America First Credit Union adds location-based offers, loan applications to mobile banking app
New features are taking center stage on First America's smartphone app as the CU extends its online services to the mobile environment.
Fiserv, a global provider of financial services technology solutions, today announced that America First Credit Union has enhanced its mobile app to enable clients to receive location-based offers for retail purchases, or apply for a loan from their smartphone. These new capabilities were added to the credit union's existing mobile banking platform, Mobiliti Enterprise from Fiserv, which America First has used since 2011, according to a press release.
"Our strategy for our mobile app is to add as much functionality to it as we can, so that the mobile channel becomes both a competitive differentiator and a member delighter," said Brice Mindrum, mobile services manager, America First Credit Union. "These updates were driven by a desire to better serve members and deliver convenience along with a bit of a 'wow' factor."
Some 30 percent of America First's 600,000 members use the mobile banking service, according to a press release.
The new features are front and center in the app's navigation in order to drive visibility and usage, according to the press release. A navigation bar across the bottom of the home screen allows users to tap icons to access ABC Deals or Loans, alongside other prominent categories such as accounts and transactions.
Location-based offers
America First already offers deals to members through online banking via a partnership with Cardlytics, according to the press release. Members can redeem deals at designated merchants, typically receiving "cash back," by clicking on an offer within their online transaction history and then spending at the merchant using their America First-issued debit, credit or prepaid card.
America First decided to expand ABC Deals to the mobile channel due to its popularity, according to the press release. Members who prefer not to use the location feature on their phone due to privacy considerations can type in a zip code from which to locate offers. The app then shows users a map with deals around them.
America First said it is the first credit union to leverage location-based functionality to deliver merchant offers through mobile banking via Cardlytics.
Loans from the phone
America First members can select from five different loan types within the app — auto, RV, personal loan, line of credit, and Visa credit — each of which links to a brief application, according to the press release. The credit union has paid particular attention to capabilities associated with applying for an auto loan via the app. Members can use the camera on the phone to scan a vehicle's VIN to see its retail and trade-in value. Members can also use the app to search for a vehicle using the built-in location tool, viewing pictures of vehicles for sale in the area, and then tapping through to receive directions to the dealer where the vehicle can be purchased.
"We love our close collaboration with America First. They've made digital banking a true strategic priority, and are leveraging the Mobiliti platform as a foundation for innovation," said Jim Tobin, senior vice president and general manager, Digital Channels, Fiserv. "These new features take advantage of some of the unique attributes of mobile devices — location capabilities and built-in cameras — to deliver a more valuable experience for America First members."