Upgrading a on-demand food app: 12 Key Functionalities for 2025

In the dynamic space of online food delivery, customers require speed, accuracy, customization, and an seamless ordering journey.

As international need for food delivery services accelerates—projected to exceed over USD 466 Billion by the next two years—businesses must remain competitive by upgrading their mobile delivery apps with the necessary mix of features, intuitive UI, and smart technology.

Whether your team is building a food delivery app like UberEats or starting your own ready-made food delivery platform, understanding what fuels customer satisfaction and scalability is essential.

1. Seamless Onboarding and Account Creation

The user’s first touchpoint is crucial. A clean sign-up process sets the tone for a uninterrupted experience. Allow users to get started using mobile OTP, and offer optional preferences like favorite cuisines to enhance future suggestions.

2. Live Delivery Tracking with Map Integration

Modern customers expect transparency. By adding map-based tracking, you enhance engagement. Allow users to see:
- Live courier position
- ETA
- Order progress food delivery software updates

3. Advanced Search and Filter Functions

An effective search system is vital as your ecosystem scales. Use filters like:
- Food type
- Health filter
- Delivery time
- Pricing range

Pair it with smart suggestions for a custom user experience.

4. Flexible In-App Payments

To speed up transform customer experience with tech checkout, integrate:
- Cards
- Google Pay
- Rewards

Ensure safety with encryption. Touch-free payment is a must.

5. Loyalty Programs & Referral Bonuses

User loyalty is more cost-effective than new acquisition. Add:
- Gamified incentives
- Tier levels
- Invite bonuses

This can increase customer lifetime value.

6. Delivery Partner App + Route Optimization}

Drivers need a dedicated app to fulfill tasks:
- Turn-by-turn directions
- Earnings dashboard
- Order details

Optimized routes save time.

7. Admin and Restaurant Dashboards

Empower your partners and team with:
- Inventory tools
- Reports
- Support

Restaurants should instantly update menus.

8. Multi-Platform Support

Your app should monetizing food delivery app perform seamlessly on:
- Apple devices
- Android
- Browser platforms

Use React Native for code efficiency.

9. Push Notifications & Engagement Triggers

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

Apps with strong notification strategies enjoy better click-through.

10. AI-Powered Personalization

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

This can increase engagement rate.

11. Reviews & Ratings

Let customers rate their experience with:
- Scores
- Written reviews
- Service recovery

Positive reviews build trust.

12. Scalability & Cloud-Based Architecture

Use serverless solutions for:
- Data management
- Performance scaling
- Growth support

This prepares your app for multi-city rollout.

Conclusion

The online food market 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 scale fast.