First direct mobile banking app review: what's it like to use for current account holders?

We look at how first direct's Banking on the Go app compares on security, logging in, making payments and more.

If you’re thinking of switching to a branchless bank, the quality of its smartphone app is increasingly important.

First direct has long prided itself on staying ahead of the curve with technology and was one of the first in the UK when it introduced mobile phone banking in 2006.

That’s why, in the fifth part of our banking review series, we’re looking at first direct’s Banking on the Go app and the features and security it offers.

If you are a Halifax, NatWest, Santander, TSB or Barclays customer – or considering becoming one – read our reviews of their banking apps.

Why first direct?

First direct offers one of the more attractive switching bonuses in the market for its current account – a choice between a £150 Expedia voucher, various gadgets or online training courses all worth over £100.

It’ll pay you another £100 if you’re unhappy with the account and decide to leave.

If you get first direct’s current account, you’ll also get access to a regular saver account offering a competitive 5% interest.

When it comes to customer service, first direct regularly tops the polls and has won several awards.

Who can get the first direct app?

The first direct Banking on the Go app is available to iPhone and iPad users on the App store and to Android users on Google Play.

You can also get the app on Blackberry and Kindle Fire although you cannot set up new payments on these devices.

To use the app you will have to first sign up for telephone banking, which takes around 10 minutes on the phone.

What you can see

Your current and savings accounts with first direct as well as any credit cards you hold with first direct. This review will focus on the current account.

What you can do

The first direct app allows current account customers to:

• View balances and transaction history;
• Set up, view or cancel Standing Orders;
• Set up payments to a company or person;
• Make payments to a mobile number using Paym
• Transfer money between first direct current and savings accounts
• Generate security codes for internet banking
• Apply for a limited selection of first direct products, such as a cash ISA or everyday e-saver.

What we like

Here’s what we liked about the first direct Banking on the Go app:

It’s simple to log in

You can use your fingerprint or even your face to log into the app if your device has that feature. Otherwise, you’ll have to enter a password.

It's easy to set up new payments

Unlike earlier versions, you can set up new regular payments all within the app.

You can pay people using their mobile number

No more exchanging bank details – first direct’s app uses the Paym service so you can pay someone simply using their mobile number. It’s simple to set up and even easier to use.

iPhone users can, via the Siri, even use their voice to make a payment.

It works with ‘jailbroken’ phones

Unlike many other banking apps, first direct’s app works on ‘jailbroken’ or ‘rooted’ phones, although these devices can be less secure.  

What we don’t like

You can’t do much

First direct’s app is simple to use, but perhaps too simple.

Other bank’s apps now allow you to order new PIN numbers, let your bank know that you are going abroad or even get cash out of an ATM using your phone.

None of these functions exists on first direct’s app, which won’t even let you download full statements.

Ironically, for many tasks you’d be best off using your smartphone to call first direct’s excellent 24/7 helpline, which is mercifully menu-free.

There’s no budgeting tool

The app doesn’t yet offer any in-app budgeting tool to help you manage your money.

First direct is planning to launch another app called artha, which will bring all the user’s bank account details into one place.

The app will analyse users spending patterns and suggest ways they can save money, such as by changing energy provider.

However, at the time of writing, no release date for the app has been announced.

Screenshots

In our testing on an iPhone device, the app permitted screenshots, which flagged up some security concerns.

However, first direct appears to have disabled this facility for those using the app on Android.

First direct told us that "iOS devices do not allow app developers to prevent screengrabs so this is not something app developers can control."

Final verdict

The app is incredibly straightforward and simple to use. However, given they've always been online- or phone-only, you'd have hoped to see a little more innovation from the first direct app. 

It's possible the impending budgeting app will improve functionality, but for now, we can't help but feel the Banking on the Go falls short of our high expectations of first direct.

What other customers think

Google Play Store rating: 3.6 out of 5

Apple App Store rating: 4.8 out of 5

What do you think?

Have you got the first direct Banking on the Go App? Share your likes and dislikes in the comment section below.

If you already use mobile banking, read our tips on staying safe and secure