Upgrading a on-demand food app: Twelve Key Functionalities for 2025

In the rapidly changing landscape of digital ordering, customers demand quick service, precision, personalization, and an seamless ordering journey.

As global need for online food ordering accelerates—estimated to exceed over 466B USD by the next two years—businesses must remain competitive by enhancing their food delivery apps with the right mix of features, UX-first design, and smart technology.

Whether you're building a food delivery app like UberEats or launching your own white-label food delivery platform, understanding what drives retention and operational efficiency is critical.

1. Seamless Onboarding and Account Creation

First impressions matter. A simple sign-up process sets the tone for a smooth experience. Enable users to register using social logins, and offer smart customizations like favorite cuisines to personalize future offers.

2. Live Delivery Tracking with Map Integration

Modern customers want transparency. By adding map-based tracking, you enhance trust. Enable users to monitor:
- Live courier position
- Estimated delivery time
- Stage-by-stage tracking

3. Dynamic Search and Filter Options

An intelligent discovery system is essential as your menu expands. Use tags like:
- Cuisine
- Health filter
- Delivery time
- Budget

Pair it with smart suggestions for a personalized user experience.

4. Smart In-App Payments

To simplify checkout, integrate:
- Debit/Credit
- Wallets
- Coupons

Ensure security with PCI-DSS. Digital-only payment is a must.

5. Loyalty Programs & Referral Bonuses

User retention is customer retention strategies more valuable than new acquisition. Add:
- Gamified incentives
- Membership clubs
- Invite bonuses

This can amplify customer lifetime value.

6. Delivery Partner App + Route Optimization}

Drivers need a dedicated app to manage tasks:
- Navigation
- Wallet
- Customer chat

Shortest paths save time.

7. Admin and Restaurant Dashboards

Empower your partners and team with:
- Inventory tools
- Analytics
- Conflict resolution

Restaurants should easily track orders.

8. Multi-Platform Support

Your app should function seamlessly on:
- iOS
- Google Play
- Web

Use cross-platform tools for scalability.

9. Push Notifications & Engagement Triggers

Keep users updated with:
- Live delivery
- Coupons
- Retention campaigns

Apps with strong notification strategies enjoy better conversion.

10. AI-Powered Personalization

Use AI to:
- Suggest meals
- Study behavior
- Create upsells

This can increase average basket size.

11. Reviews & Ratings

Let customers Oyelabs on-demand app solution voice feedback with:
- Emojis
- Written reviews
- Complaint escalation

Positive reviews build reputation.

12. Scalability & Cloud-Based Architecture

Use cloud services for:
- Real-time syncing
- App speed
- User traffic

This prepares your app for multi-city delivery logistics rollout.

Conclusion

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

By including these must-haves, your app can excel in the 2025 landscape.

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