American Express (App Review)
We review a niche but very useful app, and arguably the best financial management app available in the UK.
Who Is It For?
American Express have had an Android app out for some time, offering users of its shiny plastic debt creators a convenient way to check you balance and make payments whilst on the go. Unlike the majority of UK based banking and credit institutions, AMEX seems quite comfortable in giving account access via a mobile app.
The American Express app allows the user to do pretty much anything that is available on the AMEX website.
Why Use It?
If you have a credit card, surely knowing your balance is a useful bit of information?
What Does It Do?
Simply, it gives you access to your credit card account from wherever you are. Rather than offer basic ‘read only’ access, and you can literally do anything that you could form the main website application.
The app permits you to register new cards, validate your replacement cards, check and update your balance and make payments. Perfect for when you forgot to pay you minimum amount or even if you want to add additional funds. The app gives a copy of your card statement and a full breakdown on your spending. The balance of any loyalty schemes (for example Nectar or Air Miles) is also available.
How Well Does It Work?
The American Express app automatically logs you out after a period of inactivity.
Very well actually. The screen layout is clear and information is easy to get to. The app is quick to update, even on low bandwidth connections (yes, even on GPRS!).
I was very surprised that AMEX allow full access to virtually all card functions which means you can get by very easily without going on the main website or calling Customer Services. For the security conscious there is an automatic logout function and it is impossible to save your password into the app which strikes a good balance between security and convenience.
The only thing missing is a list of phone numbers for customer support – the ones that are there are focused on app support and this is the only chink in it’s armour.
Score: 9/10
A great function packed app. If you use American Express that is.
Where?
The American Express app is available from the Android Market.
