In the rapidly changing space of online food delivery, users require quick service, accuracy, personalization, and an seamless ordering journey.

As international need for food delivery services expands—projected to hit over 466B USD by the next two years—startups must remain competitive by enhancing their mobile delivery apps with the right mix of features, user-centric design, and smart technology.

Whether you are developing a clone of UberEats or rolling out your own ready-made ordering system, understanding what ensures retention and backend performance is non-negotiable.

 

 

1. Effortless Onboarding and Account Creation

First impressions matter. A simple sign-up process sets the tone for a frictionless experience. Allow users to register using mobile OTP, and offer smart customizations like order history to tailor future offers.

 

 

2. Live Delivery Tracking with GPS

Modern customers want transparency. By adding real-time GPS tracking, you enhance retention. Allow users to watch:
- Driver’s location
- Estimated delivery time
- Stage-by-stage tracking

 

 

3. Dynamic Search and Filter Functions

An effective search system food delivery platform is necessary as your ecosystem scales. Use segmentation like:
- Cuisine
- Health filter
- Speed filter
- Budget

Pair it with AI recommendations for a unique user experience.

 

 

4. Secure In-App Payments

To speed up checkout, integrate:
- Cards
- Google Pay
- top delivery app features Rewards

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

 

 

5. Loyalty Programs & Referral Bonuses

User retention is more valuable than new acquisition. Add:
- Point-based rewards
- Tier levels
- Refer-and-earn

This can boost customer lifetime value.

 

 

6. Delivery Partner App + Route Optimization}

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

Shortest paths save fuel.

 

 

7. Admin and Restaurant Dashboards

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

Restaurants should effortlessly add discounts.

 

 

8. Multi-Platform Support

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

Use Flutter for cost savings.

 

 

9. Push Notifications & Engagement Triggers

Keep users updated with:
- Order status
- Promotions
- Abandoned cart nudges

Apps with strong mobile alerts enjoy better conversion.

 

 

10. AI-Powered Personalization

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

This can increase order value.

 

 

11. Reviews & Ratings

Let customers voice feedback with:
- Star ratings
- Quick comments
- Service recovery

Positive reviews build credibility.

 

 

12. Scalability & Cloud-Based Architecture

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

This future-proofs your get started app for high demand.

 

 

Summary

The online food market is about more than just getting mealsit’s about building loyalty.

By including these 12 key features, 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.