Boku – Services, pricing, comparisons and reviews

Last updated on 19 September 2023

Boku is a leading mobile payment solution company that specialises in facilitating mobile payments directly through a user’s mobile phone billing or credit. Especially popular in the online gaming and streaming industry, Boku has helped numerous businesses in the UK and beyond increase their transaction rates by offering a more direct and straightforward payment method to their customers.

Compare options for taking card payments
Video: Card readers and payment machines explained

Headline numbers

  • Over 14 billion users reached globally.
  • Present in more than 60 countries.
  • Collaborations with over 173 mobile network operators.
  • Processes millions of daily transactions.

Key information

AttributeDetails
Founded2009, San Francisco, CA, USA
Website URLwww.boku.com
Phone Number+44 20 8638 0822
FSCS Protected?No
FCA Regulated?No

Boku fees and charges

Please note that the exact fees associated with Boku’s services can vary based on various factors, such as region, volume, and specific agreements. The following table provides a generalised overview. For accurate figures, businesses should contact Boku directly.

Fee CategoryCarrier BillingBoku Authenticate, Detect, & ResolveMobile WalletsBoku ExtendBoku Direct
Product NameCarrier BillingAuthenticate, Detect, & ResolveMobile WalletsBoku ExtendBoku Direct
Contract Length12 months12 months12 months12 months12 months
Consumer Card FeesN/AN/AVaries*N/AN/A
Business Card FeesN/AN/AVaries*N/AN/A
CNP Fees2.5%2.0%2.5%2.5%2.0%
Minimum Monthly Charge£100£100£100£100£100
Refund Fees£5£5£5£5£5
Chargebacks£15£15£15£15£15
Replacement DeviceN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A
PCI ComplianceIncludedIncludedIncludedIncludedIncluded
Early Termination£500£500£500£500£500
Boku fees and charges

* The fees for Mobile Wallets can vary greatly depending on the specific wallet provider and region.

Pros and cons of Boku

Pros:

  • Enables businesses to reach billions of users without the need for a bank account or credit card.
  • Straightforward and user-friendly payment process.
  • Safe and secure, as it doesn’t require sharing sensitive banking details.
  • High conversion rates.

Cons:

  • Some users may not be comfortable with payments via phone bills.
  • Limits on transaction amounts, compared to other payment methods.
  • Not FSCS protected or FCA regulated.

Boku products and services

Boku offers a diverse range of mobile payment solutions designed to cater to various industries and demands. Here’s a detailed insight into some of their key products and services:

Carrier Billing

  • Description: This is Boku’s flagship offering, allowing users to make online purchases and add the payment to their mobile phone bill. It’s a hassle-free solution, especially for users without a credit card or even a bank account. Accessible in over 60 countries, the service has tie-ups with major mobile networks worldwide.
  • Costs and Fees: These can vary based on the merchant, the transaction, and the region. Boku typically charges merchants a percentage of the transaction amount.

Boku Authenticate, Detect, and Resolve

  • Description: This suite of identity and authentication products is designed to offer a frictionless user experience. While Authenticate ensures easy user verification, Detect helps identify potential fraud, and Resolve assists in ironing out any issues users might face. By leveraging mobile number data, this suite aids in reducing fraud, increasing conversions, and streamlining the user identification process.
  • Costs and Fees: Depending on the service and volume, costs can vary.

Mobile Wallets

  • Description: Recognising the growing trend of mobile wallets, Boku has forged partnerships with many significant mobile wallet providers. This ensures quicker and more direct transactions for users. Collaborations with the likes of Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, among others, extend Boku’s reach to a vast audience.
  • Costs and Fees: Charges can differ by region and by the specific wallet provider involved.

Boku Extend

  • Description: Boku Extend broadens the carrier billing offering to new platforms like Smart TVs and gaming consoles, helping businesses expand their reach. Targeted for platforms beyond mobile, catering to a diverse range of digital goods and services.
  • Costs and Fees: As with other Boku services, costs can vary depending on the specific use-case and volume.

