Starbucks Rewards App: A complete UX/UI redesign
The Starbucks Rewards app was outdated, buggy, and caused frustration instead of convenience. My goal? To transform it into an app that’s functional, intuitive, and—most importantly—fun to use. From refreshing the branding to redesigning the user experience, I created a modern app that rewards users and supports Starbucks' smooth purchase process.
Problem
The old Starbucks app had more problems than perks:
Frustrating UX: Users struggled with navigation and buggy loops.
Lack of visibility: Many Starbucks customers didn’t even know the app existed.
Missing features: Users wanted the ability to order drinks and pay through the app, but it wasn’t there.
Simply put, the app turned a smooth in-store experience into a frustrating digital one. It wasn’t engaging, rewarding, or intuitive.
Solution
To redesign the app, I started with research to understand the key pain points and opportunities:
Competitor Analysis: I analysed similar apps to identify what worked and what didn’t.
User surveys & interviews: I asked users what frustrated them and what they wanted to see.
With this foundation, I moved into wireframing and visual exploration. The redesign included:
A refreshed visual identity, including an updated logo and promotional mockups.
Low-fidelity wireframes to fix navigation and layout.
High-fidelity wireframes to bring the new UI to life.
Turning frustration into functionality
The redesign addressed all the major pain points and introduced features users wanted most.
Key improvements included:
Improved navigation: Users can now move through the app effortlessly.
Ordering and payments: Users can order drinks, customise them, and pay directly.
New reward system: The updated rewards screen motivates users to keep coming back.
To make it fun, I added a handwritten names feature, so users can personalise their orders—replicating Starbucks' signature experience.
A modern app that works
The final app redesign offers an experience that’s both functional and delightful:
Streamlined user flow: Users can now navigate and complete tasks effortlessly.
Increased functionality: Ordering, paying, and tracking rewards is simple and intuitive.
Enhanced engagement: The updated rewards and personalised features keep users coming back.
By solving core usability issues and refreshing the visual design, I turned a frustrating app into a tool that matches Starbucks' quality and brand.
What I learned
This project was more than a simple redesign—it was about understanding user frustration and transforming it into satisfaction.
What I learned along the way:
Research matters: Even basic surveys and competitor analysis can reveal key opportunities.
Small details go a long way: Features like handwritten names added a personal touch that users love.
Balancing fun and functionality: A great app is both enjoyable to use and solves real problems.
The redesigned Starbucks Rewards app is not just functional—it’s a tool users can rely on and enjoy every day.