Absa app: better late than never

Absa launched its own app yesterday - 21 months after rival FNB became the first South African bank to break into the banking apps market.

The app, which is free, will for now be available only for phones running Android, and for Apple's iPads and iPhones, Absa's head of digital channels and payments Absa, Adrian Vermooten, said yesterday. Customers using BlackBerry smartphones will have to wait at least eight weeks before they can use the app.

Leveraging on its relationship with UK banking giant Barclays, Absa used a platform in use in Europe and other parts of Africa and customised it for South Africa.

The app, which has two-click functionality, is available in English and Afrikaans. There is a video tutorial.

The app's features include Absa ATM and branch locations through GPS, a facility to buy prepaid airtime, making payments, and adding or deleting beneficiaries. Other features include a monthly transaction history and graphics showing users how their money is spent.

Digital media expert Arthur Goldstuck praised the app but criticised the fact that it was limited to Android and Apple devices.

"Though the Absa banking app was very late to market, it's a great tool to use. The downside, though, is that it's focused on only 20% of the devices in this country.

"Compatibility with BlackBerry should have been made a priority because it is the most popular smartphone in South Africa," Goldstuck said.

Nedbank and Standard Bank launched their apps last year. Investec unveiled its last week.