Halifax has launched its mobile banking app, which allows users to access and manage money while on the go, locate a nearby branch and find an ATM.

The app is available on mobiles using the four most popular smartphone platforms: Apple, Android, Blackberry and Nokia.

Current research shows that 36% of UK consumers use a smartphone compared to 9% two years ago.

18% of smartphone owners prefer using apps rather than internet browsers on their handsets, Halifax says.

The new app not only allows Halifax internet banking customers to log on to their accounts and make transactions, but allows users of the app to find their nearest Halifax branch, Halifax ATM or any of the 72,000 LINK ATMs belonging to any bank across the UK.

David Nicholson, group director, Halifax Community Bank said: “The use of mobile apps to assist day-to-day activities – like banking – on the go is more popular than ever