In our world today, mobile devices have become man’s most reliable confidant and tool for various purposes. Varying from fun, to entertainment, work, and even learning, mobile apps have become a key component of man’s life, making it a necessity for all to have. And especially in the tech and web3 sector, mobile apps have grown to become the preferred choice of tool for interactions, trumping websites and online dashboards.
With 90% of mobile internet time spent on apps over 10% on websites, this data shows where most users' attention is drawn to. Therefore, in our article today, we shall be discussing the use of mobile apps as the key to seamless user experience and support, and how this can make a difference in onboarding into web3.
Mobile apps provide a more seamless and faster experience compared to websites, making them the preferred choice for many users. One of the biggest advantages is instant access. Unlike websites that require users to open a browser, type a URL, and often log in repeatedly, mobile apps allow one-tap access directly from the Home Screen, straight to the users page/dashboard. This swift movement eliminates extra steps and provides a smoother, more efficient experience.
Another key benefit of apps over websites is persistent logins and personalization. Most apps keep users logged in, unlike websites that frequently require re-authentication due to security settings. Apps also store user preferences, offering a more consistent and customized experience with minimal effort. With this level of convenience, apps particularly become attractive for daily-use services, rather than time-wasting sites.
Speed and performance are also major factors. Since mobile apps are built specifically for devices, they leverage local storage, caching, and system resources. to function more efficiently. But in contrast, websites rely on browsers and internet connectivity, which can lead to slower load times and inconsistent performance. With this difference, a significant advantage of mobile apps over websites is therefore “push notifications”.
Unlike emails or browser alerts, which can be easily missed, push notifications provide real-time updates directly on a user’s device. This feature is particularly valuable for breaking news, social media updates, reminders, promotions, etc, ensuring that users stay informed without having to open the app manually.
All these abilities to engage users instantly and directly makes mobile app usage a superior user experience option, especially when the apps are designed with intuitive interfaces, optimized navigation, and smooth animations that makes them easier and more enjoyable to use.
Web3 onboarding can be a complex process, often requiring users to navigate multiple steps. From setting up a crypto wallet, to managing private keys, and understanding blockchain interactions, these can be confusing for new users. According to a 2023 survey by Chainalysis, nearly 48% of potential Web3 users are lost at the onboarding stage due to complexity and security concerns, creating a significant barrier to mainstream adoption. However, mobile apps can simplify these challenges by integrating intuitive features that enhance security, usability, and accessibility.
One of the biggest challenges in Web3 is security, as users must manage private keys or seed phrases, which can be lost or compromised. Mobile apps address this with biometric authentication, allowing users to log in securely using fingerprint or facial recognition instead of manually entering passwords or seed phrases. A report from Juniper Research in 2022 found biometric authentication to be 20% faster, reducing login errors, yet still enhancing both security and convenience. Another way mobile apps ease the onboarding process is through in-app tutorials and guided onboarding experiences. Instead of expecting users to understand complex blockchain mechanics upfront, apps can offer interactive walkthroughs, tooltips, and educational pop-ups. Research by DappRadar shows that with interactive guidance, users are 60% more likely to complete onboarding and continue engaging with decentralized applications (dApps).
Wallet integrations within mobile apps also play a crucial role in simplifying Web3 utilization. Built-in wallet support eliminates the need for third-party extensions or external apps, allowing users to store, send, and receive digital assets seamlessly. A study by ConsenSys reported that mobile-integrated wallets increase transaction completion rates by 35%, as users can interact with multiple blockchain networks without manual configurations.
By providing all these benefits of mobile apps, as against the challenges of website use, most friction points associated with Web3 onboarding can be eliminated. These become streamlined solutions not only making blockchain services more accessible, but also drive higher user adoption and reach to a broader audience.
Mobile apps create a safer user environment by leveraging advanced security features that significantly reduce risks, leading to fewer security-related support tickets. Compared to websites, mobile apps provide a more controlled and secure experience through biometric login, encrypted storage, and two-factor authentication (2FA).
Let us look at some of the security advantages of mobile apps over websites in web3.
1. Biometric Login vs. Password Vulnerabilities:
Mobile apps utilize biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition), allowing users to log in without relying on passwords. This alone eliminates the risk of credential theft, brute-force attacks, or phishing scams, which are common on crypto websites, where users frequently enter passwords. A 2023 IBM Security report found that >80% of data breaches stem from weak or stolen passwords, highlighting the need for passwordless authentication methods.
2. Encrypted Storage vs. Browser-Based Risks:
Web3 mobile apps store sensitive data locally using mobile encrypted storage, preventing unauthorized access even if a device is compromised. Websites, however, rely on browser sessions and cookies, which are susceptible to session hijacking or man-in-the-middle attacks if users connect to an unsecured network. According to Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report, session hijacking is responsible for 17% of web-related breaches, making mobile encryption a critical security advantage.
3. Built-in 2FA vs. Phishing Threats:
Many mobile apps integrate native two-factor authentication (2FA) through SMS, authenticator apps, or push notifications, adding an extra layer of protection. Websites, while also supporting 2FA, are more vulnerable to phishing attacks that trick users into entering 2FA codes on fake sites. A Google study on authentication security found that phishing-resistant 2FA (such as push-based authentication) blocks 99% of automated bot attacks, making mobile apps a safer option.
Customer support representatives (CSRs) play a vital role in onboarding users into Web3 through mobile apps. Their primary responsibility is to provide guidance during troubleshooting, as well as user security education. CSRs also help many first-time users survive the struggle of setting up wallets, managing private keys, and understanding blockchain transactions.
In terms of education, by explaining key concepts on resolving technical issues, failed transactions or wallet connections, and on avoiding scams and gas fees optimization, CSRs ensure that users navigate with confidence, and knowledge of power.
Also, in-app customer support features like live chat, FAQs, and ticket systems further improve the onboarding experience. Live chat enables real-time assistance, helping users resolve urgent issues instantly, while self-service FAQs and tutorials allow them to find answers without waiting. And if more help is needed, an in-app support ticket system ensures structured issue escalation and resolution.
These services enhance user experience by minimizing friction, reducing support tickets, and increasing trust, ultimately making Web3 onboarding more seamless and accessible.
From one-tap access, to optimized performance, real-time push notifications, and a better overall user experience, mobile apps have become the preferred choice over websites for web3 activities. Leveraging biometric login, encrypted storage, and built-in 2FA, mobile apps provide a safer, more user-friendly security environment compared to websites vulnerable to phishing, session hijacking, and password-related threats.
By reducing friction and streamlining interactions, apps provide a faster, more engaging, and user-friendly experience, keeping users connected effortlessly. As a result, users face fewer security incidents, leading to increased trust and adoption for the entire web3 industry.
