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OCBC Unveils Senior-Friendly digital Banking App with Smart Text Resizing
Singapore, July 3, 2025 – OCBC Bank is enhancing its digital banking app with a new “smart text resizing” feature, designed to make the platform more accessible to senior citizens and individuals with visual impairments.This user-friendly update, available in both English and Mandarin, enables users to adjust the text size for easier readability, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in digital financial services.
Enhancing Digital Accessibility for an Aging population
With Singapore’s rapidly aging population, OCBC recognizes the importance of catering to the specific needs of older adults. The “smart text resizing” feature addresses the challenges many seniors face when using digital banking apps,where small default text sizes can lead to errors and frustration. The Bank anticipates launching this feature by the end of July.
Did You Know? Singapore is projected to become a “super-aged” society by 2026, with more than 21% of its population aged 65 and above.
Customizable Text Sizes for improved Readability
Unlike most banking apps that rely on system-wide phone settings, OCBC’s solution adapts the app’s interface to the customer’s preferred text size and device screen dimensions.This personalized approach allows users to select from seven different text sizes. This ensures optimal readability and ease of use, irrespective of their visual acuity.
Extensive redesign for Enhanced User Experience
The implementation of the “smart text resizing” feature involved a year-long effort by over 100 engineers, designers, and product managers. This extensive redesign has impacted hundreds of app screens. The updates prioritize frequently used functions like account balance details,money Lock,and Scan and Pay.
Currently, 70% of the app’s screens have been updated, with the remaining screens scheduled for completion by the first half of next year. The bank’s staff observed that many older customers struggled with the default text size and feared making mistakes while banking online.
Commitment to Inclusivity: OCBC’s Broader Initiatives
Mr. Sunny Quek, Head of Global Consumer Financial Services at OCBC, emphasized the bank’s commitment to inclusivity. He noted that nearly 40% of OCBC’s digitally active customers are aged 60 and above. He stated that designing for inclusivity is not just a nice-to-have – it’s a necessity.
“Smart text resizing may seem like a simple feature, but it is the latest in a string of meaningful changes in how we approach inclusive banking,” Mr. Quek said. He also hopes the feature will encourage seniors who are hesitant to embrace digital banking to give it another try.
Beyond the text resizing feature, OCBC provides additional support through Care Ambassadors, who are fluent in at least two dialects, at select branches. Moreover, the bank continues to keep some branches open on Sundays, reaffirming its commitment to accessible banking for all.
How critically important is digital inclusivity for the elderly in today’s society?
OCBC SeniorCare: A $2 Million Investment in Aging Well
The “smart text resizing” initiative falls under the OCBC SeniorCare program, a $2 million initiative launched earlier in 2025. The program aims to empower over 180,000 seniors to age well. it also complements other support efforts. This includes the hiring of OCBC Care Ambassadors fluent in dialects to assist seniors at selected branches.
The Future of Digital Banking Accessibility
OCBC’s investment in senior-friendly digital banking sets a new standard for the industry. By prioritizing the needs of older adults, the bank not only enhances the user experience but also promotes greater financial inclusion. It ensures that all customers, regardless of age or ability, can confidently manage their finances in the digital age.
What other features coudl banks implement to better assist seniors with digital banking?
Evergreen Insights: The Growing Importance of Digital Accessibility
As technology continues to advance,ensuring digital accessibility becomes increasingly crucial. Banks and financial institutions must adapt their services to meet the diverse needs of their customer base. This includes not only seniors but also individuals with disabilities and those who may lack digital literacy.
Pro Tip: Conduct user testing with diverse age groups to identify pain points and areas for improvement in your digital banking interfaces.
Here’s a comparison of features promoting digital accessibility:
| Feature | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Text Resizing | Allows users to adjust text size for better readability. | Improves readability for seniors and visually impaired users. |
| Voice Banking | Enables users to perform banking tasks using voice commands. | Provides hands-free access for users with mobility issues. |
| High Contrast mode | Offers a high contrast display option for improved visibility. | Enhances visibility for users with low vision. |
| Screen Reader Compatibility | Ensures compatibility with screen reader software. | Enables blind and visually impaired users to access banking facts. |
FAQ: OCBC’s Digital Banking App and Accessibility
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What is OCBC Doing to Make Digital Banking More Accessible?
OCBC is launching a smart text resizing feature in its digital banking app to make it more senior-friendly and easier to read for users with visual impairments. This initiative allows users to choose from seven different text sizes.
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