Anyone else absolutely hate First Direct's mobile app and online banking?

Thrugelmir

I don't like mobile apps at all. Manage perfectly well without needing to resort to using one. Online banking is a straightforward task so providing the website is functional I'm content.

guesswho2000

I don't mind it. Their iOS app is good, I think, and I love that you don't need a stupid calculator resembling device to use online banking, you can use a device you'd be carrying anyway (phone!).

Their online banking isn't the best, but isn't the worst.

Best mobile banking in my opinion is a tie between RBS/NatWest and Nationwide, worst is Halifax. Santander are ok, as are Co-op. I like Nationwide's mobile app, as you can do stuff on that which the website would ask for a code from the calculator thing for.

Best online (again, my opinion) is Nationwide, closely followed by RBS/NatWest. Worst is co-op. Halifax & FD are ok (FD score extra for not having the calculator thing!).

I haven't included MBNA/Tesco in my above comparisons, but both are middle of the road in my opinions. Tesco is annoying with their constant text message verification (ok, it's security and not a major issue), MBNA's online is good, the app is like Halifax, a pre packaged mobile site in an app.

Over and above what OP asked, but this is a forum, after all

phynbarr

I'm fed up with the assumption from FD that you need a smartphone AND an app to access your money online

EarthBoy

phynbarr wrote: »

I'm fed up with the assumption from FD that you need a smartphone AND an app to access your money online

There is no such assumption. You don't need anything about from your security details to access your account online. If you want to perform certain functions like setting up brand new payees you can use the app or you can have the security device instead. Absolutely no smart phone necessary.

badger09

badger09 wrote: »

Only very recently opened a FD 1st Account (for switching bonus and access to Regular Saver). Website seems a bit basic, but iPhone app is fine.

Opened Regular Saver on Sunday but it still hasn't appeared online and money is still sitting in 1st Account, which is a little odd

Turns out that despite being given an account number for my Regular Saver on Sunday, due to a 'system error' the account did not in fact get opened.

This is the second system error which has prevented me opening an account, though with the 1st Account I got an error message so was at least aware of the problem.

2 system errors on opening 2 accounts does not inspire me with confidence:(

Archi_Bald

badger09 wrote: »

2 system errors on opening 2 accounts does not inspire me with confidence:(

You just need to remember that FD have the best customer service ever, as per countless surveys carried out by MSE and Which?

Seriously though - call them and ask them to set up the account for you, if you haven't done so already.

badger09

Archi_Bald wrote: »

You just need to remember that FD have the best customer service ever, as per countless surveys carried out by MSE and Which?

Seriously though - call them and ask them to set up the account for you, if you haven't done so already.

Actually I do like their telephone customer service, I'd just prefer not to have to use it so often

I've decided to postpone opening the Regular Saver until early August to avoid any potential pitfalls with SOs falling on 30th/31st etc and potentially missing a month's payment, though their charming customer service adviser assured me this wouldn't have any negative impact on credit interest :cool:.