The expected 400 million mobile banking users globally by 2013 equates to double the number of users this year. Juniper’s “Mobile Banking Technology Strategies Survey” shows that banks are laying the foundations for this rapid user take-up by rolling out SMS, mobile Web and application-based mobile banking services, providing additional channel choices to customers.

“Juniper’s survey found that banks in all regions are becoming increasingly innovative in their service offerings and this is providing impetus for user growth,” said Howard Wilcox, senior analyst at Juniper, Hampshire, Britain.

“Mobile is becoming a ‘must-have’ channel for banks,” he said. “Some banks we believe though are limiting their options by offering insufficient mobile channel options for users, whilst others have yet to deploy mobile services at all.”

On the other hand, there are many banks in Europe, North America and the Far East that are actively delivering and promoting their services by significant above-the-line marketing campaigns.

The report surveyed 77 banks across all regions, which determined the popularity of SMS, mobile browser, iPhone, Android and Java applications.

Additionally the Juniper study presents insight from its unique Global Mobile Banking Vendor Positioning Matrix of 21 vendors.

According to Juniper, more than 80 percent of banks currently offer some form of mobile banking.

Juniper predicts that the Far East and China will be the regions with the highest number of users in 2015.

Additionally, demand for on-the-move bank balance enquiries and advanced alerts will fuel SMS messaging growth.

The report stresses the importance of additive banking, which adds further choices or distribution channels for banks to serve their customers and make the banking experience more convenient for existing customers.

“For the user it’s about three things: convenience, convenience and convenience,” Mr. Wilcox said. “The mobile device is almost always with you, and if you organize your life with your mobile, then why not your finances too?

“For example, people can receive account alerts and reminders straight away and take action immediately if necessary – say to top up an account or pay a bill,” he said. “With apps, the whole process is made so much simpler too.”