Technology10.05.2012

22seven leaves beta, promises mobile apps

By Jan Vermeulen

22seven, the personal financial management tool that united South Africa’s banks in their opposition of it, announced that it is leaving beta today (10 May 2012).

The service will cost R70 per month to use from here on, with the first 30 days free, according to the new website.

“We’ve used the last three months to test our service, technically, practically and philosophically,” 22seven said in an e-mail to beta testers.

The e-mail also announced the following changes to the service:

New design. Our site has had a makeover. We think it’s lighter, brighter and simpler. The homepage has some new stuff for you to check out, and you can now contribute to Conversations without having to log in.

A different look at balances. Banks like to show us our “available balance”. But money we can spend often isn’t our money. Once you’ve logged in, you’ll be able to see exactly how much money you have, already owe and can borrow.

A perspective on your money over time. 22seven’s tools haven’t changed, but the way we’ve presented them has: they’re arranged in a way that helps you look at what you did, are doing and can do with your money. It’s a small but significant shift that helps you use your past to explore choices and changes right now, while being more mindful of how you want to use your money in the future.

“These changes and additions, especially the last two, are designed to show you your money differently, and to help you do more with it,” 22seven said.

Click to enlarge 22seven new interface

22seven's new interface

In addition to a revamped site, new logo, and new features, 22seven also confirmed plans for mobile applications.

Existing users are presented with a new privacy policy and terms and conditions with 22seven specifically pointing out that these make provision for future mobile apps.

The company also said that leaving beta doesn’t mean that 22seven is a finished product.

“We’ve been building it for three years, but this is just a beginning, and there’s lots to come,” 22seven said.