10 Best Mobile Onboarding Examples to Inspire Your Flow

Learning from the Best

To create the best mobile app onboarding experience, it helps to study those who have already mastered it. We've curated a list of mobile onboarding examples that stand out in 2025. These apps have cracked the code on user activation and retention. They understand that onboarding is a continuous process, not a one-time event.

1. Duolingo: Gamification Masterclass

Duolingo gets you using the product immediately. Their mobile app onboarding examples often feature a "learn by doing" approach, asking you to translate a simple sentence before you even sign up. This "gradual engagement" allows users to feel smart and successful before they commit to creating an account. They also use a mascot (Duo) to build an emotional connection.

2. Headspace: Setting the Mood

Headspace uses calming visuals and a simple question about your goals (e.g., "Sleep better," "Reduce stress") to personalize the onboarding flow instantly. By acknowledging the user's specific pain point right away, they build an emotional connection. The animations are smooth and the pacing is deliberate, matching the app's brand identity. They prove that onboarding doesn't have to be fast; it has to be relevant.

3. Onboardsy: The Developer Experience

Yes, we're biased, but our own mobile onboarding examples showcase how dynamic, server-driven UI can adapt to user behavior in real-time. Our flow demonstrates the power of OTA updates, showing developers how they can change text and images without a new app release. We practice what we preach.

4. Slack: Network Effects

Slack's mobile onboarding focuses on team collaboration. It makes inviting colleagues incredibly easy, knowing that the app's value multiplies with every team member added. Their flow is a masterclass in reducing the friction of network effects. They ask for your workspace URL immediately, assuming you are joining an existing team, which covers 90% of their mobile use case.

5. TikTok: Algorithm Training

TikTok throws you straight into the content. There is almost no friction. They train the algorithm by observing your first few swipes rather than asking a long list of preference questions. This "implicit onboarding" is a powerful strategy for content-first apps. They don't ask "What do you like?"; they watch what you watch.

6. Robinhood: Trust and Security

Fintech apps face a unique challenge: they need a lot of sensitive data (SSN, Bank Info). Robinhood breaks this down into bite-sized chunks, explaining *why* they need each piece of info. Their design is clean, using ample whitespace to reduce anxiety.

What These Examples Have in Common

Analyzing these mobile app onboarding examples reveals a common trend: personalization and speed are key. None of them force the user to read a manual. They all focus on getting the user to the core utility of the app within seconds. They also use positive reinforcement—celebrating small wins like completing a profile or finishing a first task. For a deeper technical breakdown, check out our article on designing the perfect onboarding flow.