Providing market intelligence for more than 35 years

More than 25 percent of U.S. smartphone owners use payment apps at least once a month, according to recent data compiled by Dallas-based research and consulting firm Parks Associates.

The firm said more than three million retailers now accept popular payment services like Apple Pay and Android Pay, but its data indicates consumers currently prefer retailer-specific applications.

"To be frank, I think this has a lot to do with consumers' loyalty to certain brands," said Harry Wang, director of mobile and health research with Parks Associates. "If you have a strong loyalty to the brands, you're more likely to shop at the place and you want to experience the brand in every angle possible, and the payment is part of the experience. Especially if a retailer includes loyalty cards and discounts to consumers that provide more incentive to use those applications."

From the article "Experts: Wal-Mart Pay Needs Perks" by Robbie Neiswanger.

Previously In The News

August Adds Wireless HD Video Doorbell to Smart Home Line

The wireless chime included with View also separates the doorbell from the pack. "A chime is usually an add-on extra, something you'd have to pay extra for," said Brad Russell, an analyst at Dallas...

AR in Harry Potter Game Is Next Best Thing to Real Magic

"Since Pokémon Go first launched in 2016, we've seen a number of other AR games launch as well," said Kristen Hanich, senior analyst at Parks Associates. However, none have risen to the same level...

Three Reasons Why Verizon Would Be A Good Suitor For Yahoo

Yahoo still commands a huge audience. Nearly 1 billion people visit a Yahoo website every month. While content is a risky business, analysts believe it's a way to keep customers engaged. "Verizo...

Roku IPO: Shares jump 68% as investors bet the firm can fend off Amazon, Apple and Google

Analysts say Roku has shown great upside by diversifying its revenue away from chiefly hardware to partnerships and advertising over its platform. “Over the past two-and-a-half years, Roku has expa...