Why users abandon mobile payments and how to fix it

Shopping on a smartphone is quick and convenient. Users can browse and make purchases from anywhere in just a few taps. The numbers speak for themselves: according to StatCounter, nearly 60% of worldwide traffic is mobile.

Yet mobile users are still more likely to abandon a payment than desktop users.

Why does this happen? Read on to discover the main reasons behind mobile payment drop-offs and how to reduce them.

Why do mobile payers drop off?

Mobile shoppers expect a frictionless checkout experience. They are typically less patient than desktop users, and often browse casually or on the go. Moving quickly from page to page, they are unlikely to tolerate a checkout that takes too much time and effort.

Here’s what makes such users abandon mobile payments:

• Non-optimised form fields. If fields, buttons, or CTAs are too small, users may struggle to tap the right element, select a field, or correct an error.

• Slow loading speed. The longer a customer waits for checkout to load or payment to process, the more time they have to second-guess an impulse purchase or just get irritated.

• Lack of tap-and-go payment options. Instead of typing long card numbers, mobile shoppers prefer to check out with a few clicks. Not offering payment methods that allow it can drive customers away.

How to build a checkout that converts on mobile

Designing a checkout isn’t just about making it good-looking – it’s about making the digital payment process effortless for users. Good design drives conversion, while a clumsy one creates payment friction and can lead to lost sales.

Here are the main steps to maximise mobile payment conversion.

Simplify the checkout process

A streamlined checkout process means higher chances of a successful purchase. Here’s how to make it simpler and faster:

• Keep fields to a minimum. Don’t force users to fill out too many fields – ask only for what is necessary.

• Make the form easy to fill on mobile. Use larger buttons, clearly defined CTAs, and an autofill feature.

• Offer guest checkout. Forcing first-time mobile payers to create an account can drive them away. Let them complete the order first, then offer optional registration on the confirmation page.

• Use a progress indicator. Show users exactly what stage they are at and how many steps remain.

Offer mobile-friendly payments

To prevent mobile cart abandonment, allow users to pay you in a few clicks. Enable:

• Digital wallets. Apple Pay and Google Pay let shoppers complete digital transactions in a few taps, making them perfect for quick mobile checkout.

• Instant bank transfers. Options like Pay by Bank allow customers to approve online payments directly in their banking apps. First, it’s fast. Second, it’s secure, because users’ payment data is never exposed.

• One-click payments. Once their payment and shipping details are saved, returning customers should be able to complete a purchase with a single tap, bypassing standard checkout steps.

Localise mobile checkout experience

To go truly global, keep these things local:

• Language. The checkout must appear in users’ local language. Otherwise, customers are unlikely to go through the hassle of translating it.

• Currency. Show prices in payers’ local currency so they instantly understand the exact amount they will be charged.

• Payment methods. To reduce cart abandonment, include the most popular local options at checkout. Displaying them based on the payer's IP will help them find their preferred methods faster.

Make error recovery smooth

Mobile checkout errors are widespread, but friction during error recovery doesn't have to be. To achieve this:

• Show errors in real time. Show users their errors – like ‘Invalid card number’ or ‘Invalid expiry date’ – as they fill out the checkout, not after they have submitted the form.

• Give clear error explanations. Don’t give vague ‘something went wrong’ messages. Let payers know what exactly is wrong, for example, ‘Card expired, please enter a new one’, or ‘Incorrect card number, please double-check’.

• Don’t reset fields. If an error occurs, preserve all previously entered information. Few things are more frustrating than re-entering all details in a mobile checkout from scratch.

Final thoughts

When customers abandon mobile payments, it’s not always because they no longer want your product. It may be because your checkout feels like too much hassle. To prevent this, partner with a payment service provider (PSP) that offers a checkout adapted for mobile shopping.

As a global PSP, Payop helps you accept digital payments across 170 countries and in over 100 currencies. Our intuitive checkout, broad range of international and local payment methods, and mobile-friendly Pay by Bank solution help you boost conversions internationally, even in mobile-first economies.

Want to scale globally and reach more smartphone payers? Contact us at sales@payop.com.