Frequently Asked Questions

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a real-time communication protocol used on mobile networks. Users dial codes like *123# to access services like mobile banking, airtime top-up, or information services. Unlike SMS, USSD works without internet and provides instant two-way communication.

Use a no-code USSD builder like UFlow. Create your USSD menu visually with drag-and-drop tools, add payment integrations (M-PESA, Airtel Money), connect APIs, and deploy in minutes. No programming required. UFlow provides templates for banking, SACCOs, agriculture, and more. Start with a free account and build your first USSD app in under 10 minutes.

UFlow is the leading no-code USSD builder in Kenya, designed specifically for Kenyan businesses. It offers M-PESA integration, local support, KES pricing, and templates for SACCOs, mobile banking, and agriculture. With drag-and-drop interface and real-time testing, UFlow makes it easy for businesses to create and deploy USSD apps without technical expertise.

Building a USSD app traditionally costs $5,000-$20,000+ with custom development. With UFlow's no-code platform, you can build and deploy USSD apps starting from free (for testing) or KES 5,000/month for production use. No upfront development costs, no coding required, and you can launch in days instead of months.

UFlow provides built-in M-PESA integration for USSD apps. Simply add a payment node in your flow, configure your M-PESA API credentials (from Safaricom Developer Portal), and set payment amounts. UFlow handles the API calls, payment confirmations, and error handling. No coding required. See our step-by-step M-PESA integration guide for details.

USSD apps are perfect for mobile banking (balance checks, transfers), SACCO member services (account access, loan applications), agriculture (market prices, weather), healthcare (appointment booking), education (results, enrollment), and customer service (support, information). USSD works on all phones without internet, making it ideal for reaching users in areas with limited connectivity.

With traditional development, building a USSD app takes 2-6 months. Using UFlow's no-code platform, you can build and deploy a USSD app in 10 minutes to 2 hours, depending on complexity. Start with a template, customize it, test it, and deploy—all without writing code.

No, USSD does not require internet. USSD works on any mobile phone using the cellular network (GSM). Users simply dial a code like *123# and interact with the service through text menus. This makes USSD ideal for areas with limited internet connectivity.

USSD is real-time, interactive communication (like a phone call) where users dial *123# and navigate menus immediately. SMS is one-way messaging that requires internet for delivery. USSD is faster, works without internet, and provides instant two-way interaction. SMS is better for notifications, while USSD is ideal for interactive services like banking.

UFlow includes a built-in USSD simulator that lets you test your app in real-time. Enter your phone number, simulate user interactions, and see exactly how your USSD flow works. Test payment integrations, API calls, and user journeys before going live. No need for actual USSD codes during development.