These 12 Mistakes Make Your App Feel CHEAP

Summary

The video argues that small UX and UI details can make an app feel either careless and “cheap” or polished and trustworthy. The common thread is that cheap-feeling apps leave users uncertain or out of control, while premium-feeling apps clearly guide them through each step.

The 12 Mistakes

1. Missing legal copy: Terms-related text near sign-up or other actions helps establish trust when users provide personal information.
2. No way out of an empty state: Give users an alternative route so they don’t feel stuck at a dead end.
3. Missing helper text: Briefly explain what an action does or where information will appear to prevent hesitation.
4. No success state: Confirm when an action is complete with a message, screen, or animation.
5. Generic error messages: Explain specifically what went wrong and how to fix it, rather than saying only “something went wrong.”
6. Basic spinners: Show what is happening during a wait. Changing status text, animations, or skeleton loaders can make the wait feel clearer and shorter.
7. Asking for information the app already knows: Remember users’ details instead of repeatedly requesting the same information.
8. Mismatched icons: Keep icon styles consistent in stroke weight, fill, color, and opacity to make the interface feel cohesive.
9. Vague button copy: Use clear, concise labels that state the action, such as “Confirm purchase” rather than “Let’s go.”
10. Unnecessary permissions: Request access only when it’s relevant to the user’s current task, after the app has provided value.
11. Filters that are difficult to reset: Offer a simple “Clear all filters” option rather than requiring users to undo each selection.
12. Truncating important text: Don’t hide information users need to make decisions or force them to take extra steps to find it.

The presenter recommends focusing on clarity, trust, and user control. These improvements are generally small but can have a noticeable impact on how intentional and polished an app feels.

Referenced Resource

The presenter recommends Mobbin for design inspiration and mentions looking at apps such as Uber and Headspace.

Main Speaker and Source

Wyatt Feaster presents UX and app-design guidance. Mobbin is referenced as a source of design examples.