two years—businesses must lead the pack by optimizing their mobile delivery apps with the ideal mix of functionalities, intuitive UI, and cutting-edge tech.

Whether your team is building a custom UberEats-style app or launching your own rebrandable ordering system, understanding what drives retention and operational efficiency is essential.

1. Effortless Onboarding and Account Creation

The user’s first touchpoint is crucial. A clean sign-up process sets the tone for a smooth user journey. Allow users to get started using Google/Facebook login, and offer smart customizations like favorite cuisines to personalize future suggestions.

2. Real-Time Order Tracking with GPS

Modern customers want transparency. By building in map-based tracking, you increase retention. Allow users to watch:
- Live courier position
- ETA
- Order progress updates

3. Dynamic Search and Filter Options

An powerful search system is vital as your menu grows. Use filters like:
- Cuisine
- Dietary preference
- Speed filter
- Budget

Pair it with machine learning for a unique user experience.

4. Smart In-App Payments

To speed up checkout, integrate:
- Debit/Credit
- Wallets
- Loyalty points

Ensure security with industry standards. Contactless payment is a must.

5. Loyalty Programs & Referral Bonuses

User repeat engagement is more profitable than new acquisition. Add:
- Point-based rewards
- Membership clubs
- Refer-and-earn

This can amplify customer trust.

6. Delivery Partner App + Route Optimization}

Drivers White-label food delivery by Oyelabs need a streamlined app to fulfill tasks:
- Turn-by-turn directions
- Wallet
- Customer chat

Optimized routes save fuel.

7. Admin and Restaurant Dashboards

Give control to your partners and team with:
- Menu management
- Analytics
- Support

Restaurants should easily add discounts.

8. Multi-Platform Support

Your app should work seamlessly on:
- Apple devices
- Google Play
- Web

Use Flutter for cost savings.

9. Push Notifications & Engagement Triggers

Keep users visit the site updated with:
- Live delivery
- Coupons
- Abandoned cart nudges

Apps with strong notification strategies enjoy better click-through.

10. AI-Powered Personalization

Use AI to:
- Suggest meals
- Study behavior
- Trigger smart deals

This can increase order value.

11. Reviews & Ratings

Let customers voice feedback with:
- Star ratings
- Quick comments
- Complaint escalation

Positive reviews build credibility.

12. Scalability & Cloud-Based Architecture

Use serverless solutions for:
- Real-time syncing
- Performance scaling
- Growth support

This hardens your app for massive adoption.

Conclusion

The digital food economy is about more than just getting mealsit’s about delivering experiences.

By including seamless food ordering experience these must-haves, your app can thrive in the 2025 landscape.

Looking for a faster launch? **Oyelabs’ UberEats clone** provides a power-packed solution to help you scale fast.