PayPal Recurring Crypto Buys
Task
Create an end-to-end experience for app and web that allows users to schedule crypto purchases.
The Challenge
PayPal only offered a way to buy crypto instantly. We were missing a key feature that modern enthusiasts expected: automation.
Users had no way to “set and forget” their crypto purchase. They couldn’t dollar-cost average (DCA) easily, nor could they schedule a one-time purchase for a future date. This created a gap in our product offering, limiting user retention and putting us behind competitors in the space.
Since this product was going to be launched in three countries, we had to navigate a complex web of international regulations and ensure the experience felt secure, transparent, and flexible for users across the US, UK, and Luxembourg, each with its own financial and legal nuances.
My Thought Process
A big part of my strategy was to educate users without overwhelming them. I needed to work closely with my UX design and research partners to create a clear experience and avoid too much hand-holding.
The flows and microcopy also had to inform users that they are in complete control and can edit or cancel their scheduled purchases.
I also had to translate complex legal requirements into simple, user-friendly terms. This meant ensuring disclaimers about volatility were present and clear without causing unnecessary fear, and that all regulatory disclaimers were accurately and consistently communicated across different languages and legal frameworks.
Early on, I recognized that the calendar scheduling logic and interface we were building had applications far beyond crypto. I advocated for and helped design a content system with neutral, modular language. This strategic approach meant our work could be easily adapted and “lent” to other product teams for scheduling things like recurring payments or scheduled bill pay, amplifying the impact of our initial investment.
The Outcome
The launch directly contributed to increased platform revenue and engagement. It positioned our company as a forward-thinking leader in the accessible crypto space, attracting both new and seasoned investors looking for smart, automated tools.
The calendar scheduling was successfully repurposed for other financial products on PayPal and Venmo, saving countless hours of design and development time and ensuring a consistent, familiar experience for our users across the platform.
This project highlighted the power of content design to not only shape a user experience but also to drive business strategy, ensure international compliance, and create scalable systems that benefit an entire organization.
