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

In the dynamic space of online food delivery, users expect quick service, precision, customization, and an effortless ordering journey.

As international need for food delivery services accelerates—expected to reach over 466B USD by 2027—startups must lead the pack by upgrading their food delivery apps with the necessary mix of features, intuitive UI, and modern tools.

Whether you are building a food delivery app like UberEats or rolling out your own ready-made ordering system, understanding what fuels retention and scalability is essential.

1. Smooth Onboarding and Account Creation

Onboarding is make-or-break. A quick sign-up process sets the tone for a smooth user journey. Enable users to sign up using Google/Facebook login, and offer optional preferences like order history to tailor future offers.

2. Live Delivery Tracking with GPS

Today’s users want transparency. By adding map-based tracking, you increase engagement. Let users to see:
- Live courier position
- Estimated delivery time
- Order progress updates

3. Advanced Search and Filter Functions

An effective search system is necessary as your ecosystem scales. Use filters like:
- Food type
- Dietary preference
- Speed filter
- Pricing range

Pair it with machine learning for a custom user experience.

4. Flexible In-App Payments

To speed up checkout, integrate:
- Cards
- Google Pay
- Rewards

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

5. Loyalty Programs & Referral Bonuses

User repeat engagement is more profitable than new acquisition. Add:
- Gamified incentives
- Membership clubs
- Invite bonuses

This can amplify customer stickiness.

6. Delivery Partner App + Route Optimization}

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

Shortest paths save time.

7. Admin and Restaurant Dashboards

Empower your partners and team with:
- Menu management
- 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 code efficiency.

9. Push Notifications & Engagement Triggers

Keep users informed with:
- Live delivery
- mobile food delivery experience Coupons
- Retention campaigns

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 optimize food app performance with:
- Emojis
- Quick comments
- Complaint escalation

Positive reviews build credibility.

12. Scalability & Cloud-Based Architecture

Use cloud services for:
- Real-time syncing
- App speed
- Growth support

This prepares your app for multi-city 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.