Boku Direct

  • Description: A solution for businesses that want to integrate Boku’s payment mechanism more deeply into their platforms. It offers features like subscription renewals and single-click purchases. Designed for a more immersive user experience, Direct provides an uninterrupted flow, resulting in higher user retention.
  • Costs and Fees: Depending on the depth of integration and transaction volume, pricing can differ.

Businesses looking to incorporate Boku’s services should reach out to them directly for a tailored solution. Given the flexibility and range of services on offer, Boku can provide a solution that aligns closely with the business’s specific requirements.

Boku reviews

SourceRating
TrustPilot4.1/5
Google Reviews3.8/5
Reviews.io4.2/5
Average4.0/5
Boku reviews

Alternatives to Boku

Additional considerations

While Boku offers a unique approach to online payments, especially for those who may not have access to traditional banking systems, businesses should evaluate the demographic they cater to.

Understanding the preferences of their audience will enable them to make an informed decision on whether incorporating Boku will be beneficial.

Boku company history

Founded in 2009, Boku started with the vision of creating a bank for the mobile age.

Recognising the increasing reliance on mobile phones and the potential they held in streamlining online transactions, Boku quickly expanded its reach.

Over the years, Boku has built partnerships with major mobile operators and platforms, ensuring a global presence.

FAQ

Is Boku safe for my customers?

Yes, Boku provides a safe payment alternative without sharing sensitive bank details.

Are there transaction limits with Boku?

Yes, Boku has limits that vary based on the country and the mobile network operator.

How quickly are payments processed via Boku?

Payments are typically processed instantly, but the billing might appear on the user’s mobile bill at the end of the billing cycle.

Do my customers need to register for a Boku account?

No, customers can make payments directly using their mobile number without any separate registration.

Is there a dispute or refund process for Boku?

Yes, customers can contact Boku’s customer support for disputes and potential refunds.

Are there any setup fees for businesses using Boku?

Businesses should contact Boku directly for a tailored quote, as fees can vary based on volume and specific needs.

How does Boku handle currency conversion?

Boku handles currency conversion automatically, ensuring that the correct amount is billed in the local currency of the user.

Is it possible to integrate Boku with my ecommerce platform?

Yes, Boku offers APIs and plugins for major ecommerce platforms for seamless integration.

Do I need to sign a long-term contract to use Boku?

Contract terms can vary, and it’s best to discuss your specific needs with Boku’s sales team.

How does Boku handle security and fraud prevention?

Boku has robust security measures in place and offers products like Boku Authenticate to help prevent fraud.

Is Boku GDPR compliant?

Yes, Boku complies with GDPR and other major data protection regulations.

Can I offer Boku as an additional payment method alongside others?

Absolutely, Boku can be added as one of several payment options for your customers.

How do Boku payouts to my business work?

Boku will transfer funds to your designated bank account, typically on a monthly basis or as agreed upon.

What type of support does Boku offer to businesses?

Boku offers dedicated account managers and 24/7 customer support to assist businesses.

Can I set a maximum transaction amount for my customers?

While Boku has its own limits, you can further set transaction caps for your customers if desired.

Is Boku suitable for all types of businesses?

Boku is especially popular with online gaming, streaming, and digital goods businesses, but it can be beneficial for various online merchants.

How does Boku handle recurring payments or subscriptions?

Boku can manage recurring payments, making it easier for businesses to set up subscription models.

Is there any user age restriction for Boku payments?

While Boku itself doesn’t impose age restrictions, mobile network operators might have age-related policies. It’s also crucial to ensure that services or products sold are age-appropriate.

Do I receive notifications of successful transactions with Boku?

Yes, Boku provides real-time notifications and detailed reports on all transactions.

Can I customise the Boku payment interface for my brand?

Boku offers a level of customisation to ensure the payment interface aligns with your brand aesthetics.

Please note that while these FAQs provide a general overview, it’s always essential to contact Boku directly or refer to their official resources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Compare ⓘ

Reviewed by , Managing Director

Important

Business Financed provides general information, but not financial advice. Always speak to a qualified expert to get personalised advice for your business.

Advertising disclosure

We may be paid a commission by our FCA-regulated partners when you click on the links in our articles. This does not affect our independent journalism.

Learn more

You can learn more about how this website operates by clicking here